Reflection over the past 134 Days

Joshua 1-3: I will give you every place where you set our foot, as I promised Moses. 5: No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life.  As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 9: Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go (NIV). 

134 days! Who would have thought! 

Before coming to Korea I had not the slightest idea of what to expect.  All I knew was that I was ecstatic to be able to go to a foreign place to share my gift of teaching with others.  

Arriving however, produced the biggest shock of my life.  Culture shock is REAL!  During orientation I felt invencible and thought I wouldn't be affected by it.  

Orientation was in Seoul....

I live in Hongcheon and teach in the rural countryside.....

I will admit in the beginning I had a negative attitude and was ready to pack my bags and return to what I "knew" in the United States.  While I had this thought, I also thought about how hard I had prayed for this opportunity.  I thought about all of the work I had put in gathering important documents.  I thought about the many times I second guessed myself and thought maybe, just maybe that this wasn't for me after all.  I thought about all of the times I cried to close friends about how things were "panning" out and how I was worrying about things that God already had (long) under control. 

My conclusion was that I couldn't leave, not when God answered every prayer that I had prayed months before I was scheduled to arrive; from my living conditions (of which are very suitable for lil ole me), to the students that I work with, and the people whom have been put into my life here--YES! right now I am where I am supposed to be! Words will never be able to express the amount of gratitude that I wake up with everyday. 

Having been here for 134 days now, I have learned so much.  I have learned about a different group of people, how they live and their culture.  I have learned how to treat others better, and most importantly, I am learning more and more about myself AND how to truly lean, depend, and trust God in and with everything that I have. 

I am thankful that my being here has brought me that much closer to my Father.  I am thankful for the "newness" that I feel; new attitude, positive attitude, even when things aren't looking so hot, a more keen appreciation for life in general.  I'm thankful for patience, adaptability, and flexibility.  

With three weeks off, instead of visiting other foreign places, I have chosen to go home, to America, to visit my own family.  I miss them more than I ever thought I would, especially being able to call and talk to my sister at the drop of a hat about whatever "random" things have happened to one of us throughout the day.  I miss being able to call, text, and talk to friends, or swap "one more of life's events" with my girl Ang.  

Thank you Korea for helping me to continuously become a better person, for allowing me to share my gift with students most teachers would love to fill their classrooms with, for the people who have been put into my life here, new friendships, and most of all for the relationship that has been enhanced and further developed with my Heavenly Father.  

Until 2011....Anyong-hi kyeseyo (Goodbye, stay in peace) 

*** I won't be blogging while I am away; however, upon my return I will pick up where I left off! Thank you for keeping up with me thus far along my adventure and I hope to catch you during the second "leg"! Stay tunned.  

Seoseok, Korea

Photos.....

I had a Christmas decorating contest with my students.......they are very creative......

Christmas Decorations Class 2-2

Class 1-1....

Class 1-2....

English speaking contest....this kid is a character!  

My favorite girls! 

Christmas party at the elementary school...3rd graders....

Winding Down....

The school year is slowly coming to a close.  Students have finished their exams, today is the last day of their English Winter Camp, and they are trying their best to contain their excitement of not having to come to school.  I don't blame them.  These students study as hard as a kid in college; long, long hours.  I discovered yesterday that they will get a "winter break" beginning on Friday, Christmas Eve (yes they still have school this day).  They will come back in February, have their "graduation", and then go on "spring break" for two weeks.  With a puzzled look on my face, I had to ask, "Didn't they just get off of vacation?  And they get another?"  The response I received, "Students study very hard here.  They deserve it."  All I could to was agree, because it is so true. 

My co-teacher stopped me today after observing that I looked "gloomy".  I just kind of smiled and said no, I just have a lot to do and a little time to do it.  She asked me what I was working on and I shared with her that I was applying for a job upon my return to the states, still in education of course.  Then she began to explain how our teaching styles are different.  She told me that she noticed that I stimulate students more and that she has been impacted by the activities that I provide for them.  I thanked her for her kind words.  The last thing that she asked me was if I could look up books for how I teach.  I explained to her that many of the things I use don't come from a book, for me it comes from what I have learned, the little bit of experience that I do have, and a lot of creativity.  She said that she is always so focused on scores and students scoring high on exams and usually nothing else.  My response to her was while we want students to do well and score high, if they are not stimulated by the material it will be difficult to keep and hold their attention.  The things that they learn should have some kind of meaning to and for them.  I told her that when she has time we could sit and discuss whatever she wanted to and that I would be more than willing to help her come up with ideas for her students.

During one of my classes yesterday I witness two boys being punished for not working and playing around.  No, it was not I who issued the punishment!  My co-teacher made the two boys stand with their hands behind their backs, and put a pencil in their mouth.  I think they were standing for a good 30 minutes if not longer.  When they still proceeded to act up, she grabbed them by their hair and thumped their foreheads.  Anything goes here!

With Christmas days away, I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas, being mindful that it doesn't matter if you don't get a gift from a loved one because we have all been given the most precious gifts of all, and that is what matters most. 

T - 13.....and Counting....and other Randoms of Today

Slowly, but surely I am getting closer to my much needed vacation.  Thankfully, I will have the chance to see and spend time with my family, eat  food that I know and recognize (I have tried to eat Korean food.....just can't do it....), and get in some really good workouts!!!  I still have to work on Christmas Eve, which is the last day for students, so I will miss another major holiday with my family :(. Though I miss them dearly, I know that I will be okay....T minus 13...and counting.......

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It's snowing here today and has been going since I woke up this morning!  Before I came here, I HATED the snow and the cold (hence one of the reasons I moved to Texas), but ironically, I am actually starting to like it.  It's a challenge to get dressed with the right amount of clothes on in an effort to keep from freezing!  I do feel sorry for my students though....how are they expected to learn with no heat?  Most of them sit in class with their blankets and coats bundled up. 

Along with teaching my regular 3rd grade class today, I also had to teach 1st and 2nd graders because the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders went on a ski field trip.  Although the 1st and 2nd graders understood nothing that I said (the English language isn't really enforced until 3rd grade), we were able to practice a little bit of english using the alphabet, Christmas songs, and coloring pictures. They had as much fun as I did!  I even sang "Jingle Bell Rock" for my 3rd graders!  Good times definitely!

One thing that has really caught my attention is the fact that if Korean students don't know anything else, they definitely know the real reason for Christmas (as well as Easter).  I have noticed that although they know about Santa Clause, he's not the first thing that comes out of their mouths......the REAL reason is.....the birth of Jesus Christ.  Mentioning Jesus Christ in the classroom is not looked down upon as it is in the states, and students are quick to ask, "Sarah teacha, are you a Christian?"  or "Sarah teacha do you go to church?"

Something to think about.......How much could our American children learn from Korean children?  And in the same breath, how much could Korean children learn from our American children? 

Service to ALL Mankind.....even in Korea.....SKEE-WEE!

My SORORS who are so PRETTY in pink and GORGEOUS in green held their annual scholarship Step Show, "So You Think You Can Step" this past weekend in Seoul.  At the end of the night, the scholarship goal was met and exceeded.  All nine Greek organizations were in attendance of which 3 Sororities (AKAs, Deltas and SGRhos) and 3 Fraternities (Kappas, Alphas, and of course...the Ques) stepped.  There were two non-greek groups who also stepped and showed out!  

Sorors doing their thang.....their theme was Flinstones....

For the most part it was a really good show for an even better cause.  There was a lot of Greek love, which I can always appreciate and I met a few Sorors who also live here.  I was quite surprised to see as many Greeks as I did!  I had no idea that there were so many here, not to mention the Greek "gear" that they were sporting! Ooh wee!  One of a kind is all I can say!  I was on a mission (most of the night) to find out where they got their stuff made.  Thanks to two of my Sorors I found out!  I guess you know where I will be this weekend!  Enjoy the pictures from the show!  

Oh yes!  Who won?!  The group that I wanted to win for the non-greeks didn't.  I wasn't too happy about that and I saw one little girl crying her eyes out in the bathroom.  The Deltas won for the sororities and I can't say which fraternity won because we left before they announced the winner.  I felt sorry for the judges on that decision because the Alphas did a fantastic job with their tribute to Ray Charles and the Ques.....well, what else is there to say........  

Non-greek group...

Deltas....theme was Charlie's Angels...

Kappas....

Alphas....tribute to Ray Charles....

Ques.....

Korean Drill Team...opened the show....

Well.....

We got a little bit of snow here!  As I was riding the bus to Seoul (to go to the dentist), I looked and had to do a double take, like is that really snow?!?  Yhep, sure was!  The closer (or so I thought) that the bus got to Seoul, the more traffic accidents I noticed.  An hour and 30 minute trip ended up taking two hours!  Nonetheless, I made it safe and sound!  

My first visit to the Korean dentist was a SUCCESS and best of all NO cavities!  My dentist, very thankfully, speaks excellent English (he went to Penn State).  He definitely knows his dentistry and their  equipment is hands down next to none...they have us beat!  I told him that the hygienist did a better job than the ones that I have had in the states!  Because I traveled so far to see him, he gave me my fluoride treatment for free (usually 30,000 won)! They don't give free "goodie bags" (with the toothbrush, toothpaste, floss) like they do in the states, but I did manage to get a free toothbrush!  I will definitely be back for my six month check up!  

On a different note......

I went to the grocery store today to pick up my weekly groceries.  I went to the check out line and the lady began to ring up my items.  When she rang up my soy sauce, she started laughing!  I was looking at her like what's so funny?  Then, she held it in her hand and laughed even more as she looked at the size.  I bought the smallest size, I guess that was funny to her?  Why would I buy a big bottle?  I live by myself, won't use it that often, and that is way too much salt!  Geesh!  

Finally, please know that I am safe with all the North Korea/South Korea mess that is going on.  I could feel a little bit of tension when I traveled to Seoul this weekend.  I noticed that it wasn't as busy as it usually is, but that could be because of the cold too! Thank you for your prayers and emails!  If nothing else, please continue to pray for the two countries for peace and UNITY!  

Highlight of Today

As I came into the office late this afternoon to go to my desk, I noticed that the big screen was on (yes, there is a huge t.v. in the teachers office).  At first I didn't think anything of it because it's not unusual to find teachers watching the 2010 Asian Games.  But then I noticed that something was a tad bit different because of how the other teachers were tunning into what was being said.  Of course, being in Korean, I wasn't able to understand anything that was being said. 

My co-teacher told me what was going on.  North Korea attacted South Korea.  It wasn't a big attack, but was nonetheless an attack.  Then, she later told me that if we were to undergo a full fledged attack, we (people in Seoseok, where I teach) would be in danger because we are close to North Korea.  My response was, "I'm not worried." She in turn said to me, "Pray that Jesus......" I finished her sentence...."protects us."

So that I could get a better understanding of what was happening, I went to CNN.com.  What do you know...it was the first thing that came up (under the Asia headline).  Below is the article from CNN.com:

Seoul, South Korea (CNN) -- North Korea on Tuesday fired artillery into the sea near its tense western sea border with South Korea, injuring at least 14 South Korean miltary personnel and two civilians, the Yonhap news agency reported.
Four of the military personnel were seriously injured, Yonhap said.
At least 200 rounds of artillery hit an inhabited South Korean island after the North started firing about 2:30 p.m. local time, Yonhap said.


South Korea's military responded with 80 rounds of artillery and deployed fighter jets to counter the fire, the report said.
The South Korean army also raised its alert condition, the report said.
Images of plumes of smoke were quickly broadcast on Yonhap television from the island of Yeonpyeong, but it was not immediately clear what the artillery had hit.
The island that was hit has a total of about 1,300 residents, a fisherman who lives on the island told Yonhap.


The South Korean government immediately called an emergency meeting of its security ministers.
The North Korean fire came as the South's military conducted routine drills in waters off the island.

It's not about me....

As we all know, Thursday is THANKSGIVING!  While everyone will be eating delicious, home cooked, homemade dishes, I will be teaching my students whatever lesson I have prepared for them that day.  Koreans don't celebrate Thanksgiving as Americans do; instead their "Thanksgiving" is in September and it is called Chuseok.

All jokes aside, as many of you prepare to be with family and friends this week, I ask that you please continue to pray for me during this adventure of mine, that I am able to do the best that I can to try and help shape and mold young minds despite the language barrier; pray for my own family that they don't worry about me, but are reassured that I am and continue to be covered on a daily basis; pray for my loved one for safe travels during this busy time; pray for the homeless who may not get a hot meal and enjoy their family; pray for Korea, the North and the South, that they may one day be unified, ending the long standing divide between the two.

Picture from the DMZ.
One side represents the North and the other the South. 

Thank you to EVERYONE who makes time to follow me and my Brand New Adventure.  It puts a smile on my face to hear that so many are following!

Enjoy and appreciate the time that you have to share with each other.  Have a WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!

What's Wrong NOW?

I woke up this morning prepared to wash.  I walked out to the "patio" and turned my head the other direction, towards the hot water heater, only to find a small puddle of water. Mind you, the hot water heater controls both the hot water and the heat. My first thought, call mom and see if pops is still up! Thankfully, it was still early there and they were both up (watching my Rock Chalk Jayhawks)! He told me not to worry about it and that it would be okay until I was able to get someone to look at it.

My mom reminded me to make sure to get it looked at.  My original "plan" was to wait until tomorrow (Monday) to tell my co-teacher, because I just knew that no one could really do anything today since it's Sunday.

I went to my next door neighbors (the same neighbors who helped me with the Lights Out).  Even though we couldn't really understand each other, we did the best we could.  She noticed that it was chilly in my apartment.  She left and called the office for me.  I thanked her.

When she came back she gave me a little cake from the bakery and told me that the office was closed.  I called my co-teacher back so that my neighbor could explain what was going on.  She left and I thanked her.

Minutes passed and this time, unexpectedly, my neighbor came back.  She held up her cell phone (all cell phones have translators) and it said "lend".  She then gave me her electric blanket to borrow so that I wouldn't be cold tonight.  After I said thank you more times than I can remember, I told her as best I could that I would return the blanket as soon as I got home from work tomorrow.

She didn't have to lend me the blanket, let alone help me, but she did.  One more thing to add to my "list", kind neighbors.

Nothing but GRACE and FAVOR.

Someone did come and fix the hot water heater; however, the job isn't done.  He will have to come back to replace one of the little "gadgets".  No worries!  :)

Thursday and Friday.....of last week

Thursday was Pepero Day.  This day is similar to our Valentine's Day, but instead of receiving chocolates, small sticks covered in chocolate is given (it is VERY delicious!).  I bought a stick for all of the teachers and for my high school students.  I was surprised when my students had boxes of Pepero to give to me!  One of my 3rd grade boys came and found me in my "office" to give me a box first thing in the morning.

Thursday and Friday were the 2010 G20 Summit in Seoul.  This is basically a gathering of about 18 to 20 nations to discuss global economical issues.  Because I had to work, I was not able to attend, otherwise I would have been there!  I was interviewed back in September regarding my thoughts about the upcoming summit (at that time I had no idea what is was let alone what it was about).  I had an opportunity to video record a message.  When I asked who was going to see it, I was told all of the "big" people.  My recorded message was (of course) about education and giving more money to the rural schools.  Hopefully, it was seen and heard. 

President Barack Obama was in Seoul for the Summit.  A friend of mind was able to actually meet him and shake his hand!  They even exchanged a few encouraging words! How AWESOME is that! 

Friday I taught my 3rd grade students a "Merry Christmas" lesson.  Keep in mind, I secretly knew where I was trying to go with this conversation.  Every moment is a teachable one!  Here was our conversation:

Me: Do you know Christmas? 

Students: (with excitement) Santa Clause! (others) Yes! Happy Birthday! 

Me: Happy Birthday?  What mean? 

Little Girl and Boy: Happy Birthday Jesus! 

Me: (with my heart smiling) YES! Very good!  It's Jesus' Birthday!   

When you pray I ask that you not only continue to keep me in your prayers, but please also pray for my friends.  As Lexi prepares for the LSAT next month, pray that God gives her wisdom, encouragement, and continued direction.  And pray too for Yatarra, that God continue to lead, guide, and direct her steps.  

Enjoy the pictures.  These were the winners from the "Create your Own City" assignment that I had them do! 

Culture Trip

This weekend was our (EPIK teachers in the Gangwon-do Providence) culture trip.  It was packed with eating, various events (Nanta performance, History of Seoul Museum tour, Police Museum, Lantern Festival...to name a few...), eating, visiting palaces, eating, a little bit of shopping, and more eating.  

I do not remember all of the palaces that we visited, but one was Gyeonghuigung Palace and the other was Gyeongbokgung Palace (this was the biggest by far).  Near this palace was the President's residence, which is called "The Blue House" (see the very last picture).  

Palace tour guide....

A few of the tour guide's students who briefly interviewed me....

One of the many palaces visited......

King's Quarters.....

And another....

I'm starting to enjoy photography.....

Seoul Lantern Festival......the amount of people present was unbelievable!
All of these are lanterns....definitely works of art to say the least.... 

Me being silly during some down time....

The President's residence.  On the other side of this mountain is
North Korea.....they tried to invade to assassinate him, but failed.  The security is very heavy.

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On a sad note, Baby Harper, for whom I asked you to pray for, passed away Wednesday.  Thank you for all of your prayers and I ask that you please continue to keep her mother and father in your thoughts and prayers.

...And we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him... Romans 8:28

The Shack and.....

I just finished one of the greatest books.....The Shack by WM. Paul Young.  This book is fiction, yet is SO real.  Through Young's words you are able to visualize all that he is talking about and may even be able to relate to some of what Mackenzie (the main character) battles with.  I couldn't help but get teary eyed from time to time as I read about the goodness, grace, and mercy of God that was shown throughout the book.  This book will cause you to do a "self check" and reflect on your own life.  Books that make you do that, in my opinion, are well worth the read!

On a different note, I ask that you please pray for some friends of an old, dear friend of mine from high school.  I believe in the power of prayer and this family needs it during this difficult time.  I don't know my friend's friend, but it doesn't matter.  If you think about it, Jesus healed many that He did not know and whom did not know Him, but that never stopped Him.....

Below is the information regarding my friend's best friend:


Last night my best friend, Sarah, was rushed in for an emergency c-section at just 26 weeks. Harper was born at 9:12 last night in critical condition. Tests have shown extensive bleeding in the brain and doctors have said that she needs a miracle. Please pray for Harper and for Dana and Sarah that the Lord would be close to them in this time. 

Sarah and Dana will be making tough decisions in the next few days, weeks, etc. Please pray for peace, wisdom, and sleep for them.

Harper is a fighter. Please pray for healing, life and a miracle.

From Dana before the test results came back: “Harper just had a brain scan to determine if there is activity. Please pray. She is such a miracle, and we lover her so much. Sarah is doing well. She is very sore, and has only seen Harper last night for a few minutes. Pray for peace as her mother’s heart is breaking…”  

I thank you in advance.....

slm

Goodie, Goodie, Gum Drops!

Goodie.........


As some of you may know (or not know) I am going to go back to the states for my winter vacation.  After the "teachers' meeting", of which I had no idea what was being discussed, I was asked if I had gotten my ticket.  I could have lied and said yes, but I told the truth and responded, "I am in the process of getting it."  Mrs. Young, my co-teacher went on to explain that the dates of my vacation would possibly be changing because of a change in date of the school's English Camp (I will be teaching at the camp).  My mouth dropped....literally.  My face started to get frowned up (kind of like how my dad's gets...lol), and she knew that there was a slight problem.  She asked me to hold on a second.......

During this second all I could do was pray.  I needed to pray not so that I would get the vacation time that I wanted, when I wanted it, but instead I needed to pray that God give me patience when working with Koreans, I asked that He help me with my attitude, and that He continuously help me to practice all 9 fruits of the spirit.

After a second (an hour later), Mrs. Young told me that I would still get my winter vacation and that I could actually leave early and not attend the Closing Ceremony for the school year or the teacher field trip.  (We start our new school year in February).  I told her that I wanted to attend both and that I didn't want them to have to change anything on my behalf.  She smiled and seemed not only pleased, but happy that I (actually) wanted to attend and was willing to push back my leaving to go home.

End result.....my vacation time remains the same.....  

Goodie....


As all of this was happening, I couldn't help but to shoot an email to Ivory and briefly explain to him what was going on.  In his understanding of the situation, he was more calm than I was and offered some reassurance.

Gum Drops....


I received a very nice package today from my mom and dad! I was too excited because I know my mom always puts her "special touch" on whatever she sends.  What did I get?  Oh some much needed items!  My winter coat (which is the greatest by the way, if you have never ordered from Columbia Sportswear, you should really look into doing so...if you live in cold places!), some lemon pepper, a beautiful little black girl figurine, flashlights, and a Christmas Devotional in which my mom was a contributing writer.

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On a different note, as we enter into the month of November and the "season" of Thanksgiving, I challenge all of you to find something new to be thankful for 365 days of the year and not just in the month of November or on Thanksgiving day......I always practice what I preach.......

Pictures from Hiking Namsan Mountain

View from the top! 

My friend Sunette from South Africa and I at the top

At the top of Namsan Mountain....it reads "Namsan"...412.7 km

Just Another Day in the Life of Sarah Lou....

I went hiking today for the first time in my life!  I went with a friend from South Africa.  I was more than appreciative that she had time to accompany me on the hike.  If I had gone by myself I know I would have gotten lost!  It was breathtaking to say the least, not to mention a wonderful workout, especially for the legs!  As cold as it was, I managed to work up a pretty nice sweat.

As we hiked she explained to me so many things about her country.  I now know (although I may not fully understand), the reasons as to why blacks are called, "blacks" or "colored".   Why was she telling me all of this?  Because I asked!  Before she started she explained that it could be a sensitive topic and that she didn't want me to take offensive.  I understood.  After she explained all of this, she went on to tell me more about South Africa.  I explained to her that I had never been to her country and had only seen movies about various places.  To my surprise, she informed me that a lot of what I have seen (in Blood Diamond, Hotel Rwanda for example), really happens.  All I could think to say was, "Unbelievable."  She went on to share more of her experiences of living in South Africa.  I asked if she wanted to go back after her contract expires in Korea and her response was that yes she planned on returning. She was born and raised there and her family is there and she loves her country despite what may be oppressing some of the people there.

Being here in Korea and hearing stories about other countries makes me even more proud to say that I am a United States Citizen.  Yes, we (America) have our fair share of problems and issues.  Yes, there is still hatred and prejudice.  BUT.....we are free!  Women can work and have children, we can go to another state as we please, our children don't have to work in fields, we have laws that govern and a justice system, that although we may not all agree with, is still in place.

Yes, I am proud to be a United States Citizen and being here makes me appreciate America that much more.

**Having issues posting pictures so I will try again tomorrow!** 

Pictures.....

Here are a few pictures from the weekend......

Saturday night I enjoyed dinner with my co-teacher Mrs. Kim (from the elementary school), the vice principal, his wife and son.  His son is a freshman in high school and speaks impeccable English.  He was the "translator" for the night.  During our conversation, I asked him about school, his studies, and what time he usually goes to bed.  Like most Korean students, he told me that he gets home at about 10 p.m., goes to bed at 12 a.m., and wakes up at about 6 a.m.  When asked about sleep, his reply was, "No time for sleep.  School work comes first!"

Mrs. Kim, co-teacher from Samseang Elementary......

Vice Principal, his wife and son "the translator" 

My favorite...SUNFLOWERS! It's a little wilted, but nonetheless pretty!

This is a supermarket (bottom)......and a gym (top).  I go to both!
It's not a 24 Hour Fitness, but it works for me! 

Very Interesting

Here are a few interesting things that I learned today......

1.  If you remember from an earlier blog I wrote about Koreans and how they age (they are already one years old when they leave the womb)......I also found out that they only age at the beginning of the new lunar year, which can change every year.  So if I were Korean, I would turn a year older on January 1st, not March 5th.  Their birthdate is just that....a day that they left their mother's womb.

2.  Kids at schools in bigger cities are much meaner than those in the smaller towns like my own. 

3.  If a student brings a weapon to school, specifically elementary or middle school, there really isn't anything teachers or administration can do.  They can only suggest counseling or that the child go to another school.  If the parent(s) don't agree, the child will remain in the school.  The school cannot kick the child out.  If the student is in high school and brings a weapon, then (and only then) can the student be expelled.  I assume this is because students pay for high school and elementary and middle school are provided because it is Korea's obligation to students.
**On a side note here, my co-teacher told me that she has never heard of a student bringing a weapon to school.  When I shared with her about one of my past students bringing a gun to school she was shocked.  She later explained to me that students usually fight physically, using their fists and legs to kick.

4.  After talking to my students, it seems that they do not realize that there is another world outside of Korea.  So many of them have no intentions of ever leaving, but there are quite a few who would love to have an opportunity to come and study in America.

5.  According to my co-teacher, Korea is changing.  Things are not how "they use to be".  Students don't want to think on their own and are lacking (good) common sense.  I told her that in some instances, American and Korean students are the same.  While all American students do not fit this statement, sadly, so many of them do.  I think the biggest difference between Korean and American students is that Korean students are so much more focused on and dedicated to their education.  It seems, from my own observations, that this attitude begins at the middle school level.  A perfect field trip would be to take a group of Korean students to America for one month, and then take a group of American students to Korea for one month! 

ㅕㅜ샤ㅣ ㅜㄷㅌㅅ 쌰ㅡㄷ! 
(Until next time).......

   

Good Times

Highlights of this week:
1. Receiving some much needed "goodies" from mom and dad
2. Receiving a very sweet note from an old high school buddy (Thanks SFJ!)
3. Getting some good, sound, advice from a strong Christian woman I know (Thank you much YD!)
4. Waking up every morning and realizing that despite how I may be feeling, I have something brand new to be thankful for.....everyday


One thing I learned this week:
Students have to pay to go to high school! I was having a conversation with my co-teacher and she was telling me that after middle school, it is the child's (and their parents) responsibility.  The Republic of Korea has an "obligation" to provide free education only until (after) middle school!  The cost?  She wasn't quite sure, but she paid 190,000 when she was in high school.  By the way, they pay per semester.  So, the spring semester is February to June (or July...not too sure) and the fall semester is August to January.


Enjoy the pictures below from Seoseok Middle School Field Day and Festival (held back to back, on separate days....)

Students lining up according to their class.....it was COLD!

Getting ready for a good ole' game of tug-of-war!

Dance Competition among the classes....

Group of girls dancing during Festival....

Talented young man.....

Teachers performing dance, led by a few students......

LIGHTS OUT!

Do you remember the last time your lights went out?

What was your first thought...besides, did I pay my bill this month?

Who did you call?  What did you do?

As I was trying to multitask this evening, cooking dinner (shrimp, eggs, and rice), washing clothes, and about to tune in to Season 2 of my favorite show 24 with good ole' Jack Bauer, the unthinkable happened!  My electricity went OUT!

I HATE any kind of darkness, Lord knows I do, but I didn't panic.  Here were my thoughts:
I haven't gotten an electric bill yet so I haven't had to pay anything. 
Where are the flash lights?  Shoot there aren't any!  (my pops and favorite uncle taught me to always have flashlights with fresh batteries and candles on deck...)
Where is the candle?  In the drawer.  
Lighter, matches?  I don't know! 
The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?

What did I do?

First, after realizing that I couldn't see ANYTHING, I got my U.S. cell phone and turned it on in hopes that I could get a little bit of light.  Remembering that I had just turned on my computer, I refreshed it to get more light. The Lord is my light and my salvation...... I propped my front door open to see if anyone else had the same problem.  Nope. The Lord is my light and my salvation....

I called my girl Lex to see what she did when her lights went out.  She did her best to give my some direction, but I couldn't find what she was telling me to look for.  I thought about calling my co-teacher, but then I thought, What can they help you do 30 minutes away? So, I went to find my electronic translator (thanks CP) and typed in the word "help".  After I practiced the pronunciation, I went to my neighbor's apartment.  Standing there, tears started to well in my eyes, not even knowing why I was getting ready to cry.  I didn't let them fall, there wasn't anything to cry about. I guess it was just an overwhelming feeling of emotions.  I rang the doorbell and she recognized me, as if to say, "Hi! You live next door."  I smiled, said "annyeonghaseyo" (hello), and then said "dowajuda" (help).  It didn't look like she was understanding me, so I showed her the translator.  I motioned for her to come with me and I pointed to her husband and motioned for him to follow too (why I needed him to come, I have no clue).

I thought that they would have to go all the way to the back of the apartment to turn a switch or something.  Instead, they poked their heads in, realized what the problem was, stood in the entry way and (he) lifted a small cover to the "breaker box".  He flipped the switch on and what do you know?  Lights ON!  I looked at both of them and said at least three times, "GAMSAHAMNIDA!!!!!" (the 'g' is pronounced like a 'c').  His wife smiled, nodded her head (a sign of you're welcome), and closed the door.  I got back to my multitasking........

I am thankful for friends who can offer help, family who have taught me what I think are basic survival lessons, such kind Korean people and that God calmed my fears and helped me to get though the period of not knowing what to do.

Make sure you have a plan just in case if your lights go out!  :)

"Breaker Box"

The switch was flipped off.  I didn't even know it, until my neighbor flipped it on!