Ladies and Gents, I am proud to tell you that today the grocery was a success! Grocery shopping has been a source of stress and frustration since being here. Which unfortunately leads to an empty frig.
Today I knew I needed to go shopping and I was dreading it. I called Rachel, our team mate, to see if she wanted to join me and I grabbed my list and we were off. To my surprise I felt like I knew what I was doing. I knew where all the things on my list were and I brought enough bags to help me carry them home.
The vegetable market came next. Now, this place is hard. No signs, no English, and definitely no awards for cleanliness or sanitary conditions. This is where the panic attacks normally begin. I walked in and all of a sudden, I remembered Chinese. I spoke a little and they understood. When they told me how much, I understood! I walked away with a full bag of fresh veggies, a clam spirit, and a rejoicing heart! Today I am praising him for my Chinese success!
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! ...

Good job! It IS scary! Very proud of you.
ReplyDelete