MY SCOTTISH EXPERIENCE

ROOM 130 DARROCH HALLS

2011-08-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

ROOM 130

NEWINGTON CAMPUS IN EDINBURGH

This is the photograph of the halls that I “stayed; for two years; 1993 to 1995. I used the word stayed because it was not my permanent home but I would still consider it a home because I still have fond memories of it.

When I reported at the halls of residence like all the others, I was given an envelope with 2 keys (one for the front door of the halls and the other to my room). My room was 128 and I happily carried my luggage to went to explore my room. It was a room with a bed, a writing table, a book shelf fixed to the wall and a table lamp. There was also a window with curtains. The only problem was it was small, with little space to move around for example to stretch or exercise. It was the size of a store room. It was still a room and I had to be contented for the time being.

Two weeks later, I manage to find out that there was another room; bigger than my present one. It was about three times the size of the one I had. I made up my mind to get it before others do. I went to the office and they told me to write a letter expressing my request. I immediately type a letter and stated my request. I was worried that others had beaten me for the room.

Surprisingly, two days later, the office staff informed me that my request was approved. I was told to vacate Room 128 and move into Room 130. I was thrilled beyond words and packed my things. I got the key to Room 130 and move my stuff in.

The sight of the room gave a sense of a relief. I could invite my friends to share drinks and chat or even discuss homework or assignments. I was very happy that I did not have to bump my head at the corner of the shelf or the writing table which I had done for the past two weeks.

This room, Room 130 was big with two heaters (one water-heated and the other, an electrical one). I could dry my clothes quicker then. I would even feel warmer especially in winter. There was even a big closet where I could keep all my clothes, jackets, shoes and other stuff.

Something happened there; I mean in the room and I think it is time to tell the world. Up until today, I still cannot explain what I saw or felt. Was it a dream or was it my imagination or was it just my loneliness that created what I saw.

It was a cold winter night and it was cold. I remember it was quite quiet and lonely as the local students had returned home to celebrate Christmas and New Year. The only students left were from overseas; like Malaysia, Africa, Hungary, France, Slovak Republic, Germany, and Indonesia and so on.

After my dinner in the halls, I read and wrote a letter to be sent home the next day. It was past midnight and I was quite exhausted. I fell asleep immediately and slept soundly as usual. I was and still am a sound sleeper.

It must have been in the early morning when I suddenly awoke or rather half awake. My eyes were heavy as you can imagine when you were sound asleep and suddenly asked to get up.

I was not afraid or nervous but rather surprised to see a shadowy figure beside me. She, yes, she was sitting on my bed just as if your mum would have done when you were sick. The figure did not move or spoke. She just sat and stared at me. I did not feel her weight on the bed. I could not make out the type of clothes that she was wearing nor her facial features. Everything was blurry and fuzzy. All that I saw was the long flowing robe that was grey.

I was unable to move. I was frozen because I knew that I tried to move my hands and legs but it was in vain. I also tried to say, utter or ask her but I could not. I just looked through my half closed eyes. My heart started to pound and I became quite frightened when I realized that it was something not natural.

It was impossible for other students or friends to enter my room as I would always lock the door before going to bed. My friends would not have the chance to pull a prank on me.
The realization that the figure was unnatural sent shivers down my spine. I only heard my breathing and I kept very still. I could not open my eyes wide. From the slits and the corner of my eyes, I saw the figure still seated there. She looked concerned and worried. I had no idea why she acted that way.

After quite a while, I realised that I could move my hands. I tried to wave her away but she had disappeared from my sight. I felt a sense of warmth but a little scared. I then checked my alarm clock on the study table. It was 4 in the wee hours of the morning. I tried to sleep but it was very difficult indeed with the incident still fresh in my mind.

By the time I awoke, it was already time to get ready for breakfast. At the dining hall, I met my usual group of friends and had my meal as usual. I did not dare tell anyone of them what I had encountered fearing that they would not believe me. They would even have laughed at me. It would be my secret until now.

SNOW! SNOW! SNOW!

2011-07-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

Steady, I shall use my kungfu...

Building a snowman

Our cute snowman

SNOW! SNOW! SNOW!

The first term was quickly over. The weather was turning colder. We expected snow to fall early but I did not expect it to fall in November. I vividly remember the night of November 20th. I woke up at about 2.00 am because I had the urge to go to the toilet. At that time, my room was no. 127. I saw something queer as I looked through the window. There was something floating down slowly towards the ground. It was a beautiful sight. Rain? No! I immediately realized that it was snow. The pale yellow light form the street lamps added to the already beautiful sight. I was so happy because I finally got the chance to see snow which I wanted so badly to see since I was here.

Being unable to control my excitement, I ran to the first floor of the halls. I woke up Augustine (Jayan) and told him about the snow. As we came out of the room to the corridor, we saw Gilbert and Ganesh already at the window. We peered out of the window and exclaimed at the wonderful sight. It was like a heavenly shower of rain except that it floated down slowly. Ganesh who was too happy put on his jacket, shoes and gloves and went out onto the field. He danced, ran about and drew patterns on the road which by then was quite covered with snow.

We, the three of us made a lot of noise. I hoped that the other students were not annoyed by our commotion. The roof of the halls and the trees were already white with the snow. The scene was typical of what I saw on TV programmes and in the postcards back home. And now I had the chance to see the real thing; it was indeed a wonderful experience.

The next morning, Sunday 21st November 1993, after breakfast, we (the Malaysians, Africans and other foreign students) were on the field. We walked, threaded, and kicked the snow on the field and on the road. It was a thin layer but it was our first experience with snow. Suddenly, someone started scooping up snow and throwing snow balls at me. I could remember that it was Jens Handest, a German student who stayed in Room 128. At once we started a snow ball throwing session. It was painful when hit by a ball of snow. The local students looked and smiled at the fun we had. I could picture all the scenes and stories I have read prior to coming here.

After some time we stopped and went to the car booth sales. I wanted to show Jens where it was.

GREENSIDE CAR PARK

2011-07-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

Greenside Car Park.

In the days and weeks that passed we came to know of another car boot sale at the Greenside Car Park. The place was enormous and could easily accommodate more than 300 cars. The sale was conducted in Level 2 of this underground car park.

It was a nice experience wandering around and getting to see all kinds of things; antique, furniture, books; tons of them from stories, novels, DIY, comics and magazines, electrical appliances, clothes, shoes, cups, glasses, toys, cassette recorders, CDs, tools and bags.
These CBS or car boot sales start from 10.00 am and end at 2.00 pm. The crowd was fantastic. By the time the sales started, it would be crowded. People would be milling around, touching, looking and asking about the prices but most of the time, the people would be doing window shopping. Some take the opportunity to bring the family for an outing and enjoy the atmosphere.
On most Sundays, I would leave with my friends after breakfast and walk for about 30 minutes to reach this Greenside Car Park. After spending some time, we would return or leave the place at 12.00 noon to the halls to have our lunch.

This Greenside Car Park is enormous because it has 4 levels and the car boot sale is held in Level 2. We had to use a lift to get to Level 2 and just as we enter the area, the air suddenly turns cold. So everyone would be wearing jackets, coats and woolen clothes to keep warm.
During the first two visits I bought 6 CDs at 50p and 2 cassettes (Disco hits) at £1 and some story books; Reader’s Digest Condensed version and some Enid Blyton story books. These are good books especially to learn more about the way of life of the English.
These books would definitely help Florence, Irene and Jensen to inculcate an interest in reading especially in English.

LESSONS IN DETAIL

2011-07-29T17:37:00.000-07:00

Phonology of English was conducted in Room C3/4 of Charteris Land.
The Lessons in Detail
1. Phonology of English
In the Phonology of English lessons, I was able to learn more about the correct pronunciation of English. I was corrected and praised at times and I felt that I had learned a lot under Dorothea.
Each time we met, there would be a short lecture on the different aspect of phonology. It would be followed by group work based on a handout. We would practice as a group before having individual practices on the self-recording and monitoring system. Dorothea would listen to me practicing the dialogue or sentences or phrases. We would also listen to our own recording on the tapes.

2. Systems of English
After years of using and learning, Rosemary Douglas really made us dig deep into our thoughts, ideas and books into understanding the various aspects of grammar of English. Now I come to understand that there is no such thing as future tense. It is just a term to express events that will happen in the future. I believe that there are still many things to learn.

3. Information Technology
During the Study Skills, I had the opportunity to use the computers in Demonstration School Room 11. The computers there were the Elonox which were based on the IBM format. At that time, I was really getting into the feel of computers and its usefulness.
During the first term in 1993, I had to attend tutorials and workshops so that I could handle and use other computers like the Apple MacIntosh. These were the better and up-to-date versions. They were easier to work with because they have been installed with Claris Work; a software similar to Microsoft Office now. I did not have any problem switching between these computers. Mike Quickfall was indeed a nice and helpful lecturer. He was ever ready to give us a hand when we needed help. I really had a wonderful time attending the lessons.

4. Reflections on Classroom Practice
This was another topic or module that really brought me out of my shell of assumptions and ideas to the world of reflecting upon all those ideas and make criticisms. From here I was guided to evaluate ideas, hypotheses and views of others.

5. Understanding Organisations
Bob McNie, the lecturer of this module provided us with a lot of facts, figures and information about schools in Scotland; both primary and secondary. All these information were given to prepare us to meet and accept the system of education here. Besides that it wa also to help us in assignments based on facts and information gathered during the visit to the schools.

7. Sports Elective
Every Friday mornings and Monday evenings I chose to attend sports as en elective.
On Monday there was a session on badminton from 3.00 pm till 5.00 pm; usually ending at 4.30 pm. It was really fun knowledgeable learning and experiencing coaching techniques and skills under Alistair Wilson. It was tiring though but it was worth it as a form of exercise.
The Friday session of basketball under Bill; another lecturer was another hectic and tiring session. Skills were imparted and we practiced and played games with the local Scottish students. Chasing, marking and competing with these young local students was really exhausting. But they were always friendly and nice to us. During rest time and in the changing room, there were always chats and friendly exchanges. We would be looking forward to meeting one another in the next session.

The worst part after a module; usually after 4 to 5 weeks was a written assignment or folio. We had to put our ideas about coaching techniques and skills into these assignments. It was a totally new experience. Anyway we created quite an impression by producing wonderful essays with lots of graphics. Here scanning and pasting pictures with the aid of computers were a breeze.

THE CAR BOOT SALES IN EDINBURGH

2011-07-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

Apart from all the assignments, lectures, reading and workshops, I still could find time to relax and do my usual visits and shopping.
The one memorable and interesting thing I have seen, witnessed and gone to several times is the talk among the Malaysian students and probably the others too. I mean the car boot sales; or CBS. These are usually held at specific places like a car park. There are several of these in and around Edinburgh.
I could still remember the first one that I went to. It was early one Sunday morning during September. I and several others; in fact the twenty of us boarded a bus and went to an open air car park called Morrison Car Park in Haymarket.
It was early; probably at 9.30 am when we reached the spot after asking around. It was a sight to remember. There were about 10 cars all lined up with things arranged beside them. The Malaysian contingent gave the locals an eye opener. Well, we wandered around from one car to another or rather from one lot to another looking at the goods on displayed. There were clothes for men, women, and children. There were coats, jackets, pants, dresses and others. There were also furniture, lamps, electrical items like kettles, toasters, electrical clocks, radios, TVs, antiques, shoes, bags, books and all sorts of things that the locals wanted to get rid of.
Some were in very good condition but some were rather old and in dire need of repair. Our Malaysian contingent bought bags full of clothes as they needed them for winter. They bought clothes of all kinds, shoes and others.
As for me, I wandered around, touching and examining various articles. I finally settles for an old antique camera; a Kodak that was made in England and which uses a no. 126 film. It is unique in the sense that Kodak is now produced in Australia. It shall be a reminder of my first visit to a car boot sale.
Later as we found out that there were not much to offer, we walked and wandered along Princess Street. It was crowded with people walking along the street or rather the wide pavement. They were just enjoying the walk along the street.

Term 1 (1993/1994)

2011-03-04T21:48:00.000-08:00

Our classroom was in Chessel’s Land. The class was in room no. C2/1. That building was also shared by the arts students. Each day we had to climb a narrow flight of stairs to attend lectures.
Information Technology was conducted at Demonstration School in Room 16. Phonology of English was conducted in Room C3/4 of Charteris Land.

Term 1 (1993/1994)

2011-03-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

The actual course (Bachelor of Education (TESL) started on 4th October 1993. On the first day, there were many procedures like registration forms to fill and matriculation card to be made. The matriculation card could be used for many things like paying bills, borrowing books and others.
Our course co-coordinator was Ms. Patricia Ahrens and the head was Mike Wallace.
The other tutors in the course were:
1. Dorothea Bogle - Phonology of English
2. Dr. Rosemary Douglas - Systems of English
3. Mike Quickfall - Information Technology
4. Patricia Ahrens - Reflection of School Practice
5. Bob McNie - Understanding Organisation
6. Alister Wilson - Elective – Sports Education

Our classroom was in Chessel’s Land. The class was in room no. C2/1. That building was also shared by the arts students. Each day we had to climb a narrow flight of stairs to attend lectures.
Information Technology was conducted at Demonstration School in Room 16. Phonology of English was conducted in Room C3/4 of Charteris Land.

September 5th to September 9th 1993

2011-03-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

It was the first week of the Study Skills Course. A coach took us to college as we were new to the place. It was also to familiarize us on the route to college. In the evening, we walked back to the halls on our own.
There was a pre-test given in the morning. It was a test of grammar. Ian Pearson gave out the test papers after a short but warm welcome.
As the test was carried out, Michael Hall was in charge. He was to be one of the tutors during the Study Skills Course. After the test, we had tea at the refractory in the main building. As for lunch, I bought a cheese sandwich in the cafeteria because I did not pack anything at breakfast. I then planned to pack a light mal with something at breakfast; with cold bacon and eggs. The sandwich cost £1.
From then on, classes and lectures were carried out according to the time table. The other tutors were; Jeff Aldridge, Lionel and Mary Jackson, Susan Wren, Dorothea Bogle and John Young.
All classes during the Study Skills Course were conducted in Charteris Land (see attached picture on the left) except for Information Technology under John Young at the Demonstration School. Classes started at 9.00 am and ended at 4.00 pm.
The whole course was to build up our skills in gathering information, writing out assignments, take lecture notes and brushing up our speaking and listening skills. The other aspect was the application of computers which was and is still is the most helpful tool in doing and getting work or assignments done.
All in all, it was quite an interesting experience during the whole course which lasted about a month.
It ended with a tea party at the halls of residence.

My room (Room 127)

2011-03-04T21:32:00.000-08:00

My room was no. 127. It was small with a single bed, a cupboard, a chair, a writing table with a book shelf above it. There was also a side drawer. In addition there was a ceiling lamp and a table lamp too.
As I unpacked and arranged my clothes and the other items, my mind was working ahead. This was to be my room and home for two years. Here I would do all my reading. Work, write letters, taking my tea and sleep. I would have to be alone, away from my family and doing all thing alone.
After a shower, we had an early dinner because we were starving. After dinner, I got down to write a letter home; finally. I knew everybody back home would be worries as I had not sent news to them since leaving Malaysia.

The Journey to the Halls of Residence

2010-09-14T07:51:00.001-07:00

Buchanan Hostel

The journey from the airport to the halls in Newington was a short one. My first impression of the buildings was one of awe and the architecture gave me a sense of living in the past. Upon reaching, we unloaded and hauled them to our rooms. Again, I helped to carry them up to the first floor of the Playfair Halls where the ladies were to stay. Luckily my room was on the ground floor of Darroch Hall.
The sun was shining brightly and many of the African students were sitting on the field enjoying the warmth.
The walls of the halls were built with bricks that one can see in most buildings in Scotland. I could constantly imagine myself as being in the stories I had read in books by Enid Blyton. I would expect mist and fog in the evening as described in those stories.

At Edinburgh Airport

2010-09-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

The plane touched down smoothly at Edinburgh at 3.30 pm. The usual process of getting the baggage and luggage from the airport to the bus that was waiting for us was carried out. Mike Wallace who was there to welcome as praised us for our collective effort in loading the luggage. It was late summer so I did not feel cold; furthermore I was already sweating after helping in the tedious task.

The airport at Edinburgh was like the Ipoh Airport. It is smaller. The one in Ipoh look spacious and well planned and decorated. Even the car park is bigger.

From London to Edinburgh

2010-09-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

Heathrow Airport was indeed crowded and busy with people from all over the world. I had a burger and a cup of soft drink for lunch. After that we wandered around the airport observing the people. There were many Asians and I bet all of them were students going to colleges or universities as they open at around the same time of the year. We a also spent some time browsing at the magazines at the book store.

There was an announcement for passengers boarding the flight to Edinburgh. We rushed and managed to locate Gate 5 just ten minutes before the plane was supposed to take off. We boarded and I got seat 16A. We were relieved as the flight; BA4782, was delayed by another passenger who was lost but he was not from our group.

On board we were served tea and a light lunch (sandwich and cookie). The food was cold and tasteless. Anyway I ate it as I was hungry and did not want to waste it. I also took a set of cutlery (spoon, fork and knife) as souvenirs.

London At Last

2010-05-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

The Flight MH 002 briefly stopped at Charles De Gaulle Airport to refuel and a change of flight attendants. Then it resumed the journey and landed at Heathrow Airport at 7.30 am (London Time). I did not feel the cold until I left the airport to assemble with the others at the entrance where a coach was supposed to pick us up. It was a freezing autumn morning.

While waiting at the entrance, I wondered why in the first place I had to come to face the fierce cold whereas I could be cozy and warm back home. I was dazed, confused and sad as to leave my happy family and friends. At the same time I felt a sense of achievement at being able to come here to join the course.

After waiting for more than an hour with no place to sit and to bear the cold, the coach or bus finally arrived. It was a relief. As a man, I helped the ladies and the others to load the heavy luggage onto the bus. The driver was really helpful. In fact as I later found out, it was part of their culture to do so.

We were driven to a B & B (Bed and Breakfast) called Morgan House which is about a 15-minute walk to the MSD (Malaysian Students’ Department in London). The same tedious task of unloading the luggage was carried out again. This time we had to help them to haul them up to the first and second floor of the B & B, winding up a narrow staircase.

I was really exhausted and I was sweating after those two rounds. Breakfast was not in my mind then as I did not have the time at all. Immediately, we were asked to walk to the MSD to attend a briefing. We managed to find the place after asking around. We met the others who were bound for Manchester and Birmingham. Together we sat and listened to speeches and advice given by several officials. The briefing was supposed to proceed until 2 pm but we protested due to our hunger. They allowed a half hour break for lunch which we had at a restaurant at the MSD serving Malaysian food. The meal or brunch (breakfast cum lunch) was badly needed as I was really hungry. I tried converting the cost of that meal to Malaysian currency. It cost nearly 5 ringgit; oh goodness. The second part of the briefing lasted another hour with various forms given out and with we were constantly bombarded with reminders and advice.

After that I left with the others for the B & B and had a badly needed shower to wake up after the boring session at the MSD. After that we wandered around the places nearby and we managed to visit Piccadilly Circus, Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square and various shopping centres. From Hyde Park, we joined a guided tour at £8 per person. It was a terrific tour around London and I shall never forget the cold wind that blew at us making all of us shiver are regretted sitting on the upper deck of the bus. The tour lasted one and a half hours and ended at Hyde Park again. It was already 6.30 pm and it was already dark. We made our way around and managed to get a quick dinner at the MSD again. After that we went back to the B&B and rested. That night we all had a good rest.

The next morning after the breakfast provided we packed and left the luggage there. Then we wandered around the neighbourhood but most of the shops were closed as it was a Sunday. At 10.00 am we loaded the entire luggage onto the bus which took us to Heathrow Airport again because we had to take a connecting flight to Edinburgh at 2.00 pm.

Leaving Malaysia (September 1993)

2010-05-25T05:59:00.000-07:00

On 3rd September 1993, the twenty of us who were bound for Moray House gathered at Subang Airport. We checked in at 9.00 pm and had our luggage and baggage checked.

There was the usual scene at airports; either in films or movies. People were everywhere and I had to bump and avoid others every step I took. I was busy helping to collect passports from the others to be checked.

As for me, I left my family in Ipoh. I said my goodbyes to my family; wife and three kids and parents and also my siblings. I knew very well that my wife would not be able to accept my departure at the airport. It would be too emotional. Furthermore I had to attend a briefing in the morning. So I had to be in K.L. the night before.

Back to the scene at the Subang Airport. My colleagues to Moray House had many family members and relatives to send them off. They were busy chatting, hugging, holding hands, whispering and laughing. Photographs were taken at every possible opportunity. I could see sad faces especially on couples so attached. Children were rather unsure of what was happening as they would just think that their parents were just going on a short holiday.

I could distinctly hear constant reminders to take care, eat good food, and writing back to Malaysia. Although I could see all these, I could not feel the same way because I had already switched off all these emotional scenes. I had already accepted this departure as something that cannot be avoided. There was no point in making such a scene since it was of no use.

I am one of those people with a strong will and very determine when it come to doing something. You may say that it is being stubborn but it has its advantages. Anyway I made a call to my wife prior to boarding to say that everything was fine and to advise her to take care and to take thing easy. It was not as emotional as what I saw at the airport,

I boarded the MAS plane at 11.30 pm with the others. It would be a 12 hour non-stop flight to London Heathrow Airport. It was also my second time on a plane. The first was from Ipoh to K..L. the previous day.

I was put into business class like most of the others. Service was superb. The take off was smooth and powerful. The air stewardess and stewards were very polite and efficient. Everything was carried out with the best politeness and manners. They were kept on their feet all the time serving food, drinks and various other demands. At the touch of a button, they would be at our side to answer our needs.

On top of that, movies were screened and we had individual TV and I played games. There were individual headphones and game controls too for the purpose.

Life at IYC, Kuala Lumpur

2010-05-23T02:52:00.000-07:00

Life at IYC was eventful and I had plenty of memories. There were 160 teachers staying there and I was placed in Room 328 with a bunch of crazy people. They were really crazy but it was fun with the laughter and jokes. There was never a moment of sadness. Some were smokers, jokers, noisy ones, and some slept at odd hours for example at 2 am, or even at 4 am.

The two months were indeed hectic for me as I was a replacement. I had to settle one matter every weekend; the passport, the medical examination, the letter of release from the school, and matters at the State Education Department.

On weekdays, I had to attend mass lectures, talks, briefings and classes. Some were quite boring though but some were of interest especially those about life in the U.K., on social etiquettes, and allowances.

In the afternoon, there were occasional classes but on days when there was nothing on, I would pop in at the swimming complex next to IYC and spend about an hour swimming in the pool. I managed to encourage two others; Zulkarnain and Tengku to join me. They had no experience and were first timers at swimming but they were eager to learn swimming. They bought goggles and swimming trunks and joined me each time I went to the pool. After a few lessons the two guys managed to swim quite well on their own.

Later many others joined me when I went swimming. Before that they had no one to follow. After seeing me going there so often, they followed me there. I guess I could proudly say that I had some influence as a leader. I would use this ability in later years to convince others in doing task.

Room 328 at IYC was indeed special. There were two Chinese guys (Leong and I), two Indians (Govinda and Ganesh), and the others were Malays. All of us had very different characteristics.

There were two ‘bears’ because they would sleep a lot especially in the afternoon or mornings. They would make a lot of noise and go out every night. They were Fauzi and Mohd Izham. Then there is another baby ‘bear’. He was small but he had the same characteristics and the other two ‘bears’.

Govinda was from Batu Gajah which is my own hometown. He was also my senior at the same secondary school; Sultan Yussof Secondary School. Here we were able to meet again.

The twelve of us in the room had a special understanding and relationship. Each tolerated and respected the other about religion, habits and customs.

There were others too; of whom I met at the interview in Penang. They were Lee Kean Wah and Kyla from Ipoh

The others who got to know my jovial character later towards the end of the course regretted because they did not have the chance to get together and joke and share the happy times at IYC.

The Dinner

2008-03-10T08:24:00.001-07:00

The school SJK(C) Wan Hwa 1 organised a farewell dinner for us. Of course I was the main star that night. As usual, we had a sumptious Chinese dinner; an eight-course dinner. During the dinner we were all chatting and joking about the days in school and the sudden hysteria a short while ago. They (the other teachers) kept pestering me for the technique that was so effective in causing such an emotional assembly. My answer to them was very simple and direct.

Love them like you love your children. Get to know them and praise them when due and punish them when needed. Be firm and go down to their level and be a friend to them. Then you have gained their trust and love.

Many teachers only know how to scold and to reprimand pupils and students in getting things done. There are other more practical ways doing so, To gain respect, we have to first give respect.

I think I had sent a message to quite a number of teachers. I sincerely hope that they understood my message and be better teachers. I am not trying to say I am the best teacher but I am still improving myself.

The dinner ended with a lot of handshakes and photographs taken.
To be continued

The Elated Feeling

2008-03-09T00:56:00.000-08:00

This is part 2 of the assembly.

After the final few words by the headmaster, the pupils were asked to line up to give gifts or whatever little stuff they had to the teachers; me and the other two lady teachers.

The line started with the standard 6. You would not believe what I experienced adn felt. They all came to me with gifts, presents, little items as momentoes. One monitor of 6B came up with a little box and told me that it was a watch from the class. My heart was heavy and sad as I received it. I could only thank him. The others came only to me and handed me the gifts. The other teachers were shocked and probably embarassed.

Next the head of the staff club came up with yet another gift; another little box. She said that it was a watch from the staff club. I thnked them from the bottom of my heart.

Hectic and confused

2008-03-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

The phone call was on Tuesday and I had to report the following Monday to join the course in KL.

So with three days, I had to update the Physical Education stock and manage the store. On top of that I had to clear all the exercise books. I was teaching PE and English then.

During the three days, I was totally in a daze running around from all those tasks and controlling the emotions of the pupils. Every now and then some pupils would come with sad and teary eyes begging me not to leave. I was really exhausted.

After school, I had to manage another burden, the family. Your mum was really down and sad. I knew that in another two months time, I would be leaving for another country to study; that is UK. The questions were numerous; how to manage your sisters and you, where are they going to study, and how about after school?

In addition, she (your mum) had to drive to school. All this while, we had only one car, the faithful Daihatsu. She would always go with another colleague and I would pick her up after school. Now she would have to drive to school. Can she manage it?

In school, all the tasks were completed by Friday and I was really glad then.

In the classes, there was no mood and no interest in the lesson. Most of the time I was trying to calm the kids and telling them to be brave and work hard.

Friday evening came and there was a special assembly just before school was over. All the pupils (1500 of them) were assembled in the school hall with the teachers on the stage. It was actually the farewell for me and two other teachers who were going to join the Teachers' Training Colleges. The headmaster gave his speech and the pupils waited. The two lady teachers were called to give a short speech. All was in control

I was finally called to deliver a speech. I was choked with emotion but I tried. I started of with a few words and advised the pupils to work hard but I could not go on. The reason was simple; the classes I was teaching then started sobbing and crying their hearts out. This spread like wild fire and soon all the kids were rubbing their eyes and sobbing; some quietly but some outwardly. The most surprising thing was, even the boys who were rough and who were frequently punished were sobbing away.

That was it. I could not stand it. I cried and my heart broke. The other teachers beside me asked me how I could have touched their hearts to that extend. I could not answer because I was confused.

The headmaster ended the assembly with a few word I could not remember anymore. I also noticed that the parents and the school bus drivers were at the doors of the hall. I bet they must have been confused as to why such a commotion was about.

To be continued. Keep reading.

To accept or Not

2008-03-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a really difficult decision to make. To accept or not to accept, that was the question.

I had no one to consult at that very moment. We did not have mobile phones then and it was not easy to contact even your mum's school. Even if you were able to get through, there would be a long wait for her to answer. Would the school allow that?

But I also asked the officer or rather said that the course had already started and why I was called. She said that one of the participants could not make it so, there was a vacancy.

With that answer, and without hesitation, I accepted the offer.

The clerks at the office nodded and smiled, knowing that that was a chance of a lifetime. I thanked them for being so helpful and taking the trouble to call me even though I was at the other end of the school.

You see, I really believe that my lucky stars are always shining. And my friendly character would and will always bring foutune; in all aspects.

The pupils in my classes came to know that I would be leaving them soon. That afternoon, during classes, the little boys and girls came with teary eyes and sad faces. They asked and asked me why I was leaving them. They begged and begged me not to leave them.

My heart was heavy and deeply troubled because I was also unwilling to abandon them. I had been teaching them since Year 1 or rather seen them growing up. In fact, most of them were very attached to me because I was also the coach for their athletic team and the softball teams.

Jensen, if you now understood my situation, how would you feel.
To be continued.

Life...

2008-02-29T18:58:00.000-08:00

Life is full of obstacles, uncertainity, and test of patience. There is a saying "life is not a bed of roses". I am sure it means a lot to many people. Inteprete it in many ways too. When you least expect it, we are faced with unexpected events and we have to overcome them.
Jensen, my boy, I was in such a situation way back in 1993.
Let me tell you a little tale or a long tale.
You were only 4 years old then.

At that time I was still in the primary school busy with school work. I was in the afternoon sssion but as usual I had to attend to the school extra classes in the morning.

The office boy came running to the class telling me that there was a very urgent and important call from KL. I was surprised; maybe from the income tax department or some department asking for my particulars. Did I forget to pay my taxes?
Anyway, I answered the call. It was from the Department for Higher Education. The person in charge, a lady asked me if I want to accept the offer to take up the course in KL, inpreparation for the Degree programme in UK.

I had actually applied for the course and because there was no news from the relevant authorities, I assumed that I was unsuccessful. So I made up my mind to put full commitment in my work in helping the pupils academically and in sports.

If you were in my shoes, would you accept the offer,; knowing that you have to leave your family? There were your mum, your two elder sisters and you and whole lot of burden.

To be continued

What a rainy day?

2008-02-28T05:42:00.000-08:00

It was a day of misfortunes or rather unpredictable turnout. The qualifying sports was supposed to take part early but had to be called off due to the weather. The rain came in drizzle causing some discomfort. To prevent any mishaps, it was called off.
Then the weather was clear after about two hours. The students and teachers were called to carry on with the planned event. Halfway through the exciting events, the rain came again, this time heavier. We had to postpone it until tomorrow.
Will it be better tomorrow?
I hope so because we want to finish this task as soon as possible.