Why I Miss Being a Teacher

Last Saturday was the celebration of World Teachers’ Day. I haven’t checked my messages on Facebook for more than a week, and when I did just now, I’ve seen some notes from my former colleagues and students, sending their warm greetings on the special day. Reflecting, I’ve realized it’s only this year ever since I graduated from college, that I am not in the classroom teaching.

 

My being a teacher certainly had its ups and downs, struggles and highlights but I could proudly say that deciding to be a teacher was the best decision I made, profession-wise (I am from Journalism background). Admittedly, being a teacher for 9 years did not earn me fat savings in my bank, but it did fill my heart with overflowing sense of purpose. I gave a part of myself to kids… and I believe I encouraged several to dream big. What could be better than that?

So what do I miss being a teacher?

1. I miss the morning and afternoon greetings from several kids.
2. I miss crafting lessons.
3. I miss igniting the spark of learning.
4. I miss being the lead learner, I miss acting to be very serious or funny when I needed to.
5. I miss receiving warm hugs (when I had the chance to be the substitute teacher for the little ones) and sweet notes (when I taught middle school)
6. I miss my former co-teachers. The conversations we had in between classes.
7. I miss the students.
8. And my list can go on and on….

I funnily remember how I handed my resignation to my former leader. I was crying. I was crying because I was in pain just by the mere thought of finally leaving the job I have loved dearly for years, but I just had to because it was the decision that me and my husband thought over and over for the family. We wanted to have another baby, we both wanted that I work from home so I could have more time for him and  our first born, and we both agreed that it was about time to finally give my first love a shot, writing.

Looking back, I know I made the right decision of becoming a work-at-home-mom (I have a happier family!)but deep inside, I feel this: I miss being in the classroom, I miss being a teacher. Right now, I am realizing that not being in the classroom still hurts me a little. Well I guess, it always will.