Growing up, I was an awkward kid.

I sang Justin Bieber in inappropriate situations.
I cracked jokes that were offensive or didn’t make sense.
I struggled to make eye contact.
I fidgeted with my hands constantly.
I neglected cultural norms, to the annoyance of my Chinese parents.
I stammered a lot, especially towards elders.

A sad but true story: In high school, I was too scared to talk to my crush in person so I emailed her instead. Luckily, she replied. I found out a few years later that she thought the person she was emailing was another Asian guy.

And whenever I felt uncomfortable of my awkwardness, I resorted to video games and books instead of addressing the issue head on. I thought I would be awkward forever.

But yesterday, after making small talk with a stranger in the lift and reflecting on the day in the hospital, I think that is no longer true. It feels ridiculous to write, but I don’t think I am awkward any longer. I am a functional human being.

One of the most underrated forces in the world is change. Isn’t it amazing how neglected children like Simone Biles can become Olympic medallists, how failing students can become high achievers, how an awkward child can transform?

The main reason I tutor is to be a part of exactly this. When I see someone make steps towards their goals, there is a joy and excitement within me that bursts open like a well. It is a beautiful force to be reckoned with.