Along time ago, whilst I was still in primary school, our class teacher told us that in order to wish for success and good things for the new month, you had to say rabbit, rabbit, rabbit on the minute you woke up on the first day of the month. As I woke up this morning, I said this and then did my morning prayers. This teacher, who I have stayed in contact with since 1994 left an indelible mark in my heart and as a student in primary school i was always touched by the warmth, generosity and the extra mile that our educators took in teaching us and walking with us.
Nearly two decades later, I find myself in the position where I am required to show the warmth and kindness to the hundreds of children our programs are impacting. Going back to those many years I have very fond memories of our primary school, the study trips we took to the museum,heroes acre, nature game parks and many more. Our teacher would put in the effort to ensure that we have exposure and that we see the world. For some of us coming very poor backgrounds this was the only excursion that we could enjoy and thus we looked forward to these every single time.
I am grateful to my 4th grade teacher not only for opening up my world view but also for affording this poor child a chance to realize that dreams and aspirations can be met if only a person decides to work hard.
As a person who did not have the opportunity to go to an early education centre, I have grown to realize that there are many things that I missed out on. The learning through play, establishing friendships and developing various skills would have helped for sure. I am privileged and honored to do the work I do, touch the lives we do and ensure that every little kid has the opportunity to access early education as well as supplementary feeding so that they grow into responsible citizens not only of Zimbabwe but of the world.
To my 4th grade teacher, words are not enough to thank you for all you did for the whole class and for believing in us!
Blessings,
Patrick
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