I remember when I first met Sebastian in grade 11. Ms Sidhu had told me "I think you will like this guy" so I was eager to get to know him. But I was taken aback in one of our first interactions. I can't remember exactly how it went but it was something like this:
Me: Hey, Sebastian. Can you please make sure you are on time next day?
Sebastian (smiling widely): Yes, Sir.
Me: Pardon me?
Sebastian: Yes, Sir. No problem, Sir.
My first thought was: "is this guy being a smart-aleck?". I mean, who calls their teacher "Sir" in this millennium?
Well, it turns out that Sebastian is that guy. He uses "Sir" all the time. He thanks me warmly for any advice (or even criticism!) I give him. He takes everything at face-value. I'm not saying he is gullible but Sebastian is so trusting, so interested, so enthusiastic, so eager... it's pretty easy to lead him astray from time to time.
But it's also super sweet. I'm not sure what the opposite of "cynical" is (hopeful? optimistic? undoubting?) but it would certainly describe Sebastian. And what a great trait to have! May you never lose that, Sebastian. Here's hoping you are still smiling widely, laughing, and bringing cheer to those around you for years and years in the future.
Thanks for your kindness and your friendly nature, Sebastian. I have enjoyed teaching you the past two years and I wish you the best of luck in the future. I believe in you, Sir!!