First Day of School. The same nerves that run through everyone on their first day of school were kicking in as I walked up the stairs to room 203. I have never taught at a college level before, I definitely have not taught Chinese. Would they like me? Would they be able to understand? All these worries and thoughts were flying around my brain, but within an instant the madness stopped! As I let go of Jeremy's hand and stepped foot into my classroom, I was immediately filled with peace and joy!
Their smiling faces and eager hearts just makes you melt :) I greeted the 10 or so students who arrived early and then began writing on the chalk board. It may be messy, but writing on a chalk board is totally teacher and made my day. The first class went well, it was a little bumpy but for the most part my lesson was accomplished and the students left smiling. As that class left, the second arrived and I started all over. This time with a passion and a confidence. I loved Teaching! I loved the students! I am so blessed to be doing this! All the students got to ask me a question, which was my favorite part. The general conciseness was that they all want to know why I don't have kids or when I will, they want to know if I like Chinese food, and if I will be their friend. My favorite question was from the class clown, "Mrs. Majors may I teach you a Chinese word?" I said yes of course and then he muttered something I have no clue how to repeat let alone type, and the whole class started laughing. A sweet girl informed me, that he taught me how to tell him he was handsome! haha Here is my second class saying "Hi this is Mrs. Major's class" :)
I have been contemplating what to write on my blog lately. I am going through a time in the culture shock/stress phase that is hard to put into words. However, just the other day as I sat on the floor starring out the window the words came. Heart Broken. That kind of heart- ache that consumes your body, leaves you somewhat depressed and the pain is so real it feels physical. I feel like I just had a bad break-up. I was told Nov/Dec are going to be hard months, but I got through November and then …heart break. I am not sure why. But I have my guesses. The adventure of moving here and starting life here is over. I am officially here. I am living life in China. With that being said; now I am realizing that life in China isn’t easy all the time, I miss home and life there, and that living life here is going to be more of a sacrifice than I originally thought. Its not temporary. This is a hard realization. I think for the past 5 months I have been in survival mode. Knowing if I just pushe...
Loved this post, Tama! Especially seeing your students! We think of you and Jeremy often and can't wait to hear more updates (my kids really liked this last video). Lots of love!
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