Near my house, there are several kindergartens, most of which are private. Today, as I was returning from my exercise, one of the kindergartens was holding outdoor games for the children, so I stayed to watch. Among the games was a sack race. Five children, both boys and girls around 2-3 years old, were chosen to stand in sacks, and when the horn sounded, they all jumped forward.
However, one little boy only managed to jump two steps before stopping. Despite the teacher's encouragement, he just stood still while the other four children had already reached the finish line and were about to jump back. I thought the teacher might let the boy stop, but instead, she carried him in the sack, helping him step by step to reach the finish line. On the return journey, the little boy completed the distance on his own without any help.
Watching this scene, I was reminded of my experience at four years old when I first started kindergarten. I can't remember exactly which day it was, but after only a few sessions, my teacher hit me on the head and sent me home because I had bitten my pencil and broken the lead. After that day, whenever school was mentioned, I would cry and resist so much that my mother had to transfer me to another school, which was twice as far from home.
I had forgotten that memory for a long time, but recalling it today still stings my heart. I wonder if that action created a harmful belief in the child within me that I was not allowed to make any mistakes in life.
This just shows how crucial the ethics and understanding of a guide or educator are. If their awareness is limited and their hearts lack compassion, they might unintentionally harm many generations. Like the story of the four-year-old who didn't know how to use a pencil sharpener, got punished, and struggled for years with the belief that 'I must always be right to be loved.'
If only all teachers were like the one I saw this morning, society would have more outstanding individuals. Because a child's development depends not only on the knowledge imparted but also greatly on how they are respected and loved. The early years lay the foundation for their character and beliefs about the world. If they are surrounded by people who always encourage, support, and are gentle with them, they will grow up with a robust, confident soul.
And this is not just the responsibility of educators but of every adult in nurturing the child within themselves. If you want to be more successful, confident, and happier, start by trusting, respecting, and loving yourself. When your journey is accompanied by faith and love, you will overcome any challenge.
