The school just had a farewell for our founding principal. It was a rather emotional one, as expected. Anything lesser will be disrespect to the man who put in much effort for the school. From raising funds to arm-twisting the contractor, he done his best for the best deal for the school. His best, I mean, to his knowledge of what is best.

Working with someone for five years and now it is time for a change. It is not going to be easy. I am going to miss his style of leadership. He has his flaws, but overall, he has a good heart, and a big heart. Afterall, he gave me the chance to try out as HOD and overlooked my flaws and mistake. I mustn't forget his graciousness and generosity. No one is perfect. And at this point, the most respectful thing to do is to look at his contribution and be appreciative of it.

It is funny how so many people changed their attitudes and opinion when they know someone is leaving or have left. They tend to be more positive. Experience tells me that students always, almost always, praise the teacher who just left them and resist the new one. They forgot their complains etc. And I think it is a good thing, to appreciate people good points and to be more forgiving. Afterall, God is like that to us. Otherwise, none of us would survive His wrath. The Bible says He is quick to forgive and slow to angry (Psalm 86:5). We, being made in His image, naturally are able to forgive, especially those who are leaving.

Perhaps, the challenge is not forgiving those who are leaving, but those who are with us too. I suspect it is easier to forgive those who are leaving or have left as their problems or habits will not come back to irritate us. But those who are with us, their habits will constantly bug us. Don't have to look far, it could well be your siblings who share your bathroom.

For me, I struggled to forgive someone who sort of played me out. Thank God, the struggle wasn't too long and too tough. It was His grace. How about you?

Dear Lord, pls help me to always ready to forgive. Amen