It was a morning assembly time for students.
The teacher’s class were assembled in one straight line.
It is normal practice for teachers to greet students and vice-versa.
Teacher: “Good morning!”
Student: “Good morning sir!”
It was cold that morning with outbreaks of drizzle.
The student right in front decided to rearrange their three layers of garments.
Teacher: “Can I help you, hold the coat for you?”
Student: “No, I am an independent woman!”
Teacher: “You are only thirteen and surely, you dependent on your parents!”
Student: “Only on my mother at home!”
Teacher: “I am fully dependent!”
Student: “Well, that’s worrying!”
For a moment, the teacher was fully absorbed by a thought:

“Handouts are only for the poor and the needy …” Quran 9:60

Soon afterwards, and unexpectedly the teacher was instructed to escort the students, whose names appeared on a list, to the assembly room. They were to be rewarded for their efforts during the first school term, but she was not one of them.