Happiness Journal 24/09/2025

My ex-colleague from my previous school sent me a photo to inform me that my ex-students had made it to the finals of the Spelling Bee this year. One of them was a veteran who had taken part in the Spelling Bee last year. Boy, did I train him hard for the competition. Glad to know that he has maintained his prowess in spelling words.

Another ex-colleague also texted me to say that another ex-student who has been avoiding school for the longest time actually showed up! She even took a photo of him grinning into the camera. I was his form teacher two years ago, so it was heartening to hear that he might be taking small steps to resume his education. I don’t have high hopes, but yes, a flicker of hope has been reignited.

I was happy to learn that my presence matters to these young people at least.