Thursday 18 January 2018

"You make learning like playing"

There have been many little things over the past the years that my little ones have told me. Most often, I'm pretty sure they don't know how much it means, but to me, these moments are so precious and they mean so much.
Two days ago, tired and exhausted from a long haul weekend finishing my dissertation, I walked into class for the latter hours of the school day. To be honest, I was in no mood to take an afternoon session that day, and most afternoons, my students are in no mood to work either.
"Let's do English." I said.
As I opened to the contents page, "Ma'am, I like learning with you." O said, out of the blue.
Caught off guard and curious, I said, " What do you mean?"
"You make learning fun. I like playing, but you make studying like playing, so I like learning with you."
"Yes ma'am, I never used to be able to learn, in my old school. But with you, studying is easy." said B.
A chorus of agreements and similar statements filled the class and I stood there overwhelmed trying to make sure I didn't cry. I don't think I could've explained to them why.
It took me a moment to recover, but when I did, I think the class was more fun than it ever was before. Or maybe that was just for me.
The magnitude of that statement hit me straight through my heart and even the thought of it overwhelms me. I can only rejoice in Christ for these dear ones I have the privilege to teach. Ever grateful!