Dare To Be DIfferent

Today we lose another exemplary teacher.

She is different.
She opts out at 55; to be of a greater guide to her son and companion to husband; to be available for them.
She keeps on ranting that she wants to be of least fuss and trouble to others; not even conceding to the plan of a normal farewell.
She wants it simple and it has touched the hearts of many.

Madam See Lay Hong , the Language Head of the school takes her final curtsy today.

A standing ovation from the staff of the school for her long years of service to the school; a good sixteen years...

The principal has long recognized her conscientious effort in looking after the affairs of the school from academic contributions to students' affairs and the nurturing of the orchids in the school garden.

Last evening, the principal and her board gave her a small treat in appreciation of her years of labour and guidance for the school.

Yes, we can decipher that the smile was right from the bottom of heart...

Oh...oh...oh won't you marry me?

This morning we could not let her go just like that; gifts poured out in love and appreciation. That's Puan Norhayati so unwilling to let her mentor go.

The head girl speaking on behalf of the school boys and girls...

She refuses to be treated; she wants to treat us. She says she appreciates us too...she is different; shy to receive but generous in giving.

The veteran Mr. Kang is a pal to her; but he sure knows her kindness.

The Media lady is a great friend of hers too; their common topic is food; all kinds from the drunken soldier to whatever...

Happy Birthday Madam See; why is the cake so high? She asked.

Look at the display of colours; rainbow, rainbow... may the days after this be filled with colours of the rainbow for her.

A special card for a special person from the hands of hundreds.

The children love her kindness, quiet guidance and constant help.

That's the final bell; 12.35pm.

Teachers are frantically following behind her; must you go?

A parade to send her off; a teacher so well-loved by all.

Students alike finding it unreal that she is leaving.

They had to let her go...

Always making herself available to help others in plight, Lay Hong will be missed by us. Her careful and thought ways will be remembered by many and especially by the Language department of the school. Her kindness and generosity spread wide and far in school. Even the gardeners and the clerks of the school know they have lost a kind friend.

True to her calling and vocation; she has lived up to the expectation of a teacher in its truest sense; that I reminded the younger teachers of the school. The youthful ones are to emulate her ways in her dedication and sense of responsibility in service.

The school has surely lost a good teacher.
Periachee whispered into my ears; sad la to see her go...

Esther Lau and John Chong; your English teacher has retired.