Yhem Speaks

Three weeks ago, I ran into one of my students at the train station. He looked surprised and happy to see me outside of school. Ever since then, he’s been asking, “When are you going there next?” He said he liked seeing me outside of school. I told him I wasn’t sure because this particular route isn’t part of my daily commute. It’s just once in a while.

Then, on Monday, by chance, I went that way again. And there he was, heading toward the station. We saw each other almost at the same time. The look on his face was pure elation. It was like he’d just spotted a genie granting wishes. I smiled and waved back. I realized that running into him didn’t feel weird at all, it was something to look forward to again.

It got me thinking afterwards that the influence we have on others is always there, even when it isn’t obvious. This student, once shy and hesitant in the classroom, has grown into someone who now participates, asks questions, and engages with genuine curiosity. Seeing him outside school with that genuine happiness on his face reminded me that small connections matter. Our presence matters. And sometimes, the ripples we create show up in the most unexpected, heartwarming ways.

And just today, another moment reminded me of the extraordinary ways kids touch our hearts. A different student handed me a small drawing. It was a bird soaring with hearts. “I drew this for you,” he said quietly.

I held it in my hands, studying the careful lines, the vibrant colors and the little 5 pieces of hearts drawn on the paper. It wasn’t just a drawing, it was a piece of his imagination, his thoughtfulness, his effort. And it warmed my heart in a way words rarely can.

Sometimes we underestimate how much our kindness or attention matters to children. And then, in a fleeting moment, a child hands you a little piece of their world, and it dawns on you that you are part of it.

These small moments, fleeting as they may be, are powerful. A wave at the train station. A thoughtful drawing. A simple “thank you” or smile. They all reminded me that life isn’t always about grand gestures or monumental achievements. It’s about noticing, showing up, and sometimes, simply being there. And it’s incredible how those small gestures return to you multiplied, in ways that leave you smiling long after the moment passes.

This particular week has been full of these tiny, extraordinary ripples. Seeing the shy student’s joy, holding the little bird drawing, watching these kids blossom this way is a reminder that what we do matters. More than we might ever know.

So yes, what a week!

A week of small moments, big smiles, and tiny gestures that leave a lasting mark. And it makes me look forward to all the unplanned encounters and little surprises waiting around the corner, ready to remind me just how remarkable the ordinary can be.

Finally, we all love Mario!❤️

With Stories Always,

Yhem