✒️: Seerat Rafiq

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Class 12th, Govt. Higher Secondary School, Delina Baramulla

I am delighted to share my heartfelt gratitude towards the wonderful teachers who have shaped my life and guided me at every step.

When I attended my first class of the Humanities stream, I was completely unaware of the subject itself. My dream had always been to pursue the medical field, and I couldn’t imagine myself in anything else. But life had other plans, and Allah sent me a true mentor — Qazi Syed Sajjad Sir, our esteemed Political Science lecturer. Sir noticed my uneasiness and encouraged me. Even when I couldn’t concentrate in class or failed to understand, he would gently ask, “Hafiza ji, aapko samajh aa raha hai? Kya phir samjhavun?” These words gave me confidence and enthusiasm to learn new things.

What makes Sajjad Sir unique is his democratic style of teaching. He gave us freedom to learn openly and created a conducive atmosphere for discussion. Because of his constant support, I improved from scoring only 4 marks to topping my class and even winning a district-level speech competition. For me, Sajjad Sir is not just a teacher — he is the guiding light of my entire educational journey.

Next, I want to talk about Tabassum Ma’am. Her very name brings positivity and a smile. She has always reminded us that life is not a bed of roses, but with hard work and faith, we can overcome any challenge. She makes English so interesting. In grammar, she makes complex concepts easy. She would always give us a “word of the day” at the end of her lecture. But what truly sets her apart is the way she draws moral lessons from every chapter. Tabassum Ma’am is bold, smart, and courageous — strict for a moment, but always kind the next.

Then comes Haris Sir, who left a deep impact on me. Outside the classroom, he is always smiling, kind, and approachable. Inside, he is disciplined and expects the best from us. He often says, “Beauty can only gain attraction, but real character wins the heart.” These words will stay with me forever. Thanks to his guidance, I was able to score 98 out of 100 in Urdu in my Class 11th examination. Truly, he is a mentor who not only sharpens our academics but also builds our character.

I also remember Shaukat Sir, who once stepped in as our English teacher when our regular teacher was on leave. His teaching style made grammar and syllables easy and fun. But what touched me most was not just his knowledge, but his haya — his deep modesty. Whenever I greeted him, he would lower his gaze with utmost respect. I truly feel that he is a living example of what the Qur’an and Hadith describe a man should be. His honesty, humility, and modesty made him unforgettable for me.

When I rejoined this school after a long break, I was nervous and even cried on the first day. But Bilal Sir welcomed me with a smile and said, “This school is your second home.” His kindness gave me courage. Along with him, Gurmeet Ma’am has always been the foundation of our school. She teaches us discipline, respect, and responsibility. Strict at times, but always with love and guidance.

Our librarians, Samir Sir and Shaukat Sir, also hold a special place in my heart. Though strict, Samir Sir encouraged me to borrow books and explore knowledge freely, without fear. His trust in me made me more responsible. And Shaukat Sir motivated me with kind words, reminding me to aim high and never give up.

Sumaiya Ma’am, another family member of HSS Delina, welcomed me warmly and constantly reminded me that I was on the right path. She cleared every doubt with patience and shared stories to inspire us. Her absence is felt deeply, but her lessons live on in my heart.

I also want to appreciate Safura Ma’am and Samina Ma’am. Safura Ma’am always takes time to ask about our families and treats us with motherly kindness. Even though IT is not my subject, she would invite me to attend her classes and keep inspiring me. Samina Ma’am, who teaches Tourism, inspired me with her caring nature and constant encouragement.

Then there are Shahina Ma’am and Fozia Ma’am. Shahina Ma’am guided us when our English teacher was absent, and her punctuality and kindness left a strong impression on me. Fozia Ma’am, on the other hand, is like a second mother to us — graceful, kind, and nurturing, teaching us lessons beyond the classroom.

I cannot forget Firdous Sir, our Physical Education lecturer, who teaches us about fitness, discipline, and development. And also Firdous Sir, our Senior Assistant, who is a source of inspiration. His helpful nature and constant support make our academic journey smooth.

Then comes our new Education lecturer, Asma Amin Ma’am. She is so loving and caring. She makes her class lively and explains concepts so clearly.

Lastly, I want to say something from my heart to Hilal Sir, Hanan Sir, Sadaf Gazala Ma’am, Bashir Sir, Reeta Ma’am, Syed Bashir Sir, Khursheeda Ma’am, Sunita Ma’am, Rubinder Ma’am, Jatinder Ma’am, Rajni Ma’am, Harmeet Ma’am, Shashi Ma’am, Subaya Ma’am, Sheikh Sajad Sir, Majid Sir, Farooq Sir, Ishfaq Sir, Baseerat Ma’am, Rafiq Sir, Ab. Rashid Sir, Majeed Sir, Zahida Ma’am, and Shakir Sir. Although they do not teach us directly, each of them has inspired me in one way or the other. By simply observing them, I learned the value of dedication, kindness, and the true meaning of “Work is worship.”

Last but not least, I would like to express my love and regards for Misra Aunty, Sakeena Aunty, and Saleema Aunty. They are also important pillars of our school.

In conclusion, I want to say: teachers are not just educators, they are nation-builders. They shape us into who we are meant to be. To all my teachers — thank you for believing in me, correcting me, guiding me, and most importantly, inspiring me.

Thank you.

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