If you look back on your education experience, you might remember a favorite teacher you might have had. Do you ever wish that you could have given her/him something, or make sure she/he got the right respect or honor that she/he deserved?
Well, in Thai culture, the schools celebrate Teacher Appreciation Day. On this celebration the students give flowers to the teachers to show their love and respect of them. The students carefully and tediously arrange the gifts; each little thing has a different meaning. (For example, the grass that they use in some of the baskets represents humbleness because it lets itself be stepped on and used.)
I had the great honor of helping a class of students arrange a basket for one of the teachers. I made many "leaf roses." The time was a great learning experience for the kids and me as we shared the meanings of things in both Thai and English.
The ceremony was held Thursday and all the students gathered in the big covered courtyard. The students sang songs and then sent two representatives from each class to give away their gifts. It was a really moving thing to watch the students give their respect to their teachers.
Afterward, the principal gave a speech to the students (our translator was kind enough to translate it for us). One of things I remember most from it was: "Don't forget to also honor your parents, for they were your first teachers. Remember your commitment you made today."
Please pray as we continue to build relationships with the students and the faculty.
-Liz
