LAST October 5, we celebrated World Teachers Day. The day went unnoticed without much fanfare. Sadly, it is quotidian as that: teachers are ordinary ‘unsung’ folks and, yet, they create all other professions, transforming and guiding those who choose the path to carry the torch of civilization forward.
Teachers share the greatest gift of knowledge to empower students for the betterment of humanity. Such nobility is not for the ordinary: it is for those whose profound mission is shaping the future, one mind at a time, by constantly outpouring their own knowledge, experience, patience, and spirit into others.
Teaching is not merely a job or a career path where competition for promotion, high recognition and huge wealth drives motivation. While many professions deal with tangible products or immediate results, teachers deal with the most precious human resources. The nobility of teaching is being selfless; giving one’s all without counting the cost.
I am a proud teacher.
Over five decades of active and stimulating engagements in various universities and corporations where I led and mentored thousands of students and employees to be the best of who they are and what they can do. I honed them to discover, invent and to grow.
I did not envision to be a teacher. I discovered my passion as an insight from the journey I took from the start; willed myself into it so that I could share and engage others to rise above themselves. That journey is its own reward.
From then on, I have not ceased to be a lifelong learner. My fruitful interactions with students made me whole. I was happy then and now. I do not only teach knowledge and skills; I share values that make life more meaningful for them.
Knowledge and skills are easily learned especially at this time and age; but life’s choices are lived metaphysically and requires full integrity.
The nobility of teaching
AT its core, teaching is an act of hope.
Every moment the teacher engages his students, they invest in their future that, alas, they may never see. They form character, not just teach facts and figures, but values, critical thinking, and sense of wonder. A great teacher creates an environment of mentoring, counseling, and cheerleading that make the unique sparks of students turn into flame. This requires an immense amount of empathy and resilience.
A teacher’s influence doesn’t end when the bell rings or when the semester concludes. It lives on in the decisions their students make, the careers they pursue, and the kindness they show others. In a constantly-changing world, the teacher remains a steady anchor, providing the foundation upon which all other professions are built. Doctors, engineers, and leaders all start in a classroom, guided by a teacher who believed in them. This is the enduring legacy of teaching.
Ultimately, to teach is to love. It is to love the truth, to love the process of discovery, and most importantly, to love the students. It is this love that transforms a simple lesson into a life-changing experience.
The nobility of the profession is not found in grand accolades or wealth, but in the quiet, transformative moments: a student finally understanding a difficult concept, a shy student finding their voice, or a graduate returning later to say: ‘Thank you for not giving up on me.’
These words, uttered in complete humility and denouement are just rewards money cannot value. Let me share some more from my former students.
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A former MBA student, now based in Singapore, called me by phone and said: ‘Sir, I really appreciate the lessons of life you shared with us in MBA-to be the best of who I am and what I can do.’
‘I am sorry have somewhat forgotten the financial skills you expertly taught us, but these words of encouragement and hope are the most valuable and will stay forever. Thank you so much.’
A former law school student wrote: ‘Sir, this semester has been an absolute pleasure. The way you teach, the way you are able to insert jokes and inspiring messages even as you talk about a subject most of us find intimidating, has been one of the better things of this semester.’
‘We will forever treasure the lessons you’ve taught us, and how, in a big way, you’ve helped us face our fears. No more fears, just understanding and appreciation. Thank you very much, Sir.’
I had an accident that broke my right ankle four years ago. At midnight, I was wheeled into the emergency of a medical center in Pasig. The orthopedic surgeon came in.
He introduced himself saying, ‘Sir, do you remember me? I was your MBA-MD student in Finance.’ He lifted up my spirits and helped restore my walking ability.
It was my turn to say ‘Thank you, doctor!’
Dr Cesar Azurin Mansibang was a senior corporate executive, educator and Dean of the College of Accountancy of Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc. and active officer and member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The views and opinions he expressed herein do not necessarily represent the BusinessMirror.