A source of inspiration

IF THE proverb — the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world — is a fitting tribute to mothers, then certainly teachers who inspire will have the same effect on their students.

The teacher who influenced me the most during primary school was my English Language teacher, Wan Nona Azizah, whom we affectionately call Cik Nona from SK Convent Teluk Intan, Perak.

She stands just slightly below 1.52m (five feet), a petite salt-and-pepper haired woman who is wheelchair bound. However, do not be fooled by her appearance as she is capable and way ahead in spirit and thought as many of her other able-bodied teachers. Her voice is thunderous and she commands the respect of all who meet her.

While Cik Nona is strict and can be harsh in the way she reprimands us, her lessons are lively and interesting.

She resorts to interesting and innovative teaching techniques when conducting her lessons.

She has trained her pupils to be independent learners, and I can proudly say that those in her class are “brave” enough to speak in public.

Cik Nona has been the school’s choral speaking coach for over a decade, and SK Convent Teluk Intan has always emerged the district champion.

It has also represented Perak in the national competition before.

Those who have practised during choral speaking sessions in our school know that it is not at all fun. The sessions come with lots of tears, sweat and pain as Cik Nona is tough and takes a lot of pride in making sure that we “get it right”.

The sessions may be “agonising” to many students but it is because of her strict training that we have achieved so much.

She is a source of inspiration to me and others as instead of wallowing in self-pity, she has taken the many hurdles over the years in her stride.

Cik Nona has taught me to live life to the fullest and to always carpe diem (seize the day). JASMEEN SHARMA