I remember when Mohammadali first arrived at King George in grade 8. He did not speak a lot of English but it was still easy to tell that he was a very polite and thoughtful student. I can't imagine how scary it is to start at a new school in a new country WITH A NEW LANGUAGE!! I know there are more than a few of you that have done it and I admire you all.
It has been great to see Mohammadali's English improve as it has obviously made things less stressful for him... and it has also given me the opportunity to know him better. Mohammadali is such a gentle soul. He is always very appreciative when I give him assistance. He is patient and honest and kind.
As you probably noticed (how could you not - it's HUGE!!) someone bought me an Iranian flag this year (thanks Armin!). When I put it up and showed it to some of my Persian students, they alerted me to the fact that it was the "old flag" from before the Revolution. "Is that okay?", I wondered. They all said the same thing: "I'm okay with it but Mohammadali might be offended". This was said to me by about 6 different students. I was getting nervous.
Finally, it was Mohammadali's class...
Me (nervously): Hey, Mohammadali. Look what is on the back wall.
Mohammadali: Oh, yes. It's nice.
Me: But is it offensive?
Mohammadali: I mean, SOME people may get upset by it... but I don't.
Phew!
Glad it was okay Mohammadali. I will think of you fondly when I look at it in the years ahead. Thanks so much for the meaningful gift that you gave me at the end of the year (and the educational / fascinating talk that went along with it). I admire you very much for your integrity and your discipline. I wish you nothing but the best in