About Joshua

About eight years ago, I started my teaching career for an English enrichment program for seven to ten years old children. At one day, I was told by one of the parent and the headmaster that one of my student was an autistic child. He was a new student in my class. His parents said that it was up to me on how I should teach him. They also hinted that I should give him a pinch if he doesn’t pay attention. I wouldn't do that. I tried to treat my students as my younger friends so they would speak in confident about what they like or dislike.

The little boy his name is Joshua. Joshua did make me curious to understand his behavior. He always turned his face away from me whenever I walked towards him or asked him a question. He would talk quietly to himself and moved his body to and fro. I didn’t expect him to answer my questions in class. I just wanted him to get familiar with me; in hope of that he would feel much more secure in every class meeting. Most of the times he never seemed to care and listened a word I said. He would turn away every time I sat beside him to give him task as i gave the rest of the class. But I knew and I was very sure that he actually listened to me and tried to do it as best as he could. Often times other students laughed at him and under estimated him. It’s probably because of his unique differences. I tried to teach them to respect each other and be helpful to each other. I always gave each of my students praise for trying to do the best for any task I asked them to do. This is including to Joshua.

Until one day, the exam results came out. One of my student got the highest score. It was Joshua! All of the other students in the class amazed by his achievement and praised him. We all gave him a big applause. That was the first time he started to looked at me in the eyes and smile. I cried a little. I was so proud of him. I still am today. I was so proud of how he worked so hard to change and proof himself. It was all because of love. And love set him free. Out of the shell for good. He became even more confident and happier child. I am proud of the other students, too. They finally learned to be good friends. Most of all, good supportive fellows. It was the most wonderful gift at that time from the God for me. It happened just in time when I had to leave my teaching career.

I will always remember you Joshua, with all my love.

by : Laksmira Ratna Bayuardi
    
      21 January 2010