Test for a Teacher

Once there was a young man who aspired to be a teacher. He learned that the headmaster of a nearby school was looking for an assistant teacher, so he approached the old man and presented his certificates.

“Sir, I want to become a dedicated teacher,” said the young man. The headmaster peered at him through his heavy glasses and replied, “I’m glad to know that you want to be a teacher, but first, you must cultivate the virtue of patience.”

The Importance of Patience

The young man nodded gravely in acknowledgment. “Come, I’ll show you around the school,” said the headmaster. They had just walked a few yards when the headmaster remarked, “If you are patient, you will make great progress with your pupils.”

After a few minutes, the headmaster turned to the young man once again and said, “Nothing can be taught without patience.” At the end of their tour of the school, the headmaster accompanied the young man to the gate.

A Lesson in Control

“Remember, son, patience is everything. Be patient with your pupils every minute of the day.”

“Sir, do you take me for a fool? This is the fourth time you’ve told me the same thing!” the young man exclaimed in frustration.

“Exactly, my son. I’ve repeated it only four times, and you have already lost your patience. If you lose control so quickly, how will you teach the children?” asked the headmaster.

A Commitment to Growth

The young man stopped. He then touched the elder’s feet and said, “You’re right, Sir. I will return only when I am confident that I’ve mastered the virtue of patience.”