My Nursery Teacher Journey.
My journey, marked by the courage to face fear and the resilience to combat loneliness, is a testament to my unwavering determination. I continually push my boundaries, pondering what more I can achieve, a question I revisit several times yearly.
As I shared in my previous blogs, I started teaching or tutoring elementary and high school students online and offline. I even mentioned how nervous I was about this path, as I know that child teaching and guidance require infinite forbearance.
Here's a quick story about my part-time job that carved a chapter in my life. In November 2023, I got hired in a neighborhood nursery. By the way, I asked permission from my full-time job employer.
Starting with zero experience, I humbly expressed my willingness to learn and work from scratch. All I could offer was my unwavering commitment and dedication to do the job well. With a clear intention and a sprinkle of luck, I was hired.
The first month was the hardest; my health was challenged every two weeks, my language barrier broke the high walls, and my teaching career flourished.
My enjoyment of the job was amplified by the presence of my senior colleagues, who were friendly and patient in teaching me. Their support gave me the confidence to always count on them in trouble. What added to that was that my senior colleague had worked with Cebuanos and knew our culture. A feeling of relief kept me holding on to continue growing in this job.
Squash - good for the eyes. The side dishes were the exciting part.
Curry rice for a bit of spice in cold weather.
Fish is one of the tastiest. My rice and meat were less than the other. I requested it mainly because I cannot work at my best when I am too full, and it is hard to work when you're asleep.
By the way, my meal is only 200 yen. Doesn't this look like 1,000-1,500 yen? Itadakimasu!
My meals are so well-balanced. I am forever grateful to the management and chefs for keeping us healthy.
Unfortunately, months passed, and I left. I was faced with a dilemma between guilt and dreams, and I chose guilt. My dreams will always be there, and I will pursue them.
The four-month experience taught me these things:
- Your capacity is far beyond what you can imagine.
- This job involves so much trust: parents to Teachers, vice versa, and most importantly, parents to children. Parents trust their children to do their best, as they will for a brighter future.
- Grab every little hope you see.
In this short nursery work journey, I AM READY TO TEACH PRESCHOOLERS and TODDLERS. My first couple of tries may be challenging. However, I will make sure my learning process is close to perfect.
We had a school-ender/farewell dinner. I had a good night's chat with them.
A farewell flower that I am humbled to be part of their team.