31/12/2022
2022, what a year it's been. I knew being in education involved teaching, motivating and nurturing, but I wasn't prepared for what came my way this year.
It started off with the usual focus on academics. However, as I got to know some of my students better, some decided to confide in me, sharing the challenges they faced as a teen- stress, loneliness, eating disorders, depression, and more. The things my seemingly happy students shared with me, broke my heart and left me feeling very distressed, overwhelmed and helpless.
I had to learn how to address different issues tactfully, recognise when my students were ready to receive my advice and to direct my student and their families to professional help when it was beyond my capabilities. A steep learning curve indeed but one that I was able to climb with the support of family and friends. I am humbled that I had been given these learning opportunities, so proud of my students' courage and thankful for parents who were open to hearing me out.
As I step into 2023, I look forward to what this new year holds for me. More importantly, I hope that through my teaching, I will continue to impact the lives of my students in a positive way.