A Series of Rebirths

Sequoia Teacher Mabel Sajonas shares what it is like to make the leap to a new country and new school after 30 years of teaching in the Philippines.

Leaving my beloved workplace in the Philippines–where I grew into the Montessori mom and teacher that I am now–was a tough call. What made it even tougher was being away for the first time from my daughters, my dog, my home. But I knew I had to make this big leap to push myself further.

Becoming an Adventurer

Mabel and fellow teachers at the Maria Montessori Foundation, her school of 30 years.

Prior to my move to Japan, I considered myself risk-averse, content with all that was happening in my life. I was also satisfied with my 30-year career in the same Montessori environment where I have built lasting relationships with my colleagues, touched the lives of children in my class, and earned the trust of the school community. However, I began to wonder if I could find greater fulfillment and purpose in a different, yet similarly fulfilling, workplace. 

Mabel with her students in her former classroom.

Could I find more meaning somewhere else, still doing what I’m passionate about? Could I muster the courage to challenge myself and embrace change? But would I also ever look back later and wish I hadn't? One thing was certain though–I would definitely forever regret not giving myself this chance to try something new.

I had two considerations before deciding on a new workplace. First, proximity to home, and second, a school that adheres to the Montessori philosophy and practice. I was certain MST fulfilled these two, thus my journey with MST commenced. 

Being at Home

I am deeply grateful to be part of the MST community. Nine months in, and I already feel that same sense of belonging I had back home. Building new friendships and connections came naturally. Sure, there were adjustments, challenges, and a few bumps , but none that I could not handle. At MST, I continue to experience Montessori in action each day with the children.

Similar to a child undergoing significant transitions in Maria Montessori’s theory on the Planes of Development where she described human development as a series of rebirths, I view this change in my life as a new beginning, much like a rebirth, as I continue to learn, improve myself, and acquire new perspectives.

Being at MST and moving to Japan with my husband was the change I hadn’t realized I needed until now. I still remember this life quote on the 3 C’s of life (Choices, Chances, Changes): You must make a choice to take a chance or your life will never change. I still do miss home a lot, but with my newfound sense of courage,  wonder, and motivation,  I have embraced my life-changing choice.

Mabel Sajonas

Sequoia Teacher