One of the things that I fear doing most is giving a speech in front of many people. I can talk the whole day in front of the kids and do silly things with them, oblivious to whoever is watching. But to speak on stage to an adult audience...oh please! I abhor it! I know it’s ironic because I’m a teacher. I remember telling my coordinator back when I was still teaching in the Philippines, when asked to emcee for a school event, that I’d rather sing or dance, than speak on stage, in front of many people.
So I guess you wouldn’t be surprised that it scared the hell out of me (pardon the choice of words!), when I was asked to give a speech today, being the head teacher of the graduating students of our school. Oh, and as if giving speech itself is not nerve-wracking enough for me, I was just informed about it, like, two hours before we were supposed to be at the venue! All I could mutter was, darn it!
And so left without a choice, I immediately grabbed a pen and a scratch paper, and started writing. Had I been informed earlier, I would have at least googled sample speeches, just to get an idea of what I should tell the graduates, the other students, and all their parents. Because FYI, I was one of those who weren’t listening when speeches were delivered during my elementary, high school and college graduations. And so in-between lunch and dressing up for the occasion, I tried my best to look back to the months that have passed, and see whether there is something worth-mentioning. I’m kidding! Of course there’s a lot to say! It’s just that I can’t think properly when I’m nervous, with knees trembling, heart pounding and stomach aching (for sure you know the feeling!).
Hours passed just like that, and I was able to finish writing. I am just glad that despite the sweat in every corner of my body, and nervousness consuming me, I didn’t pass out on stage. Actually, what made me feel really good up there was the sight of parents applauding, smiling and crying. All those washed away my fears and anxieties that very moment. Let me share with you, my dear friends, the first ever speech I delivered as the head teacher of the graduating students of 2010.
***
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Today marks a new beginning for the graduating students of 2010 of Rainbow Kiddie Academy.
I can say that it has been a very fulfilling year, not only for the kids, but most of all, for us teachers too, especially for me. Looking back, to be honest with you, when I first stepped into the classroom, I was really really excited, but at the same time, really really nervous also of what these seemingly innocent little kids could do to me. True enough, every single day in the classroom is a new experience for me and my fellow teachers. There had been good and bad days, and the in-betweens, but what keeps me loving my work and what makes me look forward to going to work each day also, are the valuable lessons that I will learn from MY kids...OUR kids. Yes, I’m sorry parents, but they’re mine, Ms. Carmen’s and Ms. Ana’s, 8-6pm, Mondays thru Fridays. They’re OUR babies.
These kids really are smart and full of potentials. It is our duty now, teachers and parents, to help unlock those potentials and help them be productive and responsible, not only as children, but most of all, productive and responsible citizens of this country. They may be just kids and they may be learning what we think are just simple things such as tying their shoe laces, holding a pencil or going potty on their own, but all these are essential in their development.
Indeed, it wasn’t an easy work for all of us, including you, parents. But I am very very proud to say that I have been a witness...I have seen great improvements in all of these kids. No matter how challenging and hard it was to deal with all of them all at once, seeing them learn and change for the better bring so much fulfillment already. And for sure, you parents are even prouder than I already am. So today, I give out this invitation to everyone...Let’s continue to work together for the cause of these children.
Once again, congratulations to the future of this country, the graduating students of 2010. God bless you all in all your endeavors.
***
For some reasons, I felt good after I delivered my speech. It felt even better to be told by the parents afterwards, that with what I said, I made the school look beautiful in their eyes. And it brought me to high heavens to hear that it’s us, teachers, who make them want to enroll their kids again next school year (if not for the tuition fee which is too much for them). Well, it doesn’t matter anymore if they’re just trying to cajole or sweet-talk me into giving their kids more awards next time. What matters most is that, I was able to tell them what I really feel. My co-teacher even asked me if I really meant it when I said I look forward to going to work each day. Of course I do! Weird as it may seem, but I really do.
Come to think of it, had I been told earlier that I’ll be giving a speech, I would have borrowed other people’s words, just to make it formal and pleasing to my listeners’ ears. But truly, there’s really nothing even better than to speak from the heart. I’m just glad I did. But next time, I’d appreciate it, I guess, if I would be told in advance. Better yet, I’d really appreciate it, and I’d be fine, if I wouldn’t be asked anymore to do any talking.
Ms. Jam
Head Teacher
Rainbow Kiddie Academy
Yellow Room
S.Y. 2009-2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
How do you know if it's a "NO"?
I pray to God for anything and everything. Simple or complicated, I know God doesn’t mind. He wants it better when we run to Him for help and for comfort.
Sometimes, some of the things that happen in our life are contrary to what we’ve been praying for. When things don’t turn out the way we want them to, should we still be persistent in prayer? When and how do we know if God is already saying... “NO...NO...NO”?
Today’s reading says that we, adults, are no longer like kids, who are very pushy when they want to get something. Kids are indeed very persistent. My students would repeatedly and ceaselessly ask me for lots and lots of things (sometimes, every second –seriously! just to get what they want!)... Ms. Jam, can I go play again? Ms. Jam, can we go to the park? Ms. Jam, can I have more cookies? Ms. Jam, can I do this? Ms. Jam, can I do that? Ms. Jam...Ms. Jam...Ms.Jam!
Sometimes, they get me to concede. I give in because they just won’t stop...
Is God like that? Would He eventually concede if I insist on getting what I want?
To quote Bo Sanchez: "The universe adjusts to your expectations. If you expect nothing, you get nothing. Ask. Not for a bit. Not for a little. Ask for a double portion!"
That’s why I haven’t given up on my prayers. That’s why I haven’t truly let go of some of the things in my life right now. That’s why I continue to hope, to plan, to aspire, to dream, and to love. It is because I know that God is always listening. He never says "no" to me… He simply answers my prayers in a way that’s best for me.
Sometimes, some of the things that happen in our life are contrary to what we’ve been praying for. When things don’t turn out the way we want them to, should we still be persistent in prayer? When and how do we know if God is already saying... “NO...NO...NO”?
Today’s reading says that we, adults, are no longer like kids, who are very pushy when they want to get something. Kids are indeed very persistent. My students would repeatedly and ceaselessly ask me for lots and lots of things (sometimes, every second –seriously! just to get what they want!)... Ms. Jam, can I go play again? Ms. Jam, can we go to the park? Ms. Jam, can I have more cookies? Ms. Jam, can I do this? Ms. Jam, can I do that? Ms. Jam...Ms. Jam...Ms.Jam!
Sometimes, they get me to concede. I give in because they just won’t stop...
Is God like that? Would He eventually concede if I insist on getting what I want?
To quote Bo Sanchez: "The universe adjusts to your expectations. If you expect nothing, you get nothing. Ask. Not for a bit. Not for a little. Ask for a double portion!"
That’s why I haven’t given up on my prayers. That’s why I haven’t truly let go of some of the things in my life right now. That’s why I continue to hope, to plan, to aspire, to dream, and to love. It is because I know that God is always listening. He never says "no" to me… He simply answers my prayers in a way that’s best for me.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
The year that was…
Just as I was busy working on my lesson plan, memories of the year that was, kept flashing in my mind. And just as I was trying my very best to start anew with my life, people and things are just there to take me back to the year that has gone by.
It was a good thing that there’s also always something there to remind me that there is a tomorrow to look forward to…
“As the New Year approaches, there will be questions and challenges that will confront us. Many times we won’t know the exact result but uncertainty should not stop us from following the Lord. After all, He’s the One who can see how all things will end”…
These were lines from today’s reading which sums up the way we all should think as the year comes to a close. It very well reminds me that I have been blessed and will continuously be, in the years to come.
The past year has been so beautiful that I could not complain about the hurts that I’ve felt and the pains that I’ve gone through along the way. With complete faith and trust in Him, I am assured all things will end beautifully.
A blessed 2010 to everyone…
It was a good thing that there’s also always something there to remind me that there is a tomorrow to look forward to…
“As the New Year approaches, there will be questions and challenges that will confront us. Many times we won’t know the exact result but uncertainty should not stop us from following the Lord. After all, He’s the One who can see how all things will end”…
These were lines from today’s reading which sums up the way we all should think as the year comes to a close. It very well reminds me that I have been blessed and will continuously be, in the years to come.
The past year has been so beautiful that I could not complain about the hurts that I’ve felt and the pains that I’ve gone through along the way. With complete faith and trust in Him, I am assured all things will end beautifully.
A blessed 2010 to everyone…
Thursday, November 12, 2009
What I'd Do for Love
Wait...fall in...fall out of...look for...
We do all these for love. I…have done all these for love.
Isn't it tiring? I say it’s not. No matter how painful the last heartbreak is, we still continuously yearn for love. And honestly, I do. Who doesn't? I guess only those who already found it.
The last one I had, which was my first heartbreak too, was both easy and hard for me to handle. The distance in between and the time that has passed somehow made everything easier for me to come to grips with, but difficult, because of the questions that are left, and will remain unanswered.
No, I am not afraid to fall in love the second time around. I still haven't lost heart, coz if I do, I don't think I would still listen to hopeless romantic love songs, nor would I get twitterpated when I watch Pinoy teleseryes. I, in fact, miss the feeling of being in love. Whenever I see couples around, I would sometimes feel the need for someone to have and to hold. And how I long for a family of my own whenever I see what delight my nephew brings to everyone.
No, I don't feel desperate or hopeless yet (sa ganda kong 'to?!.....KIDDING!!!!) It's just probably one of those days when you're 28, and single, that you feel the clock ticking. It also doesn't help when friends and acquaintances get married or give birth left and right. Then again, this doesn't bother me a lot. As I said, it's just one of those days. I usually get through this state of "craziness", as my friend calls it, in a day or two.
I still want to do a lot of things in my life, like go back to school to finish my master's degree, put up my own school, buy my own house, and continue helping the family. The list could go on and on and on...but I should slow down, stop, and think once in a while; otherwise, I might let the opportunity for love pass without even noticing it because I was too busy achieving my goals.
Right now, I'm waiting, and at the same time looking for the right one. I waited 23 years before I finally opened my heart to someone for the first time. I guess it wouldn't hurt if I wait again, not for another 23 years (oh please!), but a little…well actually, a lot shorter, I pray! :j
We do all these for love. I…have done all these for love.
Isn't it tiring? I say it’s not. No matter how painful the last heartbreak is, we still continuously yearn for love. And honestly, I do. Who doesn't? I guess only those who already found it.
The last one I had, which was my first heartbreak too, was both easy and hard for me to handle. The distance in between and the time that has passed somehow made everything easier for me to come to grips with, but difficult, because of the questions that are left, and will remain unanswered.
No, I am not afraid to fall in love the second time around. I still haven't lost heart, coz if I do, I don't think I would still listen to hopeless romantic love songs, nor would I get twitterpated when I watch Pinoy teleseryes. I, in fact, miss the feeling of being in love. Whenever I see couples around, I would sometimes feel the need for someone to have and to hold. And how I long for a family of my own whenever I see what delight my nephew brings to everyone.
No, I don't feel desperate or hopeless yet (sa ganda kong 'to?!.....KIDDING!!!!) It's just probably one of those days when you're 28, and single, that you feel the clock ticking. It also doesn't help when friends and acquaintances get married or give birth left and right. Then again, this doesn't bother me a lot. As I said, it's just one of those days. I usually get through this state of "craziness", as my friend calls it, in a day or two.
I still want to do a lot of things in my life, like go back to school to finish my master's degree, put up my own school, buy my own house, and continue helping the family. The list could go on and on and on...but I should slow down, stop, and think once in a while; otherwise, I might let the opportunity for love pass without even noticing it because I was too busy achieving my goals.
Right now, I'm waiting, and at the same time looking for the right one. I waited 23 years before I finally opened my heart to someone for the first time. I guess it wouldn't hurt if I wait again, not for another 23 years (oh please!), but a little…well actually, a lot shorter, I pray! :j
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Just What I Wanted
Until now I still get a lot of realizations in terms of my chosen profession. It's as if my love for my work and happiness that I feel right now are not enough, I'm still constantly presented with a lot of reasons that keep my passion for teaching burning. Sometimes, (well,fine...most of the time!) I find myself exuberant whenever I talk about my work and experiences in my own little world..my classroom...just like now...!
My most recent realization was how teaching fulfills all my childhood dream jobs in certain ways. I guess in this profession, I can be everything I want. Wonderin' how's that possible?
For one, I used to dream of being on those pencil-cut skirt, blouse, blazer and scarf, pulling my own little luggage, walking past the passengers who are lined up to board the aircraft. But why be away from family for a flight duty when I can be the flight attendant in my own classroom...or even be the pilot! I am also up on my feet the whole day, developing the same amount of varicose veins as I would 30,000 ft up in the air, just so I can attend to all the needs of my passengers - my students. I used to do this with full make up on (because we were required to) while donning 3-inch stiletto heels. But I’d rather be on flats now just to save myself from more leg pains, which, by the way, I am already experiencing at my "young" age!
And who needs 4 grueling years in the university just to learn how to keep track of financial accounts? Definitely not me! In the first place, with my meager salary, there's not much accounting to do. But seriously, I once proved that I can be an accountant and do simple accounting when I had to handle all the financial aspects of my now defunct tutorial service business. No, it didn't close because of my poor accounting skills. It was because I went here in the US (to live the so-called American dream.) Then again, I can still practice my math skills in teaching when I compute grades! And yes, I do teach math...kindergarten math that is. I love math! But I was just not trained to teach it. So better leave it to the experts. What do you expect? I only had one math subject in my entire 4 years in the university.
Then comes my biggest frustration of all...to be a singer! Yes, I once dreamed of performing on stage belting out Celine Dion hits (just kidding! coz that is way too ambitious of me!) But yeah, seriously, I had my fair share of hilarious stories on how far I went just so I could pursue a career in singing - from voice workshops, band auditions to almost competing with Sarah Geronimo on stage(of course I’m kidding again because I never even made it to the elimination week for I was not fortunate enough to be chosen as one of the four from among those who passed the 2-day audition...but at least I passed!hehe) Anyway, going back, I now know why God gave me a singing voice though He didn't want me to be in showbiz after all. :) First and foremost, He knows I can't handle intrigues! hehe…No... Seriously, I believe I was given the knack (alright, the love...) for singing because I can very well utilize it in the classroom. I now not only sing to my heart's desire... I also dance to the kids' delight! I find myself every morning now singing the Star Spangled Banner the loudest, with feelings, and all the other kiddie songs while my audience (the kids) are having fun either by singing and dancing with me, or by just plainly watching me. What a great pleasure it is for me to see amazement on their faces! They may be really amused or probably they simply find me hilarious. For whatever reason it is, I’m just pleased that I am able to make their learning experience a lot of fun.
Most interesting of all, I can be a great mom while teaching... at least for practice! Being in-charge of a whole bunch of kids of different abilities, personalities and ethnicities, is no joke. It is definitely not an easy task. But, I’m enjoying every bit of it. There are indeed good and bad days, but it's just all in a day's work of a teacher. At the end of each day, all I can think of is how a certain student has improved, who did a good job or who just needs more of my motherly care. I am just delighted whenever someone tells me how good I am with children even if I don't have my own kids yet, and that they think that I’m going to be a great mom someday. I hope I’d be. I really am looking forward to having kids of my own. I know that all these will happen in God's perfect time. In the meantime, I need to find someone first to build my own family with. 'Guess that's the first step I have to take. Well, that may probably take time, especially in this field. Be that as it may, it doesn't make my passion for this profession any less. :j
My most recent realization was how teaching fulfills all my childhood dream jobs in certain ways. I guess in this profession, I can be everything I want. Wonderin' how's that possible?
For one, I used to dream of being on those pencil-cut skirt, blouse, blazer and scarf, pulling my own little luggage, walking past the passengers who are lined up to board the aircraft. But why be away from family for a flight duty when I can be the flight attendant in my own classroom...or even be the pilot! I am also up on my feet the whole day, developing the same amount of varicose veins as I would 30,000 ft up in the air, just so I can attend to all the needs of my passengers - my students. I used to do this with full make up on (because we were required to) while donning 3-inch stiletto heels. But I’d rather be on flats now just to save myself from more leg pains, which, by the way, I am already experiencing at my "young" age!
And who needs 4 grueling years in the university just to learn how to keep track of financial accounts? Definitely not me! In the first place, with my meager salary, there's not much accounting to do. But seriously, I once proved that I can be an accountant and do simple accounting when I had to handle all the financial aspects of my now defunct tutorial service business. No, it didn't close because of my poor accounting skills. It was because I went here in the US (to live the so-called American dream.) Then again, I can still practice my math skills in teaching when I compute grades! And yes, I do teach math...kindergarten math that is. I love math! But I was just not trained to teach it. So better leave it to the experts. What do you expect? I only had one math subject in my entire 4 years in the university.
Then comes my biggest frustration of all...to be a singer! Yes, I once dreamed of performing on stage belting out Celine Dion hits (just kidding! coz that is way too ambitious of me!) But yeah, seriously, I had my fair share of hilarious stories on how far I went just so I could pursue a career in singing - from voice workshops, band auditions to almost competing with Sarah Geronimo on stage(of course I’m kidding again because I never even made it to the elimination week for I was not fortunate enough to be chosen as one of the four from among those who passed the 2-day audition...but at least I passed!hehe) Anyway, going back, I now know why God gave me a singing voice though He didn't want me to be in showbiz after all. :) First and foremost, He knows I can't handle intrigues! hehe…No... Seriously, I believe I was given the knack (alright, the love...) for singing because I can very well utilize it in the classroom. I now not only sing to my heart's desire... I also dance to the kids' delight! I find myself every morning now singing the Star Spangled Banner the loudest, with feelings, and all the other kiddie songs while my audience (the kids) are having fun either by singing and dancing with me, or by just plainly watching me. What a great pleasure it is for me to see amazement on their faces! They may be really amused or probably they simply find me hilarious. For whatever reason it is, I’m just pleased that I am able to make their learning experience a lot of fun.
Most interesting of all, I can be a great mom while teaching... at least for practice! Being in-charge of a whole bunch of kids of different abilities, personalities and ethnicities, is no joke. It is definitely not an easy task. But, I’m enjoying every bit of it. There are indeed good and bad days, but it's just all in a day's work of a teacher. At the end of each day, all I can think of is how a certain student has improved, who did a good job or who just needs more of my motherly care. I am just delighted whenever someone tells me how good I am with children even if I don't have my own kids yet, and that they think that I’m going to be a great mom someday. I hope I’d be. I really am looking forward to having kids of my own. I know that all these will happen in God's perfect time. In the meantime, I need to find someone first to build my own family with. 'Guess that's the first step I have to take. Well, that may probably take time, especially in this field. Be that as it may, it doesn't make my passion for this profession any less. :j
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