“In poverty, there’s perseverance.” This was Teacher Zhang’s impression of Chen, a student whose dedication and excellent performance stood out despite his family’s financial struggles. Chen’s eagerness for knowledge inspired the teacher to promise herself never to let down any student. She devoted two and a half hours every school day evening to tutoring her students in their homework.
A teacher’s impact
At the beginning of the ninth grade, Chen was nowhere to be found among the students. Concerned, Teacher Zhang and a few students decided to visit Chen’s home one Sunday. The sight of the bare home brought tears to Teacher Zhang’s eyes; it was clear that financial difficulties had forced Chen to abandon his studies. The moment she saw Chen, she couldn’t hold back her tears and hugged him, whispering: “Knowledge can truly change one’s destiny.”
Teacher Zhang convinced Chen’s father to let him continue his education. Chen returned to his studies with even greater diligence, and Teacher Zhang paid extra attention tohis academic and personal well-being.
Adversity and perseverance
Chen’s dedication to his education paid off, as he excelled in his studies and earned a place in a prestigious high school. However, tragedy struck when his mother passed away, followed by his father during Chen’s first year of university. Despite these heartbreaking losses, Chen persevered, supported by the unwavering love and care of his teacher, Zhang, who became a maternal figure to him.
Chen’s journey through university was marked by financial hardship. With only a meager sum to his name, he refrained from seeking help, embodying the adage, “The child of a poor family must become independent early.” When Zhang learned that Chen lacked proper winter footwear, she sent him money from her own limited salary. Yet, in his steadfastness, Chen returned the money, unwilling to spend it on himself.
Upon graduating from university, Chen visited Teacher Zhang to share his experiences. After his parents’ passing and his siblings’ departure, Chen pursued further studies, eventually earning his PhD and starting work in 2003. He always made it a point to call Teacher Zhang upon visiting his hometown.
Gesture of gratitude
In 2007, on Teacher Zhang’s 60th birthday, Chen decided to express his profound gratitude. He surprised Zhang with a substantial sum of money to purchase a house, ensuring her comfort in her later years. This gesture was not just about providing material support; it was a testament to the life-changing impact Zhang had on Chen’s life.
Teacher Zhang and her husband were overjoyed to move from their simple dwelling to a spacious apartment. She fondly remembered how Chen used to help around her house during his school years and always brought gifts when he visited from university. Even after starting work, Chen never forgot about Teacher Zhang, regularly sending money and medicines to support her.
Touching more lives
Zhang’s influence extended beyond Chen. Another student credited her for changing his life’s trajectory by motivating him to retake the university entrance exams after an initial failure. Her belief in her students’ potential had the power to alter their destinies.
Even in retirement, Zhang’s care for her students never waned. She remained connected to them, offering support and receiving updates on their lives. When Chen learned of a fellow student from their hometown attending a university in Changchun, he arranged for them to deliver financial assistance to Zhang annually.
A lifelong bond
After Zhang’s spouse passed away, Chen offered her a place in his home, willing to care for her as she had once cared for him. This offer was more than a gesture; it was a promise of lifelong support and a reflection of their deep bond.
Teacher Zhang’s legacy is a testament to the power of dedicated educators and their indelible impact on their students’ lives, inspiring them to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential.
Translated article
