Sulekha's teacher proved to be a true guiding light in her otherwise dark and neglected life. From the very first day, when Bholi sat sobbing in a corner, humiliated by her stammer, the teacher approached her with a soft, soothing voice and genuine warmth — something Bholi had never experienced at home.
The teacher did not mock her stammer; instead, she patiently encouraged her, saying "Well done" for every small effort and affectionately patted her. She instilled confidence by promising, "Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else."
She gave Bholi a colourful book and the vision of a learned future, assuring her that people would one day listen to her with respect. This promise filled Bholi's heart with new hope and a new life.
By recognising Bholi's hidden potential and nurturing it with kindness, the teacher transformed a neglected, fearful child into the confident Sulekha who eventually stood up against an unjust marriage — epitomising a true teacher's transformative power.
Source: Bholi, Chapter 8, First Flight (Supplementary Reader — Footprints Without Feet)
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