One of the most memorable birthdays I have ever had was eleven (11) years ago. At that time, I was undergoing my leadership journey as the Head Choreographer and leader of the Adult Dancers. That season of training was one of the most heartbreaking yet rewarding moments of my life.
On
my 32nd birthday, my trainees and juniors surprised me with a simple but
touching gift. I never expected their
gift. One by one, they placed a sash on
me, making me feel like a self-proclaimed "queen." It may have seemed
like a funny or wacky award, but to them, each sash represented how they saw me
— as their leader, mentor, and colleague.
They could be naughty and playful at times, but by God's grace, they grew into responsible individuals. Looking back now, I am not afraid to let them spread their wings because I know they are ready.
The Countdown Queen Award
Seven. Seven. Seven.
That was my signature code whenever I needed everyone to gather before practice. The code originally belonged to my dance partner, Shan, but when he left the town to continue his studies in the city, I adopted it, and eventually it became my own trademark. Whenever I called out, "Seven!" everyone immediately knew it was time to assemble.
Best Announcer Award
I
became the group's human clock, production announcer, and unofficial roll
caller. Because I naturally have a
high-pitched voice, I rarely needed to shout — my normal speaking voice was
already loud enough for everyone to hear.
People who were unfamiliar with me often assumed I was angry or constantly shouting, when in reality, that was simply how I spoke. I was frequently misunderstood because of it.
Miss Guidance Counselor
Being a leader is not just about authority. It also means caring for the people entrusted to you — not only in ministry matters but also in their personal lives. When they were emotionally unstable, the ministry was affected as well.
There were times when I intentionally spent time with them one by one just to know them better. Whenever there was extra provision, I treated them to meals or rewarded them as a group before or after an event. More than being their leader, I wanted to be their big sister.
The Choreographer Master Award
Since they were under my care, I taught them everything I knew about choreography, so this award was quite fitting.
To be honest, I never considered myself a master choreographer. I simply had the passion to teach and help them become excellent choreographers themselves.
Today, when I see their work, I am amazed. Their choreography has become even better than mine, and I couldn't be prouder. Seeing them surpass me is proof that they learned well.
Looking
back, I can truly say that all the hard work was worth it. It took about a year and a half for the first
batch of choreographers to fully understand and apply what I taught them. There
were tears in prayer, heart-to-heart conversations, misunderstandings,
corrections, and even criticism. Yet every challenge became part of the process
that shaped us all.
Last year, one of my friends told me that my juniors still spoke of me with great respect. When I asked what they had said, she didn't give me the details. Still, hearing those words warmed my heart.
Earning someone's respect is never easy, especially when you are known for being strict. Respect is not demanded — it is earned over time through consistency, love, and genuine care.
Looking back after all these years, those playful awards were more than just birthday gifts. They were reminders that the countless hours of training, mentoring, correcting, encouraging, and praying for my juniors were never in vain.
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