Monday, January 22, 2007

Relief teaching back at my primary school made me feel nostalgic. It was surprising to know most of the teachers who taught me still recognise me, even as they grapple with old age. I used to think teaching back at my primary school would be too close for comfort, especially working alongside teachers whom you once feared. Maybe I was just afraid the same old fear would resurface. But I was just being paranoid. I could see the pride in their eyes when I told them they had once taught me. It feels weird to talk to them as a fellow colleague because 10 years ago they were towering over me, and now I've outgrown them. Or have they shrunk. Eitherway, to me, they'll always be my teachers, not colleagues.

That aside, I actually enjoy teaching. I didn't know there was so much shouting involved though, especially when you're dealing with a whole class of hyperactive 8 year olds. It can be exasperating, when they refuse to listen and start making a racket. Some students are really nice and obedient, behaving like good little children should. But some are like little devils. Many times I feel like just grabbing them by the collar and shoving them into the cupboard at the back of the classroom. No wonder the teaching pay is good, considering the high risk of insanity.

Days like these fly by - I wake up in the morning for relief teaching when schools call me, then head to work at Night Safari after. And on my off days I teach tuition. It makes me feel like I've used my time well, tiring though it is.

If you ask me which I prefer, studying or working, I have yet to draw any conclusions. Working is hard, but so it studying. Working is fun, but so it school.

Therein lies the paradox.

writing at 9:09 AM

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