A long due post. And January is reassuring (:

This is officially week 5 into the new term. I am feeling relaxed, and more in charge this term. Experience does make the difference. So much have taken place over the past couple of weeks and I am happy and contended to be where I am today, crediting God for all the things He pushed me through.

And my students have come a long way as well, especially my students in my Form class. This is my second year with these children, and they had been really patient with me. I came in trying to be their boss, telling them that they shoould be doctors and scientists, when they actually want no such things. I belittled them and I imposed myself on them, dictating their actions and their speech.

I used to come into class bitter every day. They were irritated even though they tried their best to be compliant. They accomplished the impossible. From zeros, to a whooping 96% passing rate in English. I am really grateful of these kids of mine because their success gave me a little bit more courage, and they inspired me.

This year as I stepped into class, I sensed the difference. The difference comes from their affirmation and their confidence in me. The kind of feeling I suspect mothers get from the kids: they know that you cared and you love them amidst all the scolding and disciplining. That particular moment was extremely moving for me.

And then, they started to rebel again. Ah well, no one said anything about a mother being an easy responsibilty. But I finally feel appreciated, and that what I am doing is actually fruitful and meaningful.

There are more challenges this year:

• I am handling two exam classes this year
• I am the head of the English Panel (even though I did not contribute much)
• Facing a whole different set of students in Form 4
• Confronting more emotional struggles in terms of my relationship with myself
• Different family problems among the students
• My community project
• Trying to make an impact before leaving
• Learning from the mistakes I made last year

It is going to be a great year if I let God into more of my decisions and if I try to listen to Him.

Anything and everything is possible, and that, knowing that so much could be done, makes it so much more stressful.

On a lighter note, watch this space because soon, very soon, I am going to show off our new classroom and its beautiful new coat of paint (it's the brilliant smurf-blue! gosh!) and classroom decor.

This piture was taken in the third week in January. I was holding one Physical Education class at that time. (I know, right? PE? Me?!)

So, it is a good thing I am no longer teaching PE (thank goodness) because instead of getting my girls to exercise, I let them do things like this (see below).

The lovely girls in Form 2 were so excited and told me that they must show me this.