If a picture paints a thousand words, then this picture is a good depiction of my life at present. School till 4 (filled with all sorts of responsibilities, challenges and lessons to teach), endless markings of essays, responsibilities at home, tuition, counselling etc etc etc before I literally fall asleep wherever I am, dreading the hour I have to wake up and start again. I got to leave now; have to go see a couple to provide them with pre-marriage advice. See ya!

Lessons From Mistakes

It has been a very emotionally draining experience - a student was extremely offended by my words, jokes and style of teaching. I made the effort to explain my intentions and what I actually meant but I believe that when words hurt, reason makes no sense and is only seen as an excuse. I acknowledged my wrong and publicly apologized. It was the right thing to do but I am saddened and emotionally drained. I pray no more such episodes will take place. What did I learn from this?

1. What's funny for one, is offensive to the other. Be careful when joking and jesting in class and try never to laugh at or make a joke of a student or else disaster awaits.
2. In a multi racial class, the potential to step on sensitive 'toes' abound - learn to walk far away from such feet and be highly sensitive to certain students' reactions
3. Realize your words carry shades of meanings and its the receiver's/listener's interpretation that counts - not what you said but what she believed you said.
4. Hurting people hurt people - students come from various backgrounds and situations. Some are hurting and what you say and do can increase pain that already exist.
5. Trust God, do what is right, be humble and seek the best for all in these situations.

May God be gracious, just and true on all of us. Amen.