A letter to all teachers

Dear Teacher,

My name is The Child, and I am one of your pupils. I feel so hurt as I write this letter and I truly hope that my intentions for writing it will not be misconstrued. Please, do not stop reading this letter until you reach its very end. Trust me; I have some very important things to say to you.

First, you are my role model. Keep in mind that I look up to you for direction and exemplary leadership on this planet, even if I’ve never said it. I know I have quite a lot to learn. So, I want you to teach me all I need to know to become wise and successful, just like you. No doubt, it may take plenty of work to teach me, but hey, I always learn in the end. Can I tell you something? I learn better when I’m taught sacrificially, and believe me; I rarely forget teachers who do all to make sure I succeed.

Hmm, of course, I know you have your own worries and challenges too. Every adult does. But children appreciate adults who do not make them suffer for their challenges. We love adults who love us despite their difficulties. Oh, by the way, please stop expecting me to think and behave as adults do. It’s unfair because I’m not wired to function as an adult but as a child. I will continue to work hard to impress you, even though you seem to get irritated by my actions most times so easily. Sometimes, you even yell at me, and it really hurts. There are times when you assault me physically, just for behaving like a child. Sometimes, I wonder if it’s a sin being a child?

Have you ever stopped to think that, I was actually designed to be loved and cared for? I love attention, so I yearn for it, especially whenever I feel ignored. Sometimes, I even do naughty things in the hope that you’d notice me. Trust me; I never intend to make your life miserable. I’m only being childish and mean no harm at all. Remember, children will always be children.

We are designed for play. So, do not try to stop us from doing what we love to do most. In fact, if I were you, I’d use play to teach us. Playing is our identity and second nature. We cannot possibly survive without it. Can you please accept us as we are? If you do, we could become your greatest legacy.

Thank you for patiently reading my letter. It really means a lot to me.

Your loving Protégé,

The Child

By Olufemi Folaponmile (Teacher4Life)

Email address: [email protected]