DNA Tan

Teaching beyond books

Came across a post on Facebook by an ex-student's Mum. The message that was written on the exam paper struck a heavy chord in me. This student was predominantly a gymnast more than a student, considering her dedication and long hours of training on a daily basis. Frequent competitions also meant that her time for rest and studies is greatly reduced. Despite the immense pressure from her peers, she worked very hard to fight for time to study, often ended up in tears. But was more commendable was that she has the fighting spirit in her to ride against the current and finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

It dawned on me that the battle for academic excellence is actually secondary to having a strong fighting spirit. The courage to persevere and the spirit of not giving up is primary to achieving success in life. In sports, academics and eventually working in the society, we need this fighting spirit to see us through in all different phases of our life.