Good Shepherd in Taiwan

Dear Teacher Hu,


Today is Chinese New Year's eve. You must be very busy of smiling and sharing stories with your family. This is time of togetherness. It's not too much different with me. I am now celebrating winter vacation in Hong Kong with my family. My family and I are so happy here.

This is the year of goat or sheep. I tend to mention it as the year of sheep because sheep is an unique animal. Sheep can be called as a fool animal. Sheep has thick hairs covered its body, but it must be cut time by time. Male sheep has horn, but it leads to sheep's own self. Female sheep has no horn. We may say that sheep has no weapon to protect its self. A flock of sheeps needs a shepherd to herd.

According to an old hymne, with a good shepherd, flocks will never want. A good shepherd makes flocks lie down in pastures green and leads to a quiet waters. He restores the flocks and walks within paths of righteousness. The flocks have no fear of walking in death's dark vale and of any ill because a good shepherd has rod and staff that always comforts them.

I know the concept of sheep and shepherd since I was kid. Until now, it never fails to attract me.

When imagining a good shepherd, I turn to you. Having you in Chinese language class is a grace for me. Your class is the safest place where I can fully speak English. As you know, my classes in my department are all taught in Chinese that sometimes it weakens my self. But, attending your class is so easy. It gives me joy and energy.

I understand not only about Chinese language, but also about life language :)

Warmth and integrity you bring means everything which then I realize that it is the foundation of good teaching. I was a teacher before coming to Taiwan, but I was not as good as you. You are the good example of both students and teachers. I believe that you inspire many people, especially your students.

So, on this special occasion, I want to thank you for all good memories. A thank you may not enough. Further, I cannot express it better than in prayers. But I hope you read my letter.

Happy Chinese New Year 2556. Gong xi ni ya. I wish you a fruitful year in everything you do. Be a good shepherd for your flocks. A good teacher for your students. A good educator for your learners.

I am looking forward to meet you soon :)


Best,
Yu Ming-xia