Marshmallow and hot dogs on a stick!

That's right...today I experienced the Filipino way to eat hot dogs...with a marshmallow on top. Ummm....I didn't participate in case you were wondering. I don't think my body could handle the hot dogs here...so pretty sure the two mixed together would be horrible! Yikes! 

What struck me though is that might be the only part of this culture that I have learned about. That thought makes me so sad because I know that these people have roots and culture. I know that there is so much more to this country than what I have experienced. But it seems to be hidden beneath piles of deceit. Around every corner I hear desperation...I see people being used...people being misunderstood. How do we notice the world around us, when we feel like we are locked away from the truth of it?

I'm not leaving dissatisfied with my time here, but I am leaving wishing that I had known more. Wishing that I could have formed bonds that couldn't be so easily broken or torn apart. Wishing that the protective bubbles could be a little less and the vulnerability a little more.

 My students...they will be what I remember. Their quirky personalities. The way they changed and grew, but mostly the smiles and laughs I heard today!

Leaving

Leaving...

It has become a norm in my life. I have left so many places that I'm not actually sure what it might feel like to be somewhere for longer than 5 years. I want that though. A place to dig roots, to settle...to be a part of community. I almost had it once, but it wasn't time. 

So, here I am preparing to leave yet again. Excited to see what the next chapter brings...but also sad to say farewell. 

I have learned a lot this year. Starting in one country and moving to another. I have found my voice this year. A voice that I have been afraid of before now. My voice may not have been listened to, but I at least found it.

Life isn't easy when confined to the school grounds...but it has taught me to be thankful. 

I will leave here changed.....and perhaps a little more distrusting, but I will leave knowing where I belong...finally knowing where I need to be.