Argh no I've reached my Flickr photo limit for the month already! I've got so many more photos to upload. Now they'll have to wait till next month.
I feel like all my life I've been pressured to be more outgoing and outspoken- pressured by the education system and by people around me. The education system places emphasis on grooming leaders, people who are eloquent, outspoken a go-getter and active in many areas. My 12 years of schooling has only made me painfully aware of how I'm lacking in those qualities. No matter how I try, I can't quite be like that. Even when I speak up in class, do something that I think 'qualifies' me, I realise that my tone and manner itself shows that I'm not that kind of person. Perhaps it's simply because I can't let go of my nature. I'm saying this matter-of-factly, not with any bitterness towards the failings of the system or resentment towards those who have 'made it'. That's probably not the person I aspire to be. What character traits do I want in myself? Creativity, an open mind (not to discriminate!), love of life, compassion, strong morals and humility are the major ones.
I remember when I was a young girl my mum, as a gift to the four of us (my two brothers, my sister and I) wrote a single chinese character that she felt represented each of us on individual pieces of paper. Each of us had a different character. I think that there was much wisdom in that act. Isn't it much more interesting that people are different? My mum treasures us because each of us is unique. I think that's what school should do- recognise our individual qualities and strive to bring them out.
Hello world!
2 years ago
