Friday

So I have this Freshmen named Friday.

She's a bit odd. I haven't quite figured her out.

I took photos on the first day of class because it helps me learn students' names. The second week, I ask the students to glue their photo to an information card that they fill out (name, e-mail, hometown, cell number, etc.). When Friday turned in her card, there was no photo.

I asked her why.

No clear response.

I asked her where the photo was, and then she threw a tantrum like a small child.

Everyone was looking. I told her to come talk to me after class.

After class, she explained that she hated the picture, so she ripped it up. I patiently explained that the photo is only for me to learn names. No one else sees it.

Fact was, it didn't matter at that point, so I let it go and she left.

I take lots of photos when students come over so that I can share the photos with them later. One day during the break of class, I showed some photos from a Free Talk. Friday was coming to a Free Talk the next day. She asked me after class if she would be required to be in photos when she came to my house to make cookies. I smiled and said, "at least one." She obstinately told me she would refuse to be in any pictures.

I told her that I take pictures so I can remember all of my students.

And I will never forget how she responded. She looked me right in the eyes and demanded, "You can remember everyone else, but don't remember me."

I acquiesced and never took her photo all night, but every time I grabbed my camera she would run behind me so as to dodge the photo.

Based on the facts above, I thought Friday hated me.

This week Friday found out Chip and I will be leaving Qufu at the end of the year. I told students months ago, but somehow it hadn't sunk in.

Tonight she showed up at my door. I was really surprised. She was holding a bucket of Snickers (not cheap here in Qufu). I asked what they were for and like it was obvious she said, "because you are leaving."

She told me to put them in the fridge because it is so hot. I gave her a hug. She stood awkwardly. She didn't say much. I was honestly blindsided.

Later I got this text: Chocolate fears hot weather. I was too nervous to speak just now. YOU are the sweetest teacher I have ever seen. I regret to see that you will leave the college. Anyway, best wishes for you and Chip.

I hope I always remember Friday.