I don’t know what the best compliment is, but I have experienced happy moments. For example, when my kids and bloggers say to me, “You are the best mom.” The other moment is when I was a teacher trainee.
Over 20 years ago, I practiced teaching at high school. I made teaching plans, taught in the class, assisted students’ after-school activities, and cleaned the toilets every day.
Life as a teacher trainee in Japan is hard (it depends on the school and supervisors). I completed the training, but some trainees quit halfway through.
On the first day as a teacher trainee, my supervisor said to me that you have to be tough. Ok, but how? Soon I understood how to be. Almost every day I had received negative feedback from my supervisor. The university professor also came to observe my class for grading. I was under pressure until the last day. 🙄
On the last day, my students (*kohai 後輩/junior) wrote their messages on the blackboard: “Thank you for your hard work!”, “We really respect you, *senpai (先輩/senior)!” and “I want to be a teacher like you!”…
I didn’t know that they were preparing for me. I was impressed. 🙂
*I did a teacher training at the school where I graduated. Senpai also means someone who has a higher level and experience at school, workplace, or social organization.
Since 2011, I have been teaching Japanese in America. I have received monthly feedback from learners. When I read positive comments, I feel happy.
ありがとう(Thank you)! 🙏
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