Thursday 19 September 2013

What is going on?!

Now that I have finished my lessons  and have some time for myself, I just want to sit down and share my thoughts with you about the last events in Greece.

Two days ago, a young man lost his life by someone who is a member of Golden Dawn (the extreme right party of our Parliament) because of his beliefs. It was a shock for me like for thousands of my country people and the first emotion that emerged in me was anger!!! Anger because I realise that we do not live in a free country. Yes, my country is not occupied by some conquerors! Yes, we have democracy and we vote for our government and the parties of our Parliament! But how can we claim that we are free since our rights to our beliefs get violated and people get beaten or lose their lives for that?

I strongly support everyone's right to have their political views as long as they do not violate my rights. History has proved that extreme political views lead to violence, human rights abuse. I am sorry but I just don't get it... Haven't they heard of Hitler? Haven't they heard of dictatorships? What makes them believe that they can enforce their policy and views? Trying to rule the other with force cannot last. It has an expiration date. It is a fact.

I pity those people. They don't realise that they are pawns in somebody's political games. They are not free to think for themselves. I know that crisis has led many people to impoverishment. Poverty can make you lose your dignity, change your principles. It is our choice which direction we take.  Should we blame the others or should we change the situation?

Greece, I am sorry but you have to take action! Stop staying numb and moaning... Nobody is going to save you! It is your duty to the generations to come, the young generations NOW!




Monday 16 September 2013

Sacrifices... are they worthwhile?

As I was expecting, Theodora Papapanagiotou was the first to ask and encourage me to start writing in my blog. I had no doubts. She is always there to urge people and support them. I guess it is in a teacher's nature...

Since I am a teacher and an owner of a language school, she wants to know if I can respond to all responsibilities at the same time. Well... the answer is simple.... No, I can't....Although I want to believe and try, it is impossible for me and I admire those who can meet the expectations. One thing or another must be sacrificed.... We should not forget that teachers are human beings; we have perfections and flaws, our own personalities, family, social and educational background.

I must admit it... at the age of 30s, when I took over the business ( a language school is still a business), I was determined to succeed. I was sure with hard work and responsibility I could make it to the top!!! My priority of course were my students; their studies, their success in the exams, to teach, to support , encourage them. Business came second. I was sure (and still am) that the results of my students will be the best advertisement of my work. But this is not the case... I soon realised that all my colleagues have good results, we all do good work and all our students (and their parents, of course) are pleased with and love us... So, I reached the point to make a decision.... which part should I sacrifice??? Teaching or business???
Well, I had already sacrificed my personal life... I missed my daughter's childhood. When she was at nursery and elementary school, I was at home and when she returned, I had to leave for my lesson. How many times did I have to miss concerts, performances? I couldn't take up an activity or learn a hobby. I am thankful to my family for their understanding and support but still I was not pleased...

Now, at the age of 40s (call it the 40s crisis?), I look at my priorities from another perspective. I have decided to sacrifice the business woman in me. I love teaching, I love sharing knowledge. I know that I contribute to somebody's education, the ever lasting investment. I realised due to the crisis that they can take you everything but they can't take your knowledge and experiences. It is time to devote some time for myself, my own evolution, my family.

I still run my business but it is not my priority. Times are hard and the best we can do is to have a good time in the classroom. I have decided to enjoy the school year with my students. At least, we will have the time of our lives!!! Any more questions???