reflections of a teacher

I just came from the First National Teacher Education Research Congress held at City Sports Club, Cebu City and sponsored by Cebu Normal University in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education. It was attended by almost two hundred educators from around the country. It is the first of its kind specifically because it is designed for teacher education researches. The role I played was pretty minor since I was part of the invitation and technical committee. But, I was given the chance to talk to all the VIPs because I was going to assist them in their powerpoint presentations.

Dr. Carolina C. Porio requested for a pointer for her presentation, Dr. Paz I. Lucido oriented me on how we are to go about her slides, Dr. Purita P. Bilbao came in to check with me if her presentation was ready and Dr. Brenda B. Corpuz asked for my assistance. The list could go on and on as there were guests from all over the country. To many, these names would not ring a bell but when you are in the field of education --- in the field of teacher education to be more specific, these people are considered to be pillars. I only know them as authors of my education books but for the last two days, I was able to interact with them as if I was just another colleague. I was amazed by their humility and humbled by their greatness. I say they are great not because of the distinctions that they have received all throughout the years but because during their presentations, you can really hear and feel the conviction they have to help alleviate the depressing condition of education in the country through the various key roles that they were privileged to hold in teacher education organizations. For a moment, I felt the urge to go up to them and ask for their autograph and also ask them to pose in a picture with me. Then, Dr. Cabalquinto called my attention and asked my opinion about a speech she was preparing.

It was then when it hit me. The greatest teachers in my life are not they whom I have met in the congress but they are they who have walked with me through my journey as a child, student and teacher. I am not saying that the other teachers are less than those whom I am referring to. All I am saying is that, conviction for quality education was something I always felt from my teachers. My greatest teachers are not only those who taught me about education but also about life.

If I were to pose with "celebrities", I'd pose with my mother who has taught me everything I know about enduring love and the value of hard work. I'd pose with my Auntie Amay who inspired in me the love for the teaching profession and instilled in me the essence of professionalism and love of one's vocation. I'd pose with Ms. Aguiman, Dr. Destura, Ms. Gonzalez and my other elementary teachers who saw potential in a child who fails in prompt requirement submissions. I'd pose with Mr. Bacalso, Mrs. Otero, Ms. Torreon, Mrs. Canono and my high school teachers who ventured with me in other fields other than the academe. I'd pose with Dr. Cabalquinto, Dr. Dayagbil, Mr. Corales, Dr. Abao, Ms. Gacasan, Mrs. Lopez and my other college instructors and professors who taught me much of what I know about education.

I'd pose with the Lord when I get to His throne someday because I may be one of those who are most difficult to teach but He has never given up me.

Today is one day truly well spent. I am exhausted and feeling rather unwell but my heart is full and my passion for teaching burns bright.

To all my teachers, thank you. <3