The Work of Heart

John Paul T. Duñgo

In everything, set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching, show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned… Simple but painstaking words of God from Titus 2:7.

Teaching is a gift and is designated by God. It is one of the most challenging professions yet the most rewarding. This is especially true if teachers realize that God has called and gifted them to serve His children in a special way.

Through crest and troughs, a great teacher does not only teach learners placed under her care every year but does the work of heart. This is what our Lord modeled and it is what He encourages all teachers to mirror in their craft. Exhibiting the love, humility and compassion of God to students will speak volumes that will stay even beyond the classroom and curriculum.

Teachers are the most selfless, giving, caring individuals in the world. Their ambitions are in seeing their students succeed in life and we have our teachers to thank for where we are. Yet, teachers often face discouragement and feelings of defeat, and are under-appreciated in some cases but the aforementioned verse is an eloquent reminder of their worth and importance in our society.

In these modern days, teachers are hindered from renown though they are the most deserving ones. They selflessly devoted themselves to meet the desired outcome of the K-12 curriculum which is producing functionally-literate and globally-minded citizens. These unsung modern heroes entwine with parents and stakeholders to constantly provide the best for the Filipino children.

The answer to the query “Are teachers ready to face immediate reforms?” shouts out loud and clear. Though teaching has evolved through the years in the advent of technology and innovations, the way teachers showcase their own artistic expression has remained unchanged while keeping abreast with current trends and modalities in 21st century.

Behind intermittent conditions, pressure and constraints, Filipino teachers are ready to embrace innovative changes and their crucial role to help uphold the vision, mission, goals and objectives of the Department of Education.

The Annual Teachers’ Day celebration is a consolation to teachers as they truly deserve to be hailed at the pedestal for the great deal of sacrifice, love and hard work. They may not reach the hall of fame but behind incognito, they live their lives in integrity and dignity making themselves worthy of emulation especially to the youth, the future generations, the hope of our nation.

Jesus was the perfect and ultimate teacher. Though as human beings we can never encompass perfection, we need to recognize and take pride of the calling He has given to teachers.

Let us invoke others to speak words of encouragement and thankfulness to those who labor for the work of heart, and join hands as we proudly say “Long live teachers!”

--oOo-

The author is Teacher III at Sapang Maisac Elementary School, Mexico West

District, Division of Pampanga