Rubble of Thoughts

November 14 | Monday

Where did the days go? We're halfway through November. The earth keeps on rotating without minding if its inhabitants are okay with its movement.

I have been missing in action here and that's because I'm assigned to a place where there's no internet connection. The place where I'm from technically got no mobile signal too but we have an internet connection there. In my workplace, there was an internet connection before but sadly it was affected by the typhoon too.

That's one of the cons of being assigned there. I got no choice for it would be impossible to come home for me every day as the road is rocky and slippery. Plus, I got to cross a river. I would surely arrive at school late just like every other teacher there.

In the morning, I would have to endure the cold water in the basin that I use for the shower. There's no way for me to demand hot water as I'm not at home. There were no food stalls or cafeteria there. Just a few stores whose supplies are limited and expensive. As a result, I have to make do with canned goods and noodles as my viand for the whole week.

Compared to the life I have before in my previous employment, this one is inconvenient. It even seems miserable. But circumstances wouldn't change if I would keep on crying and ranting about my situation. There's a lot of work to do. Many are non-readers. Many are none competent, especially in Math and spelling. The kids seem to only show their interest in Art. They seem to come to school just for the sake of attendance and without the intention of learning.

I have thought of giving up already. Escape and lead a life that's totally different from what I have now. I'd never imagined that the result of culture shock would be this severe. But then, I thought of giving myself time. Maybe I'll get the hang of it in a few months. If not, then I'd cross the bridge when I get there.

It would be nice if I could make a little different during my short stay. I hope to inculcate in their heart the value of learning beyond just showing up in class. I hope to influence the teachers too for them to see and address the real needs of the kids. I know I would be susceptible to criticism. There's a high chance for them to influence me rather than the other way around. Yet, I'm determined to do what's right.

I'm a newbie full of hope,and idealistic, and I have a lot to learn too. I pray I would never be the same person I bark to. I hope I'd gain meaningful experiences while I'm in the field. I also hope that I would grow and become a better person each day while I'm there.

Thanks for reading. Until then.

*lead image is from unsplash.com