Day 35 Second chance

 He doesnt know it but one of my past matrics sent me a message completely out of the blue yesterday on a very auspicious date. Two years ago today, when he was in matric, this boy made some very bad choices. Choices that got him expelled. It was a deeply traumatic time for all involved. 

He left in a dark cloud and I was very worried that that cloud would stay on him, infiltrate him and become him. 

But a few of us never gave up on him. And I walked his final exam journey alongside him, if remotely. He went on to get an A for Drama and is now studying at one of the top theatre schools in the country. 

Yesterday he sent me poster for the two productions he is currently rehearsing for under the direction of undoubtedly two of South Africa's most talented and renowned directors. 

My boy even snuck me a little glimpse of a rehearsal. And he is doing magnificently. 

And he doesnt know that yesterday, two years ago, his world looked very very different. 

The only justice that will ever work is regenerative justice. Justice that seeks to restore a lost teen before what he does becomes who he is. I couldn't believe the full circle moment yesterday and the perfection of its timing. 

As teachers we have to be the most forgiving of people. We have to see the child, and not their behaviour. We have to show grace when every other back has turned against them. Because thats what Jesus would do. 

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