classroom notes #5: little moments

I’m backstage frantically giving last minute reminders before the kids go onstage for the Speech Festival competition. I make my way down the line adjusting hair ribbons, straightening shirts and cardigans and then I reach Holvin, a precocious Grade 1 little boy who’s so cute he breaks your heart and who will probably be breaking young girls’ hearts in another 10 years or so. He has a low raspy voice that's more befitting of a big burly man rather than this smidgen of a boy barely 3’ tall.

“Holvin, remember to speak loudly but don’t shout.” I adjust the cardigan that’s three sizes too large for him, my fingers trembling with anxiety at how they’ll perform and realizing everything is out of my hands now.

“Okay.” In a stage whisper that booms across the hall.

“Loud, but not too loud.” On my knees looking into his eyes.

“Miss Hester, you already say many times.” He looks back at me, eyes so serious.

“I know. Miss Hester is just nervous.” I give his nose a little rub with my fingertip.

He brings his cheek to my cheek, reaches up to pat my other cheek and then whispers into my ear.

“I know.” He gives my nose a little rub with his fingertip and then off he goes with the rest of the kids onto the stage and into the bright lights.


... And they were marvellous.