After I subbed 8 periods for 5 days in a row, I was exhausted. I bearly can wake up in the morning and apparently it affected my routine. Now after more than one week, I feel much better. These 2 days are 1st midterm for the kids. I got to proctor and support urgent matters. That’s life. I am still considering about renew the contract or not. Sometimes I am glad that my competency and ability have been recognized, but sometimes when I did too many admin jobs, I almost forgot that I AM A TEACHER. I feel like I am s special assistant to the school executives.

Something about Jessica and Grace… The other day, Jessica texted me and asked for a treat. Since I needed to go back to Taichung, I texted her that I will do it during the tomb-sweeping holidays. A few days ago, I texted her. She had a very weird conversation with me. I, thus, texted Grace about not mentioning anything I have done, such as dining at Teppanyaki restaurant and sending her the chicken essence. I trust her that she did not talk to anyone about my personal matters, but I really didn’t know why people wanna mentioned her and sort of comparing. Anyway, no matter what people said, Grace is always one of the most important supporters in my life who plays multiple roles as a teacher, a mentor, and a good friend of mine. I never and will never forget this. I become a “friendly” teacher because of the influence from her. I try to be warm, calm, and firm like her. These facts will never be changed. Also, I am hilarious that she told me that she is proud of me. This is an endorsement for me.

Recently, I have been trying to validate my identities. I think about who I am, why I would like to become a teacher, am I moving on the right track…. Luckily, I got a 7 out of 10, and I like my life in Taichung. However, I am still not sure if I renew the contract, I can fulfill it. This is why I am hesitating.

Then, I was always subbing for classes. Yesterday when I walked into the classroom, all the kids were so excited and extremely happy. (歡聲雷動) They told me their teacher was so MEAN and the first question they asked was ” Teacher, are you very 兇?” I was laughing with a mask covering my face. I do enjoy interacting with the kids. They even said Teacher, I am your “little chicken” and made some origami for me as gifts. Their actions were so cute! This is why I certainly don’t believe “talented students are trained by a strict teacher (嚴師出高徒)” and folk wisdom of “ beating means love, scolding means affection.” Never ever!!! Honestly, I, myself, am a totally opposite example.