There’s an old saying that goes, a manager tells people what to do and a leader shows them what to do. Break down the word “leader” and you get the word lead. Break it down further and for every leader you have followers. What does it mean to follow? It means to do the same thing someone else has already done. That someone being the leader, Another old saying, “I believe half of what I see and none of what I hear.” The logic behind it is that just saying something, whether it be “I’ll work hard” or “I love you” is easy. I could say it 100 times right now no problem. Showing it though, is difficult. It actually requires you to work.

In my own case, I’ve implemented what I’ve just talked about in my own life. When I told my students I’ll see them in November, I did. When I told my students I’d bring them something for their bruised arm, I did. And when I told them I’d teach them for the entire school year, I did. Even when I no longer wanted to stay here. A part of me wanted to show them the importance of honoring commitments and keeping your word. With kids and youths especially if they see you saying one thing but acting in another. Eventually they catch on. I worked hard to try and help my students be better. Eventually some of the older ones began to reciprocate.

So here I am, kept my promise to these kids. They’ve all left. I was here before they arrived and I only leave once they have left. “Showing” rather then “telling” is a lesson I’ll take away, perhaps you will too.

Kingston S. Lim

Bangkok, Thailand

February 24, 2020