Dear band,

It has been 1 week after SYF. How have you been? It's nice to see some of you around, greeting me politely when you walk past me. It was brought to my attention by a few subject teachers this week that some of you are

1) Still upset (as of Mon)about SYF
2) Telling parents that you stay out late this week due to band (Lie?)
3) Not putting in your best attitude or behaviour during subject lessons

With regards to this, 1 band colleague can't help but asked me on Fri "Ms Neo, why can you stay so calm after SYF results that day? I actually cried too. I feel upset for the band. Don't you feel anything?"

Well, I cried before too when I went for my own SYF. I cried too when I accompanied SPF band in 2007 Indoor (tears really dropped) and 2008 Outdoor SYF (I held back my tears). This year, I didn't. Not because I don't feel anything, but because I already understood what are the 'greater' things that you can take away other than outcome. Outcome is a bonus only.

Just ask yourself 'Have you tried your best?' If the answer is YES, you had done your part. The outcome is not something that is only determined by you - something that you should understand. It is determined by everyone else, your competitors, school support, etc.

Look forward - God gives us eyes that are positioned as such for us to LOOK FORWARD.

I got a table calendar. On April 10th, it states

"The only difference between 'happiness is nowhere' and 'happiness is now here' is not the event, but how you see the event. Perception is the key.

I know I can never make you see things the same way I see it. But if you try, you may see the things I perceive. Who knows?

Today, April 17th, it states

"A lot of happiness is overlooked because it doesnt cost anything."

So, move on. Stop giving yourself excuses for not putting in your very best in other important things such as STUDIES. I spoke to some of you, especially my sec 1s. Be consistent and never create any more troubles or excuses for you can be suspended. You know who you are. I believe in you, but you got to prove yourself worthy of praises.

Only when you know what you take away, can this learning journey be complete. No point missing band practices now as you SHOULD concentrate on studies. EXCEL in studies. Then, you can be back without parent's objection. Too many parents objected and hoped you can quit. You may not know. But a lot of your parents are my 'friends' now. Only when you can assure them that you can cope well, will they feel less worried.

Well, Mrs Tang suggested this year's ORD and SYF thanksgiving ceremony to be held in May after exam. This can be something that we look forward to. Subjected to further planning and confirmation.

For me, after SYF, I resumed focus on things that I had neglected. I took away (10) if you remember. I thank all who allowed me to be stronger, not fearful about abrupt situations or doctor's words. I started my phase 1 of heart treatment. Literally. I always see it coming. Just like how I know my band will move on for sure too after 10th April. I have not given up in everything despite there are times I wish I can. Have you? Is life just about SYF? =)

Your next focus - STUDIES - Determine the outcome by working on it. Believe strongly, with concrete actions. It works, only if you FOCUS and put in your very best with no other excuses or distraction.

FOCUS ON STUDIES!

Ms Neo HJ
Band Teacher IC