From the beginning of the year, I was named debate judge for high school English debate nationals tournament. Never in my life had I ascended into such heights. I was always confident about myself as a teacher and English debate coach but never had I felt that I was "officially qualified" for a debate judge. I am grateful for NTNU's invitation and that experience gave me better perspective of who I was as a teacher and coach. Holding my ground as the newbie judge on the stage proved to be something new but I went through anyway and did excellent work. I even managed to make a speech that was intended to rouse the students into action - the reform and change we have all craved for in past elections in Taiwan.
Sadly, an unexpected storm hit me near the beginning of June that placed me at odds of going back to the school that I was beginning to call home and had served willingly for 2 years and 7 months. I had no choice but to adjust and adapt. As a former doctor, I believed in my duty to give the counseling that I learned in psychiatry department during my internship rotations. I also believed that I wasn't the conventional teacher and that my role was not "traditional". Unfortunately, not everyone concurs to that role I assumed I held. With the help of God, I was able to rise out of the ashes in November and became English debate coach at another school as well as newly defined role as debate specialist for students from various schools, both private and public. During those five to six months of loneliness and desperation, students from all forms of education relationship with me, came to my support and comforted me as I was emotionally scarred and deflated. I questioned myself whether I was fit to be a coach or a teacher in this country's education environ. Then I realized that there are still allies who knew who I was and were willing to give me the chance to succeed elsewhere. I can't thank God and everyone around me enough. Without my students' love, support, and unwavering conviction of my character, I would not have survived and certainly would not be writing this entry. I also lost my dear cat Mr. Black, to a speeding scooter rider who not only denied any wrongdoing but pursue reimbursement for his bike damage and clinic visits. Yet, during this time, God worked His wonders. I began to get more offers than I can ever imagine, from powerpoint presentation to just about any gigs. In the end, what the irresponsible man asked for was only less than one-tenth of the total income I earned in November. I am very fortunate. I hope Mr. Black is well and having fun with God near the church where I buried the remains of his cremated body. As for the karma, that man has a lot to look forward to this coming new year. I am not the one carrying those vibes. During the second half of 2018, I also crossed barriers, making strides into MUN coaching, debate coaching, and basketball pep talk. Teachers' development offers were truly a blessing and I am so fortunate to have caught the eyes of various schools who knew I had the value and passion to make things different for Taiwan. Thank you all for seeing the good in me and making me whole again as a working member of this society. As the last day of December closes and many people will flock the bars, clubs, KTVs, and outdoor celebrations, I will stay up at a quiet place and quietly pray to Jesus, telling Him that I thank Him for all the protection, hope, and strength He bestowed on me. I know my life can't be taken for granted. I am servant of God and I will do anything I can to continue His work on Earth to make it a better place than when I was born. Goodbye 2018. Hello 2019.
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