Throughout my long career in teaching, I forged countless connections. While I grew particularly close to some students and junior teachers, I always prioritized fairness and honesty above all. This wasn't merely a personal belief, but a universal value I firmly believed all educators should uphold.
During exam grading periods, this conviction only strengthened. No matter how close I was to a student, I couldn't award high marks for answers that didn't meet the criteria. For instance, when I asked students to choose and write about 5 out of 20 given points from the Bible, some would only memorize the 5 I had emphasized in class. If I specified they should write about different ones, I had no choice but to deduct points, even if it pained me to do so.
This attitude might have led some to perceive me as rigid. However, I was convinced this was the path to maintaining integrity and fairness. Over time, I believe this principle influenced those around me. Through my example, they likely learned the value of honesty and the importance of fair assessment.
In retrospect, my approach may have seemed inflexible at times. But I believe it was the way to fulfill my responsibility as an educator. In life, adhering to principles can sometimes feel difficult and lonely. Yet, it's what ultimately shapes us into better individuals and positively impacts those around us.
My teaching career taught me many lessons, with the value of honesty and fairness being the most significant. These virtues extend beyond the classroom, serving as crucial tenets in all aspects of our daily lives. I hope that through these values, I exerted a small influence on my students and colleagues. And I fervently wish that they, in turn, will contribute to creating a better society through these principles.
These experiences have profoundly influenced my entire life. Even in my academic journey, these principles remained constant. As a theologian, there were times when I had to challenge existing notions with new interpretations, and other times when I needed to respect traditional values. In such instances, I strived to maintain my convictions while listening to others' opinions, always seeking balance.
Ultimately, this approach to life has made me a richer, more profound individual. While staying true to my principles was often a lonely and challenging path, the insights and growth I gained in the process became invaluable assets. Moving forward, I will continue to cherish these values, always learning and growing.
During exam grading periods, this conviction only strengthened. No matter how close I was to a student, I couldn't award high marks for answers that didn't meet the criteria. For instance, when I asked students to choose and write about 5 out of 20 given points from the Bible, some would only memorize the 5 I had emphasized in class. If I specified they should write about different ones, I had no choice but to deduct points, even if it pained me to do so.
This attitude might have led some to perceive me as rigid. However, I was convinced this was the path to maintaining integrity and fairness. Over time, I believe this principle influenced those around me. Through my example, they likely learned the value of honesty and the importance of fair assessment.
In retrospect, my approach may have seemed inflexible at times. But I believe it was the way to fulfill my responsibility as an educator. In life, adhering to principles can sometimes feel difficult and lonely. Yet, it's what ultimately shapes us into better individuals and positively impacts those around us.
My teaching career taught me many lessons, with the value of honesty and fairness being the most significant. These virtues extend beyond the classroom, serving as crucial tenets in all aspects of our daily lives. I hope that through these values, I exerted a small influence on my students and colleagues. And I fervently wish that they, in turn, will contribute to creating a better society through these principles.
These experiences have profoundly influenced my entire life. Even in my academic journey, these principles remained constant. As a theologian, there were times when I had to challenge existing notions with new interpretations, and other times when I needed to respect traditional values. In such instances, I strived to maintain my convictions while listening to others' opinions, always seeking balance.
Ultimately, this approach to life has made me a richer, more profound individual. While staying true to my principles was often a lonely and challenging path, the insights and growth I gained in the process became invaluable assets. Moving forward, I will continue to cherish these values, always learning and growing.
