From Crayons to Wisdom: My Influential Teachers Outside Books

They say, “Life is the best teacher; it gives you the test first and the lesson later.” Indeed, every dawn brings a fresh lesson, whether through unexpected challenges or quiet realizations. But my classroom isn’t limited to life’s unpredictabilities—my children, with their boundless curiosity and tantrums, are profound educators too. Their innocent yet demanding ways often force me to confront my patience and rethink my perspectives. When my daughter boldly declares, “I know that!” it may trigger a sigh, but it also reminds me of the difference between confidence and overconfidence—a lesson for both of us.

Yet, if I must pinpoint a person who stands as my greatest teacher, it would be my maternal aunt. From childhood, she has been my guiding light, my “street light” in times of darkness. She taught me practical skills like managing a home, but beyond that, she shaped my confidence, independence, and strength. Her silent yet steady support molded my personality, making me believe that, “A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is in the journey where she will become strong.”

Her impact on me is a beautiful contradiction—a blend of discipline and love, strictness and tenderness. I owe her much of who I am today, from the smallest of habits to the grandest of dreams. When life feels like a chaotic kitchen with recipes gone wrong, her lessons remind me to add a pinch of patience and a spoonful of laughter.

Thought to ponder: “Isn’t it fascinating that sometimes the most influential teachers are the ones who don’t realize they’re teaching us at all?”