Winning Hearts

Mini had shifted to Bangalore two months ago. She was fortunate to have got a teaching job, and today, was her first day at school.

The principal introduced her to the other teachers.

" Meet Mini, the new high school English teacher. She will also be the class teacher of X 'A'

All the best, be careful of that boy Akshay in X 'A'. He spells trouble " said Latha the science teacher.

Meera, the history teacher, and Jacob the maths sir too added "He is the trouble maker in the class".

"Gets into fights with everyone, bullies other".

"Tired of getting complaints against him all the time".

Mini was apprehensive but with a smile entered the class of X 'A'. She introduced herself and asked the students to introduce themselves one by one. Akshay was a tall, lanky guy with an unruly look.

Just as she turned to write on the board, a paper rocket hit her on the back.

"Mam, it was Akshay" told one of the boys.

" Akshay, next time you want to talk to me, or want my attention, just call me. Please don't waste paper." Mini said smiling sweetly.

The next few days, Akshay did all sorts of pranks like spilling ink on her chair, hiding the duster, creating a commotion in the class etc.,

Mini never lost her cool and handled it gracefully.

Mini got to know from one of the students that Akshay was raised by a single mother. His father had abandoned them when he was five. Burdened with the huge responsibility of being a single parent, his mother hardly found time for him after a long day at work and household chores. His only companion was the TV. He craved love and attention.

Mini appointed Akshay as the class monitor. He was responsible for the class being clean, collecting assignments from students, and managing the class in her absence.

This brought about a great change in him. He was no longer the bully but an efficient leader. He made sure the class was clean before she entered. He worked hard at his studies too. His grades improved and the other students made him a part of their group. He aced at basketball with passion and soon made the captain of the school team.

The transformation of Akshay surprised the other teachers.

While they constantly punished and criticized Akshay, Mini with her kindness had killed the troublemaker, the bully, Akshay.

Her kindness made him into a responsible, well-mannered boy.

All it takes is a little kindness to win someone's heart.