Today began with a familiar and friendly routine—being picked up by Mas Ulum for my teaching duty. Before heading to MI Tarbiyatul Banat, we first dropped off the student teachers from SMP NU1. The morning air was calm, and it felt like a perfect day to create more memories in the classroom.
As soon as we arrived at MI Tarbiyatul Banat, I was greeted by the teachers and students with genuine smiles and warm handshakes. Their hospitality always touches my heart. I made my way to the office to greet Bu Inda, the principal of the school. We shared a pleasant conversation with a few teachers, talking about Filipino culture—particularly our traditions during Holy Week. I explained how we observe fasting, prayer, and self-sacrifice, which deeply resonated with them as it mirrors the practices during Ramadan in Islam. It was a beautiful moment of cultural exchange, where faith and understanding bridged our different worlds.
By 7:00 AM, I was already in Kelas 2 for class observation with Bu Iin. The subject was English Day, a special program designed to help students build a foundation in basic English before transitioning into Bahasa Inggris lessons. I introduced a Filipino children’s song called "Sampung mga Daliri." As I guided the class through the song, I noticed a student sitting quietly with her mother beside her. Curious, I walked over and greeted them. The mother kindly introduced herself and explained that her daughter is diagnosed with autism.
That moment moved me deeply. The dedication and presence of the mother, sitting beside her child in class, was a powerful testament to the unconditional and incomparable love of a mother. It reminded me that behind every learner is a story—and often, a silent hero making sure that learning continues despite life’s challenges.
After spending an hour with Kelas 2, I moved to Kelas 3, where the atmosphere was full of energy and eagerness. One student immediately handed me her English book and asked, “Miss, can you teach me this?” I asked for permission from Bu Iin to teach a short lesson, and the teacher gladly agreed. I taught them English prepositions, and the students were so enthusiastic—they participated actively, asked questions, and enjoyed the examples I shared. Before the bell rang, I had finished the lesson, and to my joy, the students were already looking forward to the next session.
Kelas 3 felt more academically focused than Kelas 2, yet both had their own charm. Kelas 2 students were more playful, chatty, and expressive—they love to dance, sing, and move around, which makes it easy to incorporate psychomotor activities into their learning.
On our way back to the office, we passed by Kelas 5 to check on them. To my surprise, as soon as I stepped into the room, the students quickly positioned themselves and performed a delightful song and dance number just for me. That simple yet thoughtful gesture completed my day. They, too, were excited and hopeful that I would come back to teach them Bahasa Inggris. It was such a heartwarming surprise that left me smiling.
Back in the office, I turned to Bu Iin and told her, “What happened today is something money cannot buy—it’s made of pure, happy memories that I can only gain here in this country, in this school.”
As the clock neared noon, it was time for me to return to my homestay. While I was at the canteen, a kind parent who had been waiting for her daughter offered to give me a ride. I hesitated at first, not wanting to inconvenience her, but she insisted—and with Bu Iin’s approval, I accepted. On the ride back, I reflected on how deeply I’ve been cared for and treated with kindness since I arrived. From the teachers and mothers to the school head—everyone has shown me such warmth and respect.
Today was more than just a day of teaching—it was a day of connection, culture, compassion, and joy. I am beyond grateful for the experiences I’m collecting here, the stories I’m hearing, and the love I’m receiving. These moments will forever remain etched in my heart, carried with me for a lifetime.
