A HIGHER CALLING: The Teachers Core By: Marjorie Ann Sheena D.

Macarayo, RN One does not simply become a teacher by wishful thinking nor by spur-of-the-moment. A person whose goal is to become a teacher must recognize the hardships and challenges that come with pursuing such a profession, and a realization that being a teacher is so much more than a title in a name or a paycheck for survival. When looking for inspiration and motivation in the teaching profession, the following three philosophical maxims come into mind that together drives the perfect point inside a true teachers core. The measure of a great teacher is when he is surpassed by his students. Generally, a teacher teaches a student in order to impart knowledge (a one-sided affair). A better teacher, however, teaches not only knowledge to his students but also its purpose and proper application. The better teacher provides a broader perspective towards the reason behind such concepts of knowledge, which helps his students realize its importance to the world. As such, the students grow as both learners and persons, which is important for their foundation towards their future. Once they become successful, the purpose of the teacher is realized and perfected. The teacher leaves an eternal imprint into the lives of his students. It is always natural for a teacher to have another title towards his students as their second parent in school. Not only does a teacher have ample opportunities in impacting the lives of his students inside the classroom, but also outside of it as well. More often than not, a teacher permanently influences the lives of his students when he goes beyond the call of duty to help them. That is why even the most successful and powerful individuals in the world still acknowledges and respects their teachers, because they would not be enjoying such privileges if not for their teachers passionate efforts for them. There is no such thing as a dumb student, only a dumb teacher. Teachers are always prone to be blamed if a student is performing way below school standards, usually pointing at the efficacy of a teacher towards his job. Ideally, a teacher should do whatever he can in his power to help a struggling student in his subject by offering remedial classes or personal tutorial services. This is not always the case because the duties and paper works that come with being a teacher goes well beyond work hours. A compromise should be made between the needs of a struggling student and the duties of a teacher so as not to totally hamper the routine of both parties. That way, the idealism of helping a student out in the best way possible is still maintained and enforced. A teaching career is never known for its glamour and prestige. Rather, there is a higher calling in being a teacher, with its inherent nobility and fulfilling purpose that we should never forget!