Sunday, February 08, 2004 @1:40 PM
Yes yes, I'm still alive. Haven't vanished from the surface of the Earth unlike some people. You guys know who you are. So, do please let me know that you're still alive! =)
Sometimes when our roles are reversed, it's truly a whole new experience. Shocking, astounding and perhaps extremely refreshing. Teaching has an amazing experience. One that can't be simply put into words. Sometimes, when I get terrible little brats I'll always remember having that conversation with Ms Leong saying that it's kind of like "retribution" since we were as naughty when we were students. But I was never so mischievous and naughty. At least I don't think I was. I think I have been pretty obedient, nice and angelic when I was a student. Wasn't I? =)
The little devils kill my niceness and totally break my limits. And thus end up screaming at them. Of which I think a lot of you out there can't imagine me doing that. But I think some things come naturally when you're teaching. Like taking one of my student's existence out of the class when he's unforgivably rude. He still doesn't exist in my life up till this point of time. You're not nice to me hence I'm not nice to you. Don't say I haven't given you any chance because I have. Until you show any repentance, I will still not show you any respect.
Sounds mean? Well, he asked for it. Thank God there are little angels who surround me too. They are the ones who make me want to stay. Who brighten up my day. They're friendly towards me, yet at the same time showing me lots of respect. Three cheers to you guys! And of course, there are students who take me like their good friend, trying to ask me out. And believe it or not, they're only sec 2s! "Miss Ong, give me your number leh..."
"Give me one good reason why I should since I'll be seeing you everyday in school. Wait till it's my last day then you come and hunt me down. Perhaps I'll give you my number."
I smile and then walk away. I'm overjoyed that they enjoy my lessons, and really honoured to have such delightful kids. But their "straightforwardness" comes too much as a shock at times.
There was once I went to sit in for this teacher because I had a free period and the teacher had something urgent to attend to. And yes, I teach that class music. Of course they did the usual "Good morning Miss Ong". Before I can settle down to mark my stuff, this whole group of boys came over to the teacher's table and started talking to me. Sometimes I wonder, I must have an extremely friendly face. And the conversation was about anything under the sun like "How old are you?"
I told them I was 30. Thee obviously didn't believe. I refused to say and they say they'll keep guessing. Since they didn't hit the right age, they still have no idea how old I am.
My sec4 classes are extremely fun to teach. Love them so much. Teaching English is so fun. Though I think marking English isn't that fun. Probably one of the most tedious subjects to mark. But anyhow, my sec4 kids make everything bright and cheery. So I'm happy. =)
I think I should talk about the angels more than the brats. Makes me feel better too. I think I'll miss the school when I leave. Oh yes, now I truly know what goes on in the Staff Room when all the teachers chill and go bananas. I'm thankful for the experience and for meeting so many other people.
A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.
--Erin Majors
