Opinion | The Teacher Beyond the Classroom: Recognizing my Mentor on World Teachers’ Day

In the river of time, memories can drift away, but some stay anchored in our hearts. I hold close those moments when my mentor pushed me to do better, even if it meant a scolding for not finishing my homework. I still cherish for that locked room where I could see nothing but books around me. I remember those nights of studying by candlelight. These moments, small at the time, paved my path as what I am today. This article is a tribute to my mentor Mr Javeed Ahmad Kumar, who ignited my thirst for knowledge.
In life, we find someone who lights our way, a mentor. Often, teachers claim this role, but for me he was not just a teacher but more than an elder brother who tirelessly worked to make my future brighter. Looking back, I now understand how he shaped my life, even when he had to use a stick on my trembling hands.
My mentor wasn’t just a teacher; he was a source of wisdom and discipline. He believed in excellence and wouldn’t accept less. Incomplete homework was a no-go in his book, and this drive for perfection became a part of our daily lives.
One memory stands out—the lesson of discipline during those freezing winter days. I can still feel his hands trying to warm my cold fingers. Back then, it felt like punishment, but now I see it as a lesson in resilience and enduring discomfort for a greater goal.
His lessons in discipline weren’t confined to our home. He spent countless hours ensuring I did well in school. He patiently explained tough topics until I understood, sometimes using that stick to emphasize a point. These lessons continue to guide me, not just in writing but in life.
Looking back, he was a mentor who saw my potential before I did. He sparked a hunger for knowledge in me that have grown over time. His faith in my abilities pushed me to do my best in everything.
Today, as I look at my journey and who I’ve become, I’m filled with gratitude. The sticks he used on my hands weren’t meant to be cruel; they were tools for my growth. They molded me into someone who values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of knowledge.
His art of teaching was literally unique and effective. He regularly organized class tests and quizzes that make us prepared at the time of exams and sometimes gave the rewards to top performers to keep us motivated. What made his teaching truly special was his meticulous preparation, where he analyzed the syllabus thoroughly and devised specific strategies to make complex topics more understandable. However what set him apart was his ability to add humor into his lessons, using jokes and anecdotes to engage our interest and make learning process more enjoyable. His teachings not only helped us excel academically but also instilled a deep love for learning and thirst of knowledge in us, making our educational journey both successful and enjoyable
I often wish for those days when he was my mentor. I long for one more lesson, one more piece of advice, and yes, even one more stick on my hands. Those moments, though tough back then, are now cherished memories.
As time flows and memories fade, the lessons and love my mentor shared remain in my heart. I’m forever thankful for his influence. To my mentor, and my friend—thank you for the invaluable lessons that made me who I am today.
In conclusion, a teacher should embody patience and approachability when interacting with students. They should use smart ways to explain tricky things, ensuring that every student can grasp and absorb the material. Moreover, having a mentor, whether it’s a teacher, a sibling, or someone else, plays a significant role in a student’s growth and development. Mentors provide guidance, support, and inspiration, making a profound impact on their lives. Ultimately, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment in which students feel valued and encouraged is key to successful teaching and learning.
To my mentor, Mr. Javeed Ahmad Kumar
I was a small stream, you made me an ocean
I was a dead seed, you made me a blossom
I was an unlit candle, you made the shining sun
The writer can be reached at jaansaahi069@gmail.com