Posts Tagged ‘Benxi’
Eight Months in China!
Today, October 20, is my eight month-iversary in China!
*throws confetti and blows a party horn*
It has definitely been a roller coaster of emotions over the past eight months. There have been times when I wanted to throw the towel in and say, “I’m going home, contract be damned.” Those feelings were sparked at multiple points by homesickness, frustration with the job, frustration with the roommates (who are also co-workers), and frustration with China and its culture. But, I told myself that I had committed to this (both publicly and personally) and I would stick with it to the end.
Then of course, there were other times when I was having a blast and sure, I missed home, but at that moment, everything was going pretty well. Although, I have never, in all my time here, said, “Oh, this is definitely a place I’d like to live.” I have never, ever said that about China.
The job is all sorts of rewarding, just like I had hoped it would be when I started. I have come to know my students (the ones I’ve had since February), on a personal level and I’ve become rather attached to them, particularly a group of 7-year-olds whose first English class ever was with me. When they started in March, the could barely say, “My name is ____,” properly, but now they’re asking me what my favorite food is, what my favorite color is and what my favorite animal is. It’s very gratifying to witness this transformation. I also have a class of about six 10-year-olds, and their English is good enough that they can actually argue (in a good-natured manner) with me. They happen to be my favorite class.
One of the biggest lessons I learned as an exchange student to Brasil in high school have come into play here: if you’re feeling homesick, stop talking to people from home, and instead, keep busy. Go out and see and do things, make plans with people, take a day trip. When I’m feeling particularly sad, I make plans with the assistants, who I’ve become quite close with. This type of job can get lonely sometimes, but you just have to make the best of it, and take the good with the bad.
It doesn’t feel like it’s been eight months (although I bet if you ask my mother, she’ll tell you different), but if the changing leaves are any indication, it has been. I am so excited for the next four months, and the months after that!
Picture Post: Taizi He at night
This is the Taizihe (Taizi River) at night, and that's the Caixi Bridge all lit up going to Benxihu. It was a beautiful night, cool but a little humid. There was also a light and water show.
