Hello, my dears. I’m Wang Xiulan, a teacher who recently stepped down from the podium after decades in the classroom. I had imagined my retirement would be tranquil, but life soon presented me with unexpected challenges. Not long after my daughter settled abroad, the house grew quiet—too quiet—and I found myself grappling with both empty nest feelings and the physical and emotional waves of menopause. Sleepless nights, sudden sweats, mood swings—it felt as though I had lost my footing.

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Thankfully, a caring neighbor noticed and gently guided me toward a women’s support group. There, I met others walking similar paths. We shared stories, offered comfort, and learned ways to soothe both body and mind. Slowly, with their encouragement, I began to regain my balance.

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Once I felt steadier, I knew I wanted to give back—to reignite purpose in my own life while helping others. Teaching has always been my calling, so I joined a volunteer program and now spend each week in a village school, teaching language to bright-eyed children. Their eager voices and earnest curiosity remind me of why I fell in love with teaching so long ago. In guiding them, I too feel guided—filled with a warmth that has dissolved much of the loneliness I once felt.

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This journey has reaffirmed something important: teaching isn’t confined to age or a classroom. It is the gentle passing of light from one life to another. Our struggles, once endured, can become a well of empathy. Our experiences, however seasoned, can still nurture new growth. May we all move forward with grace, using the wisdom we’ve gathered not only to brighten our own later years but also to light the way for others.