Vindicated

When I opened the mailbox last night, there was a letter addressed to SK. At his age, SK doesn't receive that many letters and this rather official-looking one from his secondary school made me nervous.

I opened it warily and almost jumped with joy. It turned out to be an invitation to the Speech and Awards Ceremony because he topped the school in Art for GCE 'O' Levels. Since he was barely two, he could draw his favourite fishes without any difficulty. I've always believed in him though he has never acknowledged his talent. I think he sets very high standards for himself.

Both my sons are very artistic but only SK has chosen to pursue his studies in Art while YK is more interested in Science.

To me, this award is important in many ways. SK is about to start a diploma course in Environment Design but is suddenly having doubts. He wonders if he had made the right choice as he ponders about his future. I said it doesn't matter as long as it's something he enjoys. I hope winning this award will boost his self-confidence.

Today my colleague reminded me of an incident that I had almost forgotten. In 2008, SK submitted a brilliant piece of artwork for his final year exams but the teacher wrongly accused him of getting help at home. I was so upset because she gave him a poor score (40/100) and he was subsequently punished. You can read the story here and here.

If the teacher is going to be at the ceremony, I hope she will realise that she had made a mistake. I am happy that this award has vindicated SK from her accusations.