Today I was short of pencils, so I asked all my students to put theirs on the table.
One boy hesitated and asked if he could keep the pencils his mother had given him. I smiled and said, “Of course.” He paused for a moment, then added, “Well, I think I can give you some of them anyway, so my classmates can use them too.”
His generosity made me smile — but I had no idea what was coming next.
As I took his pencils to sharpen them, I noticed that something was written on each one. Small words, neatly penned along the side. I asked if he’d show me the rest, and when he did, my heart melted. His mother had written a message on every single pencil:
-You are so talented.
-It’s going to be a great year.
-You are creative.
-You are exceptional.
-Never give up.
-You can do it.
-You are aware.
-You’re a wizard at maths.
-You are intelligent.
-I am proud of you every day.
-I love you.
-You are a brilliant mind.
-You’re great.
-You’re a problem solver.
-Follow your dreams.
-You are perfect.
-You change the world.
-You are incomparable.
-You are the best.
-You matter.
It probably took her just a few minutes to write those words, but her kindness affected her son for the entire school day. The boy wasn’t embarrassed — he was proud. Each pencil carried love, belief, and encouragement.
Because of his mother’s small gesture, he reminded himself of his worth every time he picked up a pencil — and, even more beautifully, he wanted to share that feeling with his classmates.
That’s the power of small actions.
They ripple outwards.
They multiply.
They change hearts.
This simple act reminded me why I teach. Words of love and encouragement can transform a child’s day — sometimes even their life. When a child hears that they are talented, important, and loved, it plants a seed that will grow for years.
You may think it’s cheesy or unnecessary. You may feel too busy to say it. But remember — you might be the only person who ever tells that child how special they are.
A few kind words, written on a pencil, spoken in passing, or whispered before bedtime, can become a source of courage and confidence for life.
Small actions create big impact.
Never underestimate the power of love expressed in simple ways — it’s how we remind others, and ourselves, of our worth.
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