The writer was wondering how long she had been teaching. Just a thought. On this day, October 5, 2023, the day the country celebrates the nobility of the people aligned in this profession along with the persons who were given services in order to shape the minds of mankind. However, the journey seems too difficult to bear as the economy, community, changes in the educational system as well and poverty hinder the chance of every single teacher to pave their way out in this noble journey. It is at this point that I come to terms with how my life has been after being in service for more than 10 years. Really, did it make me a better person? Am I successful? Does my life radiate change and have a stand in the profession?

Ten years ago, I was so excited to go back to as a public school teacher. After processing my papers and receiving the confirmation of my appointment, it seems that the journey will be the start of an unveiling of happiness and good fortune. I know, cliché it may sound but that’s how I view it. Before…flashback to 2013, I was so eager to employ my responsibility and serve as an aid to lock student’s minds to learning. I wanted so badly to produce students who turn knowledge into respect and responsibility. Inspire them to dream and become a better person. But you know, things will not be that easy. The battle ahead was so painstakingly draining that sometimes you are too tired to stand up with your daily routine. Now, I look at my efforts and have evaluated what I got in return. I received messages from my former students who said I was an instrument on the path they were trudging. In addition, my advisory class surprised me with gifts and ensured that everything was in order inside the room. Plus gifts and messages of appreciation from other entities riding beside my teacher life. And when I think of how I am through what I received today, I know that I became more. I am no longer the usual person that I was. And I knew I could be of service further because no matter what happens, there is always something to look into as a source of positivity whenever my journey hits rock bottom. Teaching may be hard, but the fruit of every endeavor will make you feel human.

So when I think about giving up, I just need to run down a few words, a phrase, or a simple thought to brush it up…Yes, teaching, it is what it is!