ON THE OTHER SIDE

FARRAH C. MANANSALA

author is Teacher IIl District.

While the others are complaining, I am enjoying the sweetest side of teaching. How ironic that the thing seems stressful to others is exciting and a blessing for me. I am one of the living testaments of how difficult teaching is as a profession. Hard-headed students, paper works, extra-curricular activities, hectic schedules, and even the competition for promotion are a few of those deadly things revolving around us as teachers. It is undeniable that I am one of those persons who are standing firm as we perform our duties despite our tired bodies. I spend too much time on my work while for my family is like a leftover. It may be painful on my part to do these things because half of my life will be allotted to this daily routine in the same environment. However, I do not regret where I am now. I pray so hard for this. I almost die crying to have this noblest profession that serves as our bread and butter. With that, then who am I to complain? Maybe struggles and challenges often exist in every workplace, but one thing is for sure, these things are not forever. Change is only permanent in this world, therefore, there is a season for everything. Instead of focusing on the endless battle of our career, let us see its sweetest phase. Let us figure out the big picture behind our unending efforts. From non-readers to proficient readers, from passive to active students, and from poor to productive learners, are these not enough to consider as a great reward or accomplishment? How about the trust of students that we earn? The respect that we harvest? I think that these things may consider treasures that last forever. Teaching is very sacrificing, but in end, it is very gratifying especially when you see students improving themselves. After all, it is heart-warming to all of us that we are considered instruments for their transportation to their best version. As a teacher, I honestly state that we experience the worst things, but I always enjoy the rain. I always dance and play with it, so I do not feel discouragement. We often hear sad stories, but do not let them ruin your happiness. We tend to experience hard work, but do not let it destroy our character. We might encounter bitterness, then let this make you better. Let us try to rip the sweet fruits of our labor. Maybe we feel that we are riding on a roller coaster, but do not forget that we are still on the road to success. Because after extreme adventure, we will feel happy for our better future.