Yesterday was the day when we had to submit the absentee statement of the students. I was surprised to see so many of them come to my office with pleading looks in their eyes for a favour. I wondered why they had to bring themself to such a pathetic situation where they have to stand in front of someone seeking a favour which in the first place they never needed to? I had a strange feeling--repulsion for their erratic behaviour that has put me off so many times and a look of helplessness on thir face that spoke it all. Could I be like them? Then what would be the difference between innocence and experience? But were they really innocent or were the traunts bent upon spoiling the ambience of the class? On one hand my mind told me to act in a rational manner and submit the attendance record as it was and let them all face the music. At least it would serve as a precedent to the coming classes and set the things right. On the other hand there was my heart telling me not to harm the students in such a manner as what they needed at this stage was a reformative measure so that they understand to value some things in life. And finally it was my heart that won over my mind and I filled up in the form "no shortage" and submitted the report. A big burden was off my head but at the same time a doubt assailed me--would it not be termed as my weakness? I had serious reservations against some cases of indiscipline in the class and by letting them go scot free, was I not sending the message that they were free to behave the way they wanted, with no punishment? Though I forgive you but I won't ever forget it. And this is what would bring out the difference in our relationship.