An Unexpectedly Heart-warming Gesture

My heart is full. I was taken aback by the warm gesture of my 10-year old Vietnamese student (initiated by his mom) whom I am teaching English. I received a message from him this morning that  read: 

November 20, 2024 is Teacher's Day in Vietnam. I shared the screenshot of my student's message to my employer and she responded encouragingly saying, "Yes, it's alright to receive their gift." I also learned that the Vietnamese have high regard to their teachers. Gift giving is their way of expressing their gratitude. In the Philippines, the same act of appreciation is also extended to the teachers by their students. When I was still in school, I remembered giving  tokens to my advisers. The entire school would also prepare a short program to honor them.

In the previous company I worked for, every English as Second Language (ESL) tutor was not allowed to receive any gift (whether cash or in kind) from his or her students. They have stricter rules we needed to follow in accordance to its Data Privacy Policy. I had several offers then, but I had to politely decline. One student even wanted to send money for an e-scooter after he found out about my disability. "For gratuity and your convenience," he insisted. Another sent a souvenir from Tokyo Disneyland, when her entire family enjoyed a short trip there. This I gladly accepted. It was then sent to my home address. 

Being a teacher is one of the most rewarding jobs in the industry. Some may find it outlandish. However, I find fulfilment especially when I see the student's growth - no matter how slowly. In the process, I feel proud that I was partly responsible for the abilities he or she has gained in the course of time. It requires a great deal of labor, persistence and patience that emanates from the desire to be better.