I never dream of being a Public School Teacher.

            Honestly, hearing the title it really makes me sick. Yes, you hear it right. It is so despicable, as you have to be awake early in the morning preparation your lesson for the day, mingle with the students who will just make your headache. Those were old sentiments that I have bear in mind as I see the world they live in. My grandfather and grandmother were teachers both in father and mother side.

            I grew up with them. I have seen them going to school even if it is summer. They still have to clean and visit the Division Office to pass School Report as he is a Principal. Aside from that he tend to attend seminars with me left in the jeepney watching people who passes by the road, counting the vehicles and playing toys inside.

            As I enter college, I want to be a CPA someday and I am determined. But destiny seems to play a game on me. Out of the blue during the interview when ask what course will I took up I answer, “Education nalang po.”

I started schooling cursing my course. I loathe it! Even during my observation, I tend to be aloof with my students. I cannot do something drastic about it. But one day, a parent talk to me and it changes my thinking and attitude towards teaching.

The worse among all worst! November 2011 my first job as LSB at MNHS-Malaya as co-Adviser of III Silver. They make me feel once again the agony that has been burned. Quitting were words that pop-out of my mind until my cousin who happens to be a public school teacher as well hear my sentiments and ask me have you watched the movie “ Every child is like stars on Earth?” While like ishan’s teacher? Am I  like them? Will I give up that easily? Will I give up on what has been given to me?

Determined and principled, I stood up once again. With my heart bigger to loved and understand my students and ears widely open to listen to my students. I do not know if I am right that I show too much affection with them. I do not know if it is right to cry as well if my students tell a burden. I am not sure if giving them food if they do not have anything to eat is correct. All I knew is that I started loving what I am doing.

I do not teach. They teach me. Yes, you are right I am not a teacher! My students are my teacher. They taught me lessons which are not written on the book.

Love what you are doing and it will love you back.

By: Marc Ian M. Mangobat | T-I |Mariveles National High School