Step 5: Treasuring the *Little Victories*

Living and teaching in a foreign country consists of highs and lows, ups and downs. There are some awesome days and there are some really rough days as well.

I have always been a firm believer in "seeing the glass half full," and I always have been a believer in *little victories*. However, recently, little victories have become even closer to my heart and are what keep me excited and enthused for the months ahead!

Even when classes do not go according to plan and students misbehave, or I get thrown an obstacle from left field, the little victories are what make me smile. And, I think at the end of the day the little victories altogether are what can be shaped into the greatest successes and the most amazing stories. I may be in a foreign country living an unfamiliar life, but I bet if you look, you have some little victories everyday in your life too!

For me, here in Malaysia, I write my little victories down as a reminder that yes, there are some low valleys, but there are also high peaks! They certainly bring a smile to my face, each and every time.

So, here are some of mine! Enjoy!

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Rachael's List of Little Victories


* April 12, 2012 
      I get to school and find an anonymous note on my desk that says, "Love u techer rassel!" (aka... I love you Teacher Rachael) 

Although it is lightly written, this is the anonymous note to
me from a student!


* April 12, 2012
     One of my 3D students said to me today, "Teacher, face so shiney like silver." 



* April 11, 2012
      My special education students can now officially say "Hello! How are you?!" and "I am good!" in English! 
One student can even say, "Good morning!" They also are well rehearsed in thumbs-up and the "air-five!"


* April 10, 2012
     I have been teaching my students about believing in their dreams and used the example of climbing Mount Everest. I told them that people practice, practice and practice to be able to climb it. I also told them that when people get to the top of the mountain they are able to say, "I'm on top of the world!" 

My 2B class holding up their English work,
"Who is Your Hero?"

     
So, today one of my 2B students said, "Teacher, I start train (aka start training). I go to Everest. I say "I'm on TOP WORD" 



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The list of course is to be continued...

Now, I challenge you to go find your own little victories no matter where you are or what you do!

My 4A2 class doing dialogue presentations!
They were very nervous and continue to be nervous about
speaking English! However, little by little, I am going to
break them out of their shell! Step 1: Simply getting them
to stand in front of class. Step 2: TBD