A few days back, in the morning I was travelling by rick. I was blown away by the knowledge of the rickshawaala as he analyzed the severe jamnabai traffic. He identified the cause -1 child/car, the need for compulsory bus service as well as detailed infrastructure reforms required. Pretty amusing huh!
Then he asked me what i do. As i got down from the rick, i showed to him my class of 50 kids on the footpath, excitedly waving to me with random shouts of "Good Morning Bhaiya" and flashing those contagious and relieving smiles. Some came running to give me a 'tummy hug'.(Thats what happens when someone is half your height....But somehow much more effective with its flavour of innocence..).
The rickshawaala looked inspired and deeply touched. He was so moved that he refused to take money from me initially as he folded hands in front of me as a gesture of appreciation and respect for what we do. This knowledgeable man, who seemed to have enough to speak about everything seemed speechless. But his expressions spoke volumes. Those expressions were a humungous compliment to me. Appreciation is always appreciated!!
I had to insist a lot to convince him to take the money for my ride.
I truly cherish the admiration and love i receive from all such people. Makes my already blissful teaching experience even more satisfying.
