Sunday, August 5, 2012

Ya'an, we'll be missing you.

We have finished our last days teaching in Ya'an, and have said our good-byes. Our last week in Ya'an was a very memorable one. I don't think we realized how much of an impact we were having on our student teachers until it was time to say good-bye to them. In fact, we did not say good-bye at all, but rather, taught them a final English phrase, "Farewell!", which we all decided was a much better way in which to depart from one another. We were both glad to have completed our task there and a bit sad to have to go. Thankfully, we live in a digital age teeming with social-networking options for staying in touch with friends in far away places. For that is the best thing that we both gave and received during our time in Ya'an, friendship.

Thursday night we celebrated with another round of Hot Pot for dinner followed by ice cream at our friend Nancy's favorite place. Afterwards we were somehow convinced to go to KTV, China's version of karaoke. Some of the students rented a private room and we all sang our hearts out. Kim was even able to convince me (Erik) to sing a couple songs. In the absence of any Johnny Cash music I opted for Elvis' "Blue Suede Shoes" and could only keep up for about half the lines. We both sang the Ting Tings "Shut Up and Let Me Go" to everyone's wonder and amazement. (our first duet!!!) Friday was a nice meal with all of our assistants, our host, and his family. On Saturday we were driven to the airport and ushered through the departure process by Mr. Li, his son, and Nancy. As we went through security I looked back to see them waiting behind the barrier, hoping for a last glance and a wave which we all cheerfully provided. The last I could see, they were still waiting there, seeing us off to the last moment, just like in some old black and white movie. What wonderful memories and friendships we have from our adventure here!

Today (Sunday), we have reconnected with all the other Amity teachers and shared our stories with one another. We all shared some good and some not so good experiences, but we all shared happy memories, despite the struggles of living in another country even for a short time. Along with our new Chinese friends, we have also made new friends from Canada, England, Ireland, Germany, and various states in the US. What a rich experience this has been!

Tomorrow, we embark upon a week of travel with our new host, David, from the China Christian Council. We will visit, Zhoukhou, Xi'an, and Beijing to see some more mission projects, tourist sites, seminaries, and churches. Stay tunes for more pictures and descriptions of our experience!

3 comments:

  1. I've injoyed following your adventures. Saying farewell is bitter sweet. Like you said rich experiences, I'm sure will impact your future. I love and miss you both, Mom

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  2. Thanks guys, keep posting, love reading about your journey. So happy your enjoying your experience and proud to hear your impact on others! Keep up the good work, Love you guys, Aunt Barbara

    ps your favorite aunt....

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  3. WOW! fun go and be there but leaving is tough after getting to know people. Now I want to hear BLUE Suede shoes when u get home!!!! glad u had a great time. DAD

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