Today, I had dinner with the weekend class who I taught over one year ago and is going to graduate this coming June. I got the invitation card last week instead of any phone call. Still it is always a great and final opportunity to have a chat with my lovely students. So I went after all in the middle of their dinner. They were surprised to see me. Somehow familiar and strange, some came to talk to me individually. They burst into tears, describing how the TESOL course I gave them changed their view toward English teaching and life. They themselves are children English teachers, advancing their professional knowledge at Shu-te. I felt so touched when hearing this. I hadn't realized how every word and every move of me could make a difference until then. To me at the time, I was doing my job, trying best to give them whatever I had regarding the area. The influence actually was beyond my imagination. I was delighted I made at least some contributions and gave practical help to my students. On the other hand, I have to be much more prudent about whatever I do or say to my students. A teacher doesn't just spread knowledge but the way he or she treats others and lives a life. Fortunately, to them my influence is positive.
Recalling when I was in primary school, I have always wanted to be a teacher. I couldn't help teaching others what I had learned. It was a great sense of achievement that pushed me to continue. Being a teacher is a career to love, to give, and to appreciate. I have to admit that I have learned a lot from my students; their feedback evokes improvement of me. If I am of any success being a teacher,who makes it possible is my students.
