Engaging hearts, equipping minds

Sketch by a Malaysian Artist

Passing by the university corridor, I saw some bright mask-free sweet faces smiling at me and enquiring how I was doing ?! I could not recognize the faces very well as the last two years of covid phase were basically virtual interactions with my students and some offline classes with face-masks. Yet those bright eyes looking at me filled with gratitude and those endearing smiles really warmed my heart. The day was made today. These are small but hugely satisfying rewards for me. My teaching job at the University maynot pay as high as other white collar jobs, yet keeps me motivated, young at heart and relatively stress free. In another workshop meet the other day, I met a former student of mine who made me smile broadly by telling me how much she enjoyed my way of teaching the technicalities of my subjects. She also added that a couple of her classmates went for research studies and teaching careers, having got inspired by me. These compliments are like precious little jewels to be secured forever deep in the heart !

Expectations hurt, hence do not expect but give your best is what people say. But heart of hearts, dont we want recognition occasionally for our good deeds and intentions? At times, I do want to feel appreciated with some glad glances and praiseworthy inquisitiveness from my students, because that's when I feel more inspired to do better every time I go out there to teach those young adults shaping the world of tomorrow's! After all, a little appreciation goes a long way!