Extracts from Mr Chan Hian Youngs
Tribute to Teachers.
Today is Teachers Day and I would like to say a few words
Teachers are special. Next to parents, they have the greatest
influence during a childs formative years.
I am very blessed to have had great teachers. I can remember almost
every detail of a conversation with a teacher. It is not because I
have a particularly good memory. It is because a child (and anyone
below 18 is a child) holds on to every word that comes from the
mouth of the teacher. Sometimes, the teachers authority is greater
than that of the parent. Many a child is more anxious to please the
teacher than to please the parent. It may be difficult for teachers
to believe this, but children behave better in school than at home
or anywhere.
I will always remember what my teachers have taught me. I will
carry to my grave the knowledge that my teachers have
imparted.
I would like to thank every one who has taught me. Time does not
permit me to thank every one of you. I would like to thank even
those who have not taught me personally. At one level, I am
standing here as Chan Hian Young, ACPS Class of 1972, ACSS Class of
1976 and ACJC Class of 1978, paying tribute to the specific
individuals present and absent today who have taught me. But at
another level, I am standing here as the Timeless, Nameless and
Faceless Pupil thanking the Timeless, Nameless and Faceless
Teacher. Your pupils may or may not be here today. It does not
matter. I am thanking you on behalf of all the pupils you have
taught.
Thank you for having dedicated your lives to the teaching
profession so that we, whether or not we knew it then or know it
now, may be beneficiaries of your choice of profession. As you look
back in your retirement years, stand proud that your lives have
made a difference in the lives of your pupils. God bless all of
you.
Chan Hian Young
ACJC Class of 1978
