Our State once again will celebrate the Teachers Day, to not only commemorate the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakhrishnan but also honour all the teaching faculties of our schools, colleges, Universities and Bible Seminaries.
One of the greatness of Dr. S. Radhakhrisnan was his idealistic view. His education revolves around the training of man's soul in pursuit of what he called "The Second Birth". The ultimate goal of education is to be a true human being and finally to be in communion with his maker. As a teacher, imparting spiritual values too is of paramount importance. In this age of rat race where money mongers would do anything to achieve their lust, at the expense of others, our teachers especially in our state has a tremendous task at hand to impart moral values and Christian principles. I say Christian principles, because Christ Jesus was not only the saviour, but also a perfect role model for teachers. As a teacher he could communicate with his pupils wonderfully. He always spoke in parables to convey the heavenly messages. He had concern for the physi¬cal, social, emotional and spiritual needs of his pupils. His action followed his words. His was a holistic ministry. But the priority was always on spiritual needs of man. Unfortunately many today are too homely and too attached to this Earth. They want to be so comfortable in this short pilgrimage, not realizing that we are mere sojourners.
As our state too joins the country in honouring the teachers, it is quite befitting to recognize the humble labour of teachers all over the state. I have come across (with my little knowledge and contact) teachers who have really toiled unseen and unsung. They have tirelessly laboured, away from the limelight and applause. Sometimes, some of them instead of being thanked, have been misunderstood and even accused. Some have not only taught sincerely but also spiritually fed their students daily. I pay my highest respect and honour to these unsung heroes. Hats off!
At the same time, how many of us teachers can really claim such honours attributed to teachers on this day. Many times the emotional and spiritual needs are considered too private and a personal matter to c be discussed. Maybe that is for the Pastors, Church Youth leaders, Evangelists etc. At least, we could be a model of good example, if not feed their spiritual needs. But for some, teaching is a stepping stone for other jobs. Proxy teaching is openly practiced. It has ceased to be a profession. I have come across SOME Govt. teachers with beautiful vehicles come and go, while their poor wretched students too come and go, learning nothing. At least these children are our own people. Why have our hearts grown so cold?
I happen to help friend, who is a sincere and hard working Govt. teacher, for a chapel in his school. That fine morning, we were the first to reach the school even before the chowkidar arrived. As students and teachers were late (as usual) the chapel started behind schedule. I thought maybe I would be given the liberty to extend for a few minutes, but when the allotted time ended, one zealous teacher rang the bell (as if to convey that they are extremely time conscious and punctual). Anyway, it was the chowkidar's job to ring the bell. Embarrassed I abruptly ended my exhortation with a sincere prayer for the children. With the cold shoulder given to me, I realize I was an uninvited guest (though I knew that the students were blessed and my godly friend encouraged). This might be a rare incident in our schools, but such is our attitude to the spiritual needs of our children even in Christian state like ours. As Christian teachers, are we role models to our children if not spiritual guides?
To me, Education or rather knowledge without the fear (reverence) and wisdom of God, is always self destructive. As we see the world being destroyed with man's inventions and discoveries, when not used wisely or misused. With one press of a button, the whole race of mankind can be wiped out. Such is the height of man's knowledge, or should I say "foolishness". It is only the wisdom of God that can restrain us, save us and give us peace and security.
Unfortunately, violence is not only entering our homes through the electronic media but also through educational institution. Some schools tend to introduce Martial Arts to impart physical Education and discipline. Are there no sufficient games and sports to teach children sportsmanship and physical Education? Isn't it not contrary to the principles of Christ’s teaching or Non-Violence or for that matter the teachings of the majority of religions. Unfortunately, it is getting its way into the gospel Evangelism. There is no Gospel extortion, Gospel bribe, Gospel copying, Gospel Rock, Gospel violence or Gospel Martial Arts! Will our institutions also become a hot bed of violence, sex etc. instead of centres of learning knowledge and wis¬dom? It is a challenge not only for the teachers, but also every parent, who are the first teachers and the church elders who are the spiritual parents of the congregation.
Some years back, I came across a letter that really shook me. It was addressed to a teacher from a survival of the Nazi concentration camp. Though the authenticity is to be verified, it really questioned my priority as a teacher. It could also set your priorities right.
Dear Teacher,
I am a survivor of a Concentration camp.
My eyes saw what no man should witness. Gas Chambers built by learned engineers. Children poisoned by educated physicians, infants killed by trained nurses. Women and babies shot and burned by high school and college graduates.
So, lam suspicious of education. My request is: Help your students to become HUMANE.
Your effort must never produce learned monsters, skilled psychopath, educated eichmanns.
Reading, writing, arithmetics are important only if they serve to make our children more humane.
Your Love, A Survivor
As the great wise king Solomon concluded in the book of Ecclesiastes.
"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter; Fear God, and keep his commandments: For this is the whole duty of man . For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be eviI."(Eccl. 12: 13-14)
Teaching is not only a Profession but also a Mission with a Vision," "¬Wishing you a very Happy Teachers' Day.
Eisen Nungchim, Dimapur.
