I still remember the day I walked into my classroom, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. I was about to start teaching Primary 3 pupils, and I had no idea what to expect. Little did I know that those tiny humans would soon capture my heart and make me feel like a mother to them.
At first, it was tough. Trying to manage a class of energetic and curious 8-year-olds was no easy feat. I had to think on my feet, come up with creative lesson plans, and be patient with them when they struggled. But as the weeks went by, something amazing happened. The pupils started to open up to me, sharing their stories, their fears, and their dreams.
They'd come to me with their problems, seeking advice and comfort. We'd share our lunches together, and I would listen to their stories about their families and friends. It wasn't long before they started calling me "Mummy" in school. At first, it felt a bit strange, but soon it became a title I wore with pride.
Of course, it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were days when I felt overwhelmed, like I was drowning in a sea of paperwork and lesson plans. But the good days far outweighed the bad. Seeing my pupils learn and grow, watching them overcome their fears and build confidence, was the most rewarding experience of my life.
One pupil in particular stands out in my mind. She was a shy and timid girl who struggled to make friends. But with time, patience, and encouragement, she started to blossom. She began participating in class, making friends, and even volunteering to lead group activities.
As the year drew to a close, the pupils gave me a gift that I will never forget a handmade card filled with messages of love and appreciation. One message read, "Mummy, you are the best teacher in the whole world. We love you!" I was overwhelmed with emotion as I read those words.
Looking back, I realize that being a "mother" to my Primary 3 pupils taught me so much about love, patience, and understanding. It showed me that being a mother isn't just about biology it's about the relationships we build, the love we share, and the lives we touch.
