The catastrophic COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in the concept of Social distancing which may be the way ahead while we face this long drawn battle against that vicious and dreaded virus. And with the Schools and Colleges all closed due to the lock-down, the student community is for now grappling with distance learning by way of online classes. Like Social Distancing, distance learning will always be a necessity to deal with particular emergencies.
But nothing can replace the classroom education and the role our teachers play in moulding our future in the Temples of education and for that we always need to remember them with gratitude. All through school and up to the completion of my Law degree I was tremendously blessed with caring teachers who taught with hope, passion, motivation and a sense of direction. Throughout my student days they encouraged me in extra-curricular activities paving my way to participate in elocution, debating and essay contests besides leadership camps all along. Great teachers can make a big difference on our lives, for besides making a lasting impression in the classroom they can exert a positive influence in our life. My teachers were more than mere educators. They also played a role as a dear friend, counselor and mentor while I was a challenging and ever so adventurous student. Many of my dear teachers have over the years passed away but their fond memories will forever linger. A regular teacher may merely direct us along the right path, but great teachers inspire and challenge us to carve out our path in life. Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions. I shall always remain humbly and heavily beholden to all my dear teachers who imparted to me all their knowledge and guidance that has immensely helped me in all my, often lonely, crusades. To them all, ever so indebted, I shall always be. As Henry Brooks Adams, historian and politician once observed ‘Teachers affect eternity. No one can tell where their influence stops’. Bill Gates accurately opined that Technology is just a tool in terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, but that the teacher is the most important. Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: [email protected] Or [email protected] You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires www.airesrodrigues.com
