From The Other Side

Recently, I had the chance to volunteer at a drawing competition held at a nearby school thanks to the Rotary and Rotaract movement (totally recommended you join one). I must have spent just about a couple of hours in that place but it was transforming enough.
One does not realize how much one has grown until you see someone much younger, behaving in a way you once used to and don't any longer. I, here, took a bunch of drawing sheets and crayons, walked into a classroom full off 11-year olds who stood up to say, "Good morning miss."

I froze, I did not see that coming, moreover my brain just went, "What?"
I had a million thoughts going around in my head, reminiscing my own school days and teachers when I realised I should wish the kids back. Regaining much composure, I proceeded to conduct the event in the class.

It was wonderful interacting with the children. The topic, "City Traffic" was vividly expressed on each sheet, often giving a little peek into the train of thought in that child's head. For many, a city was regular buildings and streets. For some, a city meant one by the hills or the sea. I walked around seeing what they were up to and it was fun helping them out with their doubts.
"May I drink water?"
"Can I use blue here?"
"Is it okay if I share my sketch pens?"
"I forgot my eraser and I don't know what to do."
As a 21 year old, these are things I don't really care about, yet alone think about. It's funny how things change so much over a span of 10 years and the realisation of "I have grown" dawns on you.

I have a new found respect for all primary and middle school teachers, it takes a special kind of compassion and nurturing to mould students and to allay their worries. At such ages, kids don't simply look up to you as an imparter of education (as how college is); for them a teacher is a hero, one who can do everything and knows everything. I am glad I got this opportunity to view school from the other side this time. It is a day that will stay with me for a very long time.