Despite what I have said about creativity, which does indeed apply, sadly, there are still some among my students who possess courage and individuality that really does deserve kudos. First among them is one of my older students, whom we will call "Toto." And, yes, that is her school name. Toto's parents thought for a long time it was more important for her to learn Chinese, as I understand, and she had, for quite some time. She has only recently begun to learn English, and when she first joined my class, I struggled so much to understand what her English name was, she finally had to write it down herself. I called on her, praised her, and otherwise made her work and made her feel good as much as I could. Well, in the last month or so, Toto has come blasting on the scene like a Cobra in high gear. I know that took some work, and some courage for her, and I sincerely hope she keeps it up. Grace is another one of my students who has really come on recently in the personality department, but insists on trying to speak to me in Korean, which I don't quite know how to address. Many of my other students, both boys and girls, have made improvements, and would make more if they'd simply shut up and focus on me. But for the most part they're younger, and just being kids, which I understand. The ones who are going to come around eventually I pretty much know will, because they're good now, if a bit antsy. And I can tell the classes of mine that are really having a good time learning, because I ask them for responses, and even if they *do* get them straight out of the book, which, for the most part they do, although some of these kids actually DO come up with responses extempore, I praise them, too. These kids like to be involved in learning, and like to contribute to it. Maybe there is hope for the future after all. And I'll be thrilled if I just know I did my bit, which I do. But of course, like any good parent, mentor, teacher, or whatever, from that point, you just stand back and pray. Our Father, who art in Heaven........