Making a difference?

I met one of the parents today. She told me her son, who never showed interest in English now says he's enjoying it. I think it has to do with introducing games - UNO. Simple card game that I forced them to say the color and the value each time they had to put the card down - forced him to participate. I got the idea from one of the very young teachers from the teachers' conference in September. He's slower than others and not very good at remembering. I'm happy to hear that he's enjoying English classes. I hope he will continue.

Busy holiday season

I've been busy - shopping, cleaning etc. I was wisked off to Everland with 1000 other Native English teachers in Kyunggi province. It was fun and walked around a lot. Everland is an attemp to recreate Disneyland in Korea with unrecognizable characters, full of clichés.

My school forbade this site so I'm leaving a short note.

Sleepless in Anyang

I've been catching up on sleep since the weekend. Last weekend was the first Introduction Leaders program in Seoul. Landmark Forum leader Poorani came to town and on her week off a month - she decided to cause the transformation of Korea. It's been an awesome weekend. They took off like a rocket with an introduction that was scheduled 2 hours in preparation. They had 6 guests and 3 registered. Koreans seem to have an aversion to freedom. Maybe it's a side effect of many years of uncertainty, threats and unpredictable changes. They try so hard to be perfect and the perfection is just the bare minimum acceptable stage. So finding freedom, self-expression and standing up for oneself are hardly practiced by the citizens. Since I'm the only graduate of the program, I'm supporting the program by supporting Hyunsu. Hyunsu is the lady who took on transforming Korea. A mother of 4 who is beautiful and vibrant. She leads all the introductions, seminars and translates all the programs.

The Landmark Forum gives a glimmer and a break open to a new possibility of being and is truly remarkable how it works.

I'm jealous how it took off in Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore. There's a definite intention to have a center in Seoul next year.

On an different subject. I got myself a roll-away piano for Christmas. It's a size of a book and not heavy at all. I downloaded "The first noel" sheet music and realized it's easier to follow my ear than the music sheet. I'm gonna surprise auntie with it.

Recurring dream

I had this dream - which was a continuation from the dream from last Thursday - that the family was finally able to reclaim the things we left at some inn as a hostage. They included furniture, pictures, shoes and mom got some beautiful sweaters back. I got some funky shoes back too. We got there just in time. If we were just a bit late, all of our things would have been auctioned off.

Last time the dream ended when I wondered what were the things we left behind. This may come from the times when my parents were running from debtors and we lived from hotel to hotel but we could not pay so we left everything and ran off at night. So I always wondered when my possession would end.

I felt good about these dreams.

It's snowing!

I heard a loud thunder and lightening, then saw the snow. The principal is going around forbidding everyone not to turn the heat on in the afternoon because - the temperature rises to above zero. So the kids and teachers are all wearing coats in the classroom. I don't know why they don't use the coal heater. I hope at least there will be a long winter vacation.

I had the teacher come to control the class for the 6th graders. They are trying to be cool and troublesome.

My stomach ache yesterday really was quite something. I thought I was going to faint. I am amazed that I feel fine today.

I am studying grammar and realize that I never learnt that stuff!. It turns out that during the time I was being educated, they underplayed the grammar. It probably is due to the fact also, that I went to French high school. Anyways, I'm glad to be learning it -- better late than never.

Having a different cold

I got a flu shot for about 25 bucks. But I guess it's no good for common colds. I think I'm getting a new different kind of cold on top of the one that's going away in andante. I still kinda sound funky. I have this guy who's pretending to be a brit via skype but I can tell that he's from an arab country. His English is awful and he gave me his only son's name. Except that he forgot that he told me one name last week and he gave another one this time. He says he lives in London but in his profile, it says Liverpool. Why does he go through all that hoola-hoop I wonder. So far I was amused by the maskerade. I told him he "sounds" more like an arab guy. I'm beginning to develop an "already always listening" about the arab guys.

Having a cold

It is warmer here than in Canada - however, there hasn't been any heat for the last 2 weeks where the temperature was hovering around 4-10 degrees so it felt as though I was in the fridge all day. Well so with all my turtle necks (I never wear them in Canada until the temperature goes down to about 20 below), I got a cold. My voice is funky and I cannot seem to be as effectively nasty to quiet down the kids.

I have fun with some of them and must admit they are growing on me. For example this girl Kate, she always begs me for English tests. She goes through them like pop corns. She makes funny duck noise. I thinks she's a very bright kid.

There's also this kid who comes to school from an orphanage. Well his parents left him there when they got a divorce. It seems that they re-married and stop coming to visit him. Yet, he's bright and upbeat. He doesn't seem to grow as fast as others. I gave him an alphabet book to encourage him to learn it. I think it may have worked.

World is going the right way

I have been feeling outside the loop, not making a headway, feeling guilty, etc... about making this world a better place. It seems however, that there are leaps and bounds :
For example, the Microcredt movement - Alliance of Students Against Poverty - http://www.asap2025.org/. This fundraising mechanism aims to have 2 million people give $1 a day till 2025 to fund micro finance organizations and then in turn eradicate poverty by 2025.

The one laptop per child has started to produce so it is now (as of November 2007) available to buy by the general public at $400 a piece - one will go to you (or your child) and another will go to another poor child in a poor country.

So I just gathered evidence towards my promise - without actually doing much. Loving it.

Uncle#2 post Landmark Forum

My uncle before the Landmark Forum: would drink periodically. Sometimes until he's in a stupor and will have a reall downer moments for several days. It drove everyone absolutely crazy, especially my 96 year old grandmother who still feels guilty sending him to his uncle to be his son - a common custom in Korea at the time.

My uncle after the Landmark Forum: Still drinks periodically, but manages to be pleasant drunk. He still blames his mom but doesn't seem to harbor that dark resentment/blame towards her anymore. His mood is light and seems more receptive to suggestions - especially that makes hime work around the house. He also seems to enjoy participating with the seminar.

In one word: transformation - ok it did not fix him completely in 3 days as I hoped. But it's impressive so far.


At work, it's getting chilly and the school hasn't started heating yet. So it feels like I'm in a fridge all day. There was a 6 year old hiding out in the bathroom because he missed the bus to go to the day care and could not go back home. He didn't have his mom's phone number but said his sister comes to this school. He didn't remember what grade he was in. Finally the school administrator found the sister's name and called the mother to come and pick him up. It was an event ful day on Thursday.

I don't know why the kids insist on screaming their head off. Especially 1st and 4th graders. For the 4th grader, I kept talking quieter and quieter and that drove them absoloutely nuts.

More people in the Facebook

I am so happy 2 more friends decided to join the Facebook. It is so easy to keep track of birthdays, share favorite movies, music and etc. Today I dressed up and put on more make up to take pictures. It is provided by the school for the graduation album for the 6th graders. It was fun to see all the dressed up teachers. I understood why people dressed up and put on make up. The kids just stared at my face for a long time, followed me around - those kids who never before paid attention to me- especially little boys. I had to laugh.

Drama

The Landmark Forum started with 45 people. It took a lot to make that happen and I was excited to see my uncle and my co-teacher in it. There were some uninvited dramas but so far it is a breakthrough for human beings for all. I am so proud of all the participants.

www.landmarkeducation.com

Life is amazing.

Got some shopping done

I found a nice store - was a bit on the expensive side but Thank goodness because, if it wasn't for the sweater I got yesterday, I would be freezing to death right now. Since there's no heat yet at school, It feels quite chilly in the corridors where all the windows are still wide open.

I now have a 4th grader who's kind of following me everywhere. She's cute. What a smart cookie. Some first graders are funny too.

The trick to have the kids who are trouble makers kiss the wall for a while seems to work. I like it because it's cruel but not violent. I don't need to be super angry or loud to control the classroom.

I got a lead from Janet about a job where they're looking for someone who speaks English and French. I'll check it out.

Was I wrong?

I thought the Koreans were the most sexually repressive people in the world but my visit to my Dad's province is making me wonder. The traditional lovestory is all about the love between a prostitute's daughter and an aristocrat's son. The whole setting about the celestial theme park and the later Choon Hyang's theme park both are very romantic and artsy. I prefer the old style one. It was lovely. It seems I prefer the old looking buildings - even though they are newly built. I learned so much about the culture and education system. The food was just amazing in the south west province where my father came from. It somewhat explains why my dad was so courageous to go after my mom - the impossible became possible. It's kind of sweet.

http://travel.webshots.com/album/561065189kGZbBi

http://travel.webshots.com/album/561063956tRAllL

Just some thoughts

I am interested in what makes something manifest your desires. I have had experiences where I had a very simple desire and thought - wouldn't it be nice if I had that and have if come through very easily. One was my toe shoes. I have no use for it but I wised I had them. The very next day my ballet teacher showed up with a pair that would only fit me. It was gorgeous ping pair with Swede toes, she got them in Italy that she could not wear because they were too small.

I also had this simple wish to visit my Dad's hometown. My employer - the City of Uiwang is sending me to that part of the country so that I can learn more Korean culture and become better English teacher.

Now I ponder, what can I imagine in life that would be so delicious that I have no resistance imagining it and having it?

Choosuk and more

The choosuk holiday was productive. I got a bookcase and a dresser and went through every single dusty book and cleaned up. It was very satisfying but exhausting. We had a tense day Choosuk. I participated in the ceremony. I thought about my mom and dad and missed them a lot. It was nice to be around cousins I don't see very often. Grandma seemed happy with all of her offsprings around.

Choo Suk

The long weekend is coming up. The school is buzzing with activity. I got this "Dried Fish" gift box, the size of a computer from parents association. I have no clue how to prepare them. I hope my aunt does. One of the mother who had a leading role in the play also gave me 2 tickets for a movie. I wonder who I'll go with. Maybe I'll go by myself twice. I'm so glad the 6 Landmark leaders came back from Bankok safely. I don't feel so overwhelmed with the responsibility. They are bouncing off the walls. It's so cool to hang around them. When all looks so dark and dim, having a conversation shifts everything around.

September events

So far I have had a very eventful month. The school started on September 3rd. OK it would have been the Labor day in Korea but I get 4 days off at the end of the month - ChooSuk long weekend (I get 6 days off with the weekend). Besides I was at this training for the new teachers for the whole week at this fancy resort. I met some interesting people from the English speaking countries - U.S., U.K., Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Ireland and South Africa. 40 of them came from University of London, Ontario, right out of school. It must be that the biggest employer in London, Ontario of the fresh graduates must be the Gyung-gi province in Korea.

On the September 14th, my students who prepared for the English theater/arts festival performed.

I was holding the "leadership role" while all the main leaders went for the training in Bangkok for the Landmark Forum team in Korea.

My grandma - another dozing off moment is hilarious. My polite Aunt was returning her "bow".

New opportunity

I am presented with a new opportunity to work at a Recruiting firm for English teachers. The more I think about it more I feel excited. Although It may be a bit more of a risk, I think it is worth taking the chance. Mom and Aunt both agree that I should jump at this. It will also be the office of the Landmark Education (evening office) so I won't have to go far to assist. I think it will be exciting.

Eventful month

Since Granma's birthday, I've been mostly working at the English camps. There's one provided by the school and the other one provided by the city. I was not happy to find out that I am one of the ones who's not treated as well. It turns out the other teachers did not get to have such a long camp period and if they had, they could take off for the afternoon.

I've also been busy with the budding Landmark Education work in Seoul. I'm very impressed with the people participating here. It's so inspiring to see the transformation of some one's life in front of your eyes and to be on the team to make that happen.

Grandma's tenant from hell set up a doggy soup restaurant - without consulting the landlord, nor the licence from the city government nor from the national park office. So the tigress auntie complained to the officials and they tore it down. He had the usual drunken fit. He was threatening to set fire to the whole place and ended up in the police station with uncle (Thank god for uncle this time). After the long night at the police station, he was set free with a warning. The next night his best friend had the drunken fit and we told him to take his friend with him if he's so precious to him. He was also escorted by police to his home.

So far, they are quiet after 2 nights of rowdiness. This made me mad. I'm madder because I can't seem to do anything effective. I want to just kick them out and tear down his room. But then, I don't know if that won't provoke more stupid actions from them. So, here I thought I was kinda smart but so totally useless.

The impossible hot weather is not helping. What a gal to do???

Granma's birthday

It was a busy day. Granma seemed happy with her 3 sons and a grandson, a daughter in law. She worked all day cleaning and washing. She did not complain a single time. The eldest daughter in law did not show up - which made it not as stressful to the rest of us. I went to get a cake and some beer. I thought someone would show up with a cake so I did not get one. There was a pouring rain and started thunder and lightening. It turns out later that there were 4 people who died - hit by the lightening. Well the menu wasn't impressive - we ordered chinese but I guess it was eventful enough day.

Most of all, the day passed in peace.

Piece of cake

The work schedule is light for the summer. I work basically in the morning. Have the total of 14 students - 8 in the first hour, 3 the next and 3 and I get them all for games before lunch.

It is a real breeze. I am not complaining as long as they pay me to do it.

Last day of the semester

I was walking around taking some pictures of the munchkins and co-workers. I was dreading the summer camp because - I will be all alone to tackle the munchkins. It turns out there are altogether 13 kids so I am feeling rather soothed. I think I can handle 13 of them.

Here are some pictures. I think I found a Korean Madeline.

Field trip

All members of the primary school employees went for a field trip - supposedly a training weekend but mostly about eating and drinking. It was really fun - except for the drinking part. The guys drank fast then got sick fast. Some women drank until there wasn't any alcool left. And they were wide awake to clean up before going to bed.

Got a DVD player and installed at Aunts. I got the one for $100 and I felt complete.
Granma never stops talking about food, making food, food she tasted when she was 15, 20, 30,.... on and on and on. I told her no more! But then she stopped then continued about 5 minutes later. She really forgets way too often. She asks what is this dish and we had to answer 12 times and if I hadn't told her no more, she would have asked 12 more times. What an annoying lady sometimes.

Cool rainy morning

It's so nice to get breeze and cool air. The evening at the introduction was very good. HyunSu was very good in presenting the Landmark Forum in Korean. I was really impressed. My uncle participated quite a bit. He wants to come again without me in 2 weeks. I'm glad at least he seems to be interested.

My co-worker came with her 4 year old and thank goodness he behaved quite nicely. She seemed interested too. I am not going to push anything. I'll leave it up to them.

Today one of the girls who really did not respond to anything was all enthusiastic about doing a mime game. I'm so intrigued at how some of the kids are totally unresponsive to one method and so turned on by other methods. They blow my mind.

Hoping for a miracle

I'm wondering if Uncle #2 who decided to come to the introduction to Landmark Forum will indeed register and then have huge breakthroughs. I can see that I am planning to be disappointed and I decided to stop it.

But the fact that he has agreed to come to the introduction is kind of a miracle.

Dream

I had a very busy and strange dream. I was in an elevator - shaky one and this is a recurring theme. I am wanting to get to the top and having a difficult time. I had a cool idea about something and I mentioned it and the stressed boss almost bit my head off - saying he will put me in charge when the problem became visible. Also I had a dream that I saw Celine Dion, pregnent and naked. I could feel her baby squirming inside.

I wonder if all this has to do with the carpenter acting up. Since uncle got his Korean citizenship back, he - the carpenter - must have felt threatened.

Hoping and praying for a new breakthrough for uncle

I foolishly agreed to have 2 registrations for Landmark Forum this week. Well it felt like a silly thing to do at the time when I promised. Well so far there's Janet who sounds really interested and my (tile) uncle and a teacher from my school who may come to the introduction next Tuesday.

I hope my uncle decides to take the Forum and finally take charge of his own life - let go of blame and shame altogether.

Busy and eventful week

On Thursday evening, I went to the meeting of Landmark Education at a fancy Plastic surgery clinic in Kang-nam (richest neibourhood in Korea). I was glad to meet the Korean and other graduates. I'll be helping out with Registration fulfillment.

I also met Janet - the lady who gave me the courage to come to Korea and teach English. She seemed like the expert and I was quite jealous. But then again I know she wasn't the expert on the day 1 or on day 23.

I met Hae Duck auntie. She came with her daughter and grand daughter. She was very cute.
Her daughter looks like a devoted mother and wife. I remember her from when she was just a little kid.

Mom disappeared for a night and drove me absolutely nuts. Finding her again gave me such a relief.

Here's a cool video: Love is my religion.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heUVrcYWqOc

More side benefits

My co-worker is urging me to come up with the list of books worth US$400. It seems they have been waiting for me to spend the money. I got some games with my own money then they said - get the list with amount then they'll buy from some budget. It's funny how "government" works in all those places. Tons of paper work is required but then they are willing to spend an almost ridiculous amount of money.

I threw out some unruly kids yesterday. I felt that it was better that they roam then climb up the windows and fall.

We shall see.

Results are clean

It's been kind of yucky to wait for the biopsy and ultrasound results from my visit earlier in the month. It took 10 days and even though the first visible signs were clean I just wanted to make extra sure. Thank GOD - they came back clean. I seem to have a new lease on life. I celebrated by bringing a large size pizza to aunt's.

Uncle's finally got his Korean citizenship back so that's another long awaited (13 years) endeavor that got finally completed.

I am grateful and look forward to more interesting future without hesitation.

Getting my hands dirty

I decided to do some random testing of the students. It turns out 40% of fifth graders don't know how to write lowercase alphabets. It shocked me to find out that some of these guys have been trained as parrots. It is unthinkable for me to think that they know the alphabet song but have no idea what they are for or don't know "i" from "k".

Some of the kids are so cute they look like they're right out of the Madelaine cartoon. Some first graders actually run towards me when the see me.

Breakthrough with the first graders

I have finally managed to keep the first graders concentrated and quiet. I had them color and cutoff foodstuff pictures - then I called them out to see if they can identify the name and the food. I could hardly believe myself. Thank God for Cindy who gave me the website and the tip to manage them. I am so lucky to have met her. It was so much more enjoyable.

There are some very bright kids and I am now more in the position to hear them cos not everyone is screaming their head off.

I also did some writing test for the 6th graders. I can see that many of them did quite well contrary to what I've been warned.

Completion

After the first full week at teaching, I went to visit grandma and auntie. Friday I went to Lotte mart on Seoul station (cos that's the only one I know where you can buy virtually anything). That place is an amalgamation of Zellers, Pharmaprix, dollar store, and a major supermarket. So I finally got a hat to prevent me from going prune-ish prematurely.

Saturday I put the mosquito net for their window. It is a virtual bee-hive, there since they are going absolutely nuts trying to build one before the monsoon season.

Today - Sunday, I had two visitors at aunt's. Aunt's old friend Juan who is a Catholic brother. He is getting older but got thinner than I remembered. Also the big uncle showed up unexpectedly. Without the presence of his fearful wife the atmosphere was much lighter and the lunch was quite enjoyable.

Brother Juan offered to help me get resources if needed. He tried to get an English school going and failed to get a permit from the district. So he seems to have lots of resources for ESL.

I noticed that I did not resent or blame anyone so far. So that alone must be a factor in having a light atmosphere.

After getting home, I felt home enough to unpack one of Lana's boxes. There was a nice big speaker that I hooked on to my laptop and am enjoying music - so much more than noise from TV.

Slowing down a bit

I am getting used to my routines. I no longer take it personally that kids are climbing up the walls and screaming. I do make corrections. I am growing my territories.
I had a chance to meet other Native(?) English teachers from this city. There are 7 of us and we had a meeting yesterday to set up the 2 week summer camp activity.

I put a question mark because the 6 of us who showed up were Korean natives who finished their studies in the English speaking countries from various backgrounds - Music, arts etc.

I like myself - in the way that my obsession is more about how to make the kids understand and learn more.

I must admit, I miss the night life in Montreal. Can't wait for more social life to start.

Settling and unsettling

Kids are getting restless. I would be too. It's hot and humid and cooped up in the classroom is not the place to be calm and collected. I went to the Native teachers meeting at the Provincial office. We were all of Korean ancestry and spoke in Korean.

Got some tips on how to keep the kids busy. I'm going to check their sites. It may be fun to do the summer camp setup with them. I volunteered to teach dancing and yoga.

Finally connected!

I have the Internet connection as of yesterday afternoon. They are so competitive, I'm getting $100 just for signing up. Got my cell phone hooked as well (they call it hand-phone here).

I got some books at the "What the book" book store at Itaewon. There are more foreigners there than Koreans so I felt "at home".

So far, I am a bit panicky about keeping the young ones' attention but overall, I cannot complain. My coworkers seem to be gentle loving kinds of people and the school is quaint and small (only one home-room per grade).

Kids are all over the place. Some practically fluent and some don't know the alphabets. And a few are "special"kids. Developmentally challenged or deaf.

So far first graders give me the headaches but they're also the cutest.

Some pictures:

Grandma falling asleep while reading the newspaper.

Auntie making cold-noodle soup.

View from my window.

My new appartment.

Day 3 on the job

I had a dream on the evening of the 5th that I was floating over a bridge that looked fantastic. It was over a calm blue water and had the color of light gold on platinum. Grandma says it is a good dream and I believe it also.

On the evening of the memorial day, I was invited to go for dinner with the other English teacher's family. The husband was really paying too much attention so I felt a bit uncomfortable.

On my day 3, I feel less terrified. However, Day 1 with the 1st graders were the toughest day of my life. They were litterally climbing up the walls and opening everything and tripping over all the things.

Day 2 was less threatening and I was somewhat prepared. It looks like I get to create games - completely up to me.

I look forward to mastering the art of teaching English.

Busy busy

I will start working on Tuesday the 5th. In the meantime, on the 31st, I went to get Uncle's documents to be notarized, went to school to meet with the assistant teacher and get a tour, took a look at the appartment - the view is great but it is kinda country. I met with lana who had some huge suitcases. She and I stayed at an Inn in Insadong. The evening was delightful with great company and great places - tea house with an amazing garden and a restaurant with a nice garden as well.

On the 1st, Lana left for Montreal and I met with Uncle to complete his renunciation of Canadian citizenship procedure. Finally all papers were complete and they gave him a certificate saying they have received the payment and the application. It gave me a sense of an accomplishment and took the rest of the day off.

I found out this morning that Lana arrived from Mom. I went shopping for some bedding and started to get overwhelmed by what's ahead. Moving for one and starting a job with no prospect of training period.

But Aunt says all will work well and I trust her and myself.

Getting over the jet-lag

I am having easier time than ever adjusting to the Korean Time zone. Now I feel a bit sleepy around 6 p.m. I've been told that jet-lag gets adjusted about 1 hour per day. So since I've been here about a week, I've adjusted to the 6 hour difference.

Uncle no.2 is such a different person when he's not drinking. I can almost say he seems confident and relaxed. He doesn't seem bitter, angry and restless. There's a vague resemblance to the favorite uncle I used to know.

Sunday, uncle no. 1's wife and the son came to visit. We had to watch out to see that she doesn't throw out things. She has a tendency to do that without permission of the owners. It is because she thinks she owns them. Much talkative grand mother was silent the whole time. I felt sorry for grandma. Well in fact, I felt sorry for both of them. Both forever regurgitating the past, chewing over same blame game over and over again. I wonder if they're not tired of that stupid game themselves.

The cousin was also very quiet. He's too young and strong for me to feel sorry for him. He doesn't say what he does but says he's very busy. Mystery lives onto the 2nd generation from uncle no. 1.

Lana's three boxes arrived late last evening. I haven't opened it yet.

I need to go see a gynecologist. What a bummer. The doctor I saw prior to leaving has just received some test results that she doesn't like.

Getting acquainted with the public transportation

I'm very jet-lagged. And am getting re-acquainted with the public transit system. I have to say it is very well run considering this is a city of 12 million people. Went for a visit to my medicine woman. Who has been through a very hard time lately with her husband losing his mind after a stroke. I am dealing with broken agreements and upsets of many people and am surprised at my ease with lots of people. I haven't yet been upset.

My uncle #2 is openly resentful and purposedly getting drunk every night. Grandma is continuously talking about the old days and how she suffered. But I noticed that she stops speaking when her ferocious daughter-in-law is present. I feel compassion for all but I will at a drop of a hat, take aunt out of this.

In Korea

All went smoothly at the Incheon airport. The customs officer did not say a peep. The luggage arrived as soon as I got there. The driver from the job agency was right there and took me all the way to aunt's. My uncle 2 was very drunk and could not help with a single luggage but a neighbour lady came and helped me with the last big piece of luggage. She is familiar from my last trip. She was asking what do we need men for and I told her I ask the same question.

Yesterday was Buddha's birthday so it was a national holiday. I had a leisurely day off since I could not go to the ministry of justice to start my residency application. I slept for five hours then took 2 Tylenol and slept all night till almost 6 a.m. I hope this puts an end to my jet-lag.

Took some pictures of the bathroom and kitchen - believe me, this is a total miracle.

San Francisco

The conference was a huge success. I always wondered about how some of us looked really amateurish and still can be public about the promises and intentions. It was all designed that way. The fearless leader says, since nobody really knows how to transform the world in such a way that it will be the one that works for everyone with no one and nothing left out, we need to take a chance, it may be the airhead, or the fool or the logical one but who knows really the one that will provide the tipping point?

So I am peaceful in my decisions and possible mistakes. Another set of good byes with lots of hugs and encouragements was really good medicine.

Totally cool.

Thursday: Jung Nam and I went into town and had the most delicious meal.
Friday: Met with the lady responsible for making the Forum happen in Korea. Made the poster in 5 minutes. The most wonderful play about a Norwegian mother and daughter was a true gem.
Saturday: Delivered the poster presentation and went for a 5 minute visit to Half-Moon bay beach with Jorge, Mark and Gabe.
Sunday: Presentations were fabulous. I wish I could be in all of them.

Going away party and Mother's day

So far, I'm able to handle goodbyes without losing too much salt water. My going away party was a great success with people dropping in at all times. I feel so lucky to have such loving friends. Karaoke was a great fun and I think I have 2 more people hooked on it.

Cards with touching messages and small gifts (out of the consideration for my luggage weight) kept arriving too.

I keep focusing on what needs to be done today and it seems to be working. If I think about all the years before and since coming to Canada and think about what's in store for me in the next few weeks, I could go completely crazy. So I decided to do it in bite size only.

Mother's day was quiet. Mom told me that it's mother's day everyday. Went out to dinner with some close friends. It was at this lovely and quiet place that we all like.

I'll miss many people, things and places. Sniff.

Christmas in May

I had the most wonderful afternoon going through make up bin and selecting most delectable smell, shades and shapes of fabulous products for myself and mom.

I think I don't need to go shopping for cosmetics for 5 years. I am so not the same person I was last year. My community is showing up for me as a total support and love.

My coach acknowledged me in that how my being the straight force to deal with in the soft Doe voices that compells people to be great around me. I'm so spoiled and overjoyed.

More dream

I had an awful dream. I moved into a new place. It was very shoddy. I could see gaps between the bricks and can see through and wondered how it must be in the winter time.

Also mom was cursing because there were long (about 3/4 of an inch) white warms all over the floor and she was saying that they moved from the previous place and cannot tell where they originate from. She scooped them and put them away in the manhole outside. I was wondering out loud if they will find their way back through the pipes up to the sink. What an annoying dream!

Dream

I dreamt this morning of an adventure. I was in company of two other women and we were going for tour. We slightly missed the boat so we had to be on a sled and launched into the air and then land on the big boat that we missed. The boat arrived on a shore and we were at this amazing restaurant. The menu was kind of a mixture - Ribs and Chocolate cake for dessert. But what an amazing floor to ceiling stained glass structure!

I was admiring the stained glass and not quite finishing the rich lunch and dessert. I was glad that I took the risk of launching on to a boat. Unusual, but hey that's life.

More on visa

I just learned that there's a way to work without visa legally in Korea. I learned it from the lady from the agency that I'm dealing with and I confirmed with a lady at the Ministry of Justice in Korea. I am completely amazed. I don't need to do anything but show up with some paper work and about $70 and in 10 days I'm able to work. The ticket is taken care of by the agency so my last trip to SF will be takend care of. So I will go to San Francisco on the 17th and continue on to Korea from there. Miraculous!

Mom's recent dream about her Dad also seems to indicate that this is the right thing to do. More confirmation is always reassuring.

Yesterday I spent a day with 4 ladies from a previous seminar at a country house. It was fun to hang out share the ups and downs. One of the lady calls me that I'm like a WD-40 for relationships. I seem to smooth out the edges between people she says. Food was delightful and the walk nice when the sun peep through in the afternoon.

As my agreement to be a coach comes to end, there was a conference call to acknowledge the coaches. I was so happy to find that my coachees all completed the courses and most of them completed the coursework. I never thought some of them would make it. Miraculous!

Pictures: 1) Me and Gretchen 2) Eva, Gretchen, Ginette and Janice 3) Gretchen, Eva and Ginette pointing at the bread that looks like buns.

Becoming emotional

As the time for the departure approaches, both Mom and I started to reminisce about the good old and not so good old days. In some ways, I feel as though I'm going back to revisit some dark memory lanes of night-mares. However, I tend to forget that I'm not the same person and Korea is not the same country from that memory. I know that I may not have enough courage to do something like this if I settled into a comfortable place. So I can understand the adamant refusal on my part to look for something here.

My friend's accident reminds me also how important for Mom it is to live in a safer environment among more enjoyable companies for her older days.

I will send off all documents tomorrow. I'm signing the deal and not turning back.

LODI (Long Over Due Item) - Done!

Just filed my income tax and mom's. I feel so light. Each year I dread it so much. This time it took me 2 hours - that is including losing all my data and re-keying it all over again.

I had another interview with Canadian Language Institute. They are more interesting of course, I'll be working with fellow diverse individuals from Canada. But now that I have something in the works already, I did not feel extremely needy and that made me feel good too.

Today there was an incident where 32 (or more) kids were shot to death in Virginia Technology University. It is unthinkable why shooting would happen in schools so often.

Paperwork 2

I have been working to get the documents - 12 of them. I was super annoyed that I needed to go to the consulate 3 times to get my degree notarized and confirmed. In their web site, it just says get the degree notarized at the consulate. It doesn't say that I need to copy, get it notarized and bring a transcript to get it confirmed there. I got off it. I'm not working and I have time to do it so why get angry and annoyed?

I called my half sister for the first time since my Dad passed in August 1999. I needed the "Original Address" and I did not remember it and my mom did not either. I knew that she would know it. Mom fished out a phone number from a very old address book. I called and there was no answer and the answering machine did not come on. 3 hours later, I get a call and it was her voice. It turned out during the past 8 years, her mother passed away and so has 2nd sister's husband and 2nd brothers wife also passed away. I got the original address and got something more, a possibility to be able to connect to her. Mom was also considering visiting her in Vancouver. My life is almost coming to a full circle.

Paperwork

I got an offer in a record time. This reminds of me of the time I got hired at Cognicase. I went in shook hands, handed over my CV, had a chat for 10 minutes and signed the contract all in one sitting. Then again this was true as for my last job. I called on Monday, went in for the interview on Wednesday handed over my CV and started working the Monday after.

This time, I sent out my CV on Good Friday evening to an agency, I got a call at 10 p.m. from the agency on Easter Sunday evening and got a contract by Tuesday a.m. The employer did not even bother to interview me but my co-teacher was eager to call me and let me know of all the wonderful things awaiting me. She was very reassuring and seemed relieved that I understand Korean.

Tips for those who are renewing their passport - go to Service Canada website and fill out the application on-line as much as possible. This short-cuts 2 hours waiting at the passport office. Mom and I lined up downstairs yes, but as we got to the reception desk and got grudgingly ready to wait for the next 2 hours sitting, she said "You're next! because you filled out your applications on-line". Hooray - Viva Internet!

Another tip, if you ever need a security clearance, you need to go to International Fingerprinting Services Canada (at Complexe Guy-Favreau) and pay 40 dollars. Prince Edward Island Police (why them?- I don't know) will do the investigation and send you a certificate.

Wirlwind of thoughts

As I am getting some more nibbles, I'm feeling a bit more confident. I got all the papers ready to renew passports but I forgot to ask mom to sign. This will cause one more day of delay. I may have to just apply for mother's only and renew when I get to Korea.

There are some public school positions - that sounds nice. Also this Canadian school - nicer except for the fact that I'll have to work till late in the evening.

My aunt says I have nothing to worry about - that God will provide the best for me.
I learnt that lesson when I walked across northern Spain but I keep forgetting.

My note from the universe told me to "buy the shoes" - which I did yesterday. I had to laugh out loud.

http://www.tut.com/mmm.shtml

31st Anniversary

Today is the 31st anniversary of my family arriving in Canada. Mom and I celebrated in China town and I bought - yes, a new pair of sandals to commemorate. It feels just like yesterday that we arrived at the Dorval airport. Interestingly, today we are making passport pictures to get ready for the trip back home.

I had a nibble - an agency from Korea called me last night and I am interested in the position she was suggesting. As I am waiting for the confirmation call, my monkey mind is running 100 miles an hour. There are all these financial matters I need to settle before I go. Plus making sure mom is OK, plus getting ready for taking care of aunt's affairs are totally taking up my brain space. One good news is that I can get the type of Visa in Korea that will allow me to work and live there for 2 years at a time just like a native. Which means that my visa status is not linked to an employer. I wanted to find out right away but all government offices were closed today because it is the Easter Monday.

The trip to San Franciso was a memorable one as well. I ran into another participant from New York at the SF airport and we went into town for some fabulous seafood and window shopping. The weather was unbelievably beautiful and the view of the harbor made us feel like we were in a movie. Tarantino's is the name of the fabulous seafood restaurant.

During the course, one other Korean lady publicly gave up making Japan/Japanese wrong. Her wailing woke me up to what we're up to creating in the world. Yes - some of us are immature, unreliable, and the job in front of us is immense. But I don't know of any other bunch of human beings engaged in creating and committing to the impossible promise for all humankind. I'm humbled, privileged and overwhelmed.

Listening to Bill Clinton on Tedtalks, made me want to find out about this man Dr. Paul Farmer, who could cure the world. I am after all, a student and a teacher who has learnt to communicate not just problems but solutions.

March to remember

March started out fine - with mom's birthday celebration. On March 10th however, as I was taking the first day of TESL course and looking forward to my birthday celebration, I got a message that my dear friend fell and broke her hip - but she has my cake and should come and get it. Frantically I found the hospital where she ended up and cancelled my party. I found her screaming every 3 minutes with excruciating pain. It was just terrible. By the 11th, I got the news that her surgery went well and found her sitting up.

On the 20th of March, as I wasn't dealing with enough stuff in my head, my mom was having some suspicious symptoms - she felt tightness of chest and her left arm was feeling numb. So off to the emergency. She came back home the next morning with some pills. It was some minor heart condition and she just needs some pills, but nothing to worry about. I felt completely wiped and exhausted.

Thank Goodness March is over! My friend is back at home - and mom is stronger than ever.

Some pictures - flowers, cake and eggs - that survived Susan's fall.

Presenting Climate Change to 160 7th graders

With excitement Pamela and I had the opportunity to present Results action to 160 7th graders this morning. It was chaotic, wonderful and learned a lot.

They were unruly and took a lot to get them engaged in the conversation. They did squirm quite a bit in the chairs for the presentation that lasted an hour and half. We ended up with many letters - I wonder how many can be sent.

Breakfast meeting

I was reunited with Gretchen, Eva and Ginette. It was fantastic to be with those ladies one more time. Eva got teary almost every 5 minutes. She's going through tough time because of Interferon treatment for her Hepatitis C.

Robin's recital was not bad. Here's a picture of triplet of hedgehogs - size of chestnuts.

Sequal to the amazing story - from May 2006

I found out that this Rosary I got from Bermuda was returned to its rightful owner - my aunt. My grand-mother took it from her when I sent it and she said she'll take it to her grave.

It turns out that my aunt dreamt of this rosary 12-13 years ago. It had my 2 big uncles with big smiles with a big envelop of important papers. She also saw her bath tub full of water - over flowing with water from the faucet.

Miraculously, the water happened in 2005 and the big envelop is in the midst of happening.

She also told me about another dream where the Pope Jean-Paul 2 gave her the communion when she did not have a TV to watch the mass she so wanted to see. I'm so privilleged to be part of her amazing stories.

Productive day

I had one of the most productive days in weeks. I went to the post office to send off a small parcel, went to the bank to pay the city tax, got the water filter, got my bag fixed up, went to the exercise class. I even bought some tops, in the anticipation of the very hot and muggy summer in Korea.

The new shipment arrived for the Isagenix. I am excited to try it out for the next 30 days. I heard that my big uncle pulled one of his con jobs again. I felt so furious. I also heard that his wife gave my aunt the "permission" to attend her mother's funeral - who she's been taking care of the last 25 years. That crazy woman had the gall to command my aunt to ask for an electric wheel chair from a city government so that she can attend the funeral in it. Of course all this was going on in front of my grandmother who is alive. She'd be so flabbergasted if she heard what she was saying - it is a good thing that my grandma's hearing is so bad sometimes. Auntie shall be independent and free from those monsters once and for all. It is the time to clean up her environment.

The year of the Golden Pig

Tomorrow marks the beginning of the year of the golden pig. It's supposed to provide everyone their share of prosperity beyond expectation. I expect ease, abundance of love, joy and prosperity. I had the easiest time losing 7 pounds and have more energy than ever before. In my coaching experience for the Partnership course, people sent acknowledgement and love beyond expectations. I'm so fortunate because of my community and the kind of conversations that are available to me.

The 4 women from all corners of the continent are in communication are looking at producing the list of 20 things we expect from the universe as we expect water to come out of our faucet when we turn the knob. The Secret is now so public - hitting the Oprah twice in 2 weeks. It is awesome.

Glorious

This is the title of the comedy I went to see with my friend yesterday evening. It was hilarious. This is the true story of a woman determined to sing but could not sing a note. Her life truly reflects the power of the Law of Attraction. She wanted to sing so badly she attracted money from the universe to be able to do it. She recorded and performed and gave much needed laughter to all. Florence Foster Jenkins is a hero in my book.

http://www.counterpoint-music.com/specialties/ffj.html

Day 4 - lost 5 pounds and 7 inches

I don't know how one can lose 5 Lbs and 7 inches but that is what happened. I am amazed that I'm not hungry, tired, cranky, nervous, weak nor anxious.

I went to the presentation on how BRAC's program in reaching the ultra poor is working out. It was interesting how that the last 10-15% of the poorest stay poor has to do with psychological limits. How they don't see how their future can be better.

I feel sad for them and glad that there are people who devised plans and designing what it'll take to get them out of absolute poverty. They are moving into Africa - Tanzania and Uganda. It is basically all doing what Results advocated for many years. Health services, guidance, training, support and follow up. It seems so simple. It was to be tried on 5000 people but it expanded to 100,000 people. From 2 districts to 16 districts. www.bracresearch.org is where 15 plus papers can be found.

New recipe

Mom and I both lost 3 pounds each. I feel lighter already and glad I started on the program. Mom also feels good and doesn't seem weak or discouraged. I can't wait till I measure on Day 3.

I got this new recipe from the Mexican place and wanted to try out. It was Chipotle and Sour cream with Chicken. I marinaded boneless and skinless chicken in sesame oil, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce and tiny bit of mirin (Japanese rice vinegar). After about 1/2 hour, I sauteed in Canolo oil and when they look cooked, I poured the blended sour cream (250 ml) and Chipotle (3 pieces). It was simply delicious. My friend had a very healthy second helping.

I also made sauteed broccoli with garlic in Canola oil and soy sauce, making sure they stayed crunchy.

My friend did the dishes. It was a good meal and great company.

Plan A

I'm sticking to Plan A -- Going to Korea in June. In the meantime, I noticed that I gained 4 pounds since November and Mom is turning in to an apple shape. So I started looking for some ways to affect it.

So today is Isagenix day 1. I was skeptical cos I remembered that I could not stand swallowing the shakes made by the Herbalife. I was happy to find out that I liked the shakes Isagenix had.

I am hoping for fabulous results for me and mom.

Plan B and Plan A

I had a wonderful new year's eve - delayed Christmas dinner plus the all night karaoke evening. My new friend showed up there a couple of minutes before midnight and was the first to wish me the Happy New Year. He's awful charming and can't seem to get enough of him.

I registered for the Teaching English as a Second Language course in March. So far this was a Plan A but not it is looking more like Plan B. New Plan A is that my former boss may find me something where she's moving onto.

My conversation with my coaches are pointing me to the "Butterfly" effect. That a butterfly flutters its wings and causes a typhoon half-way around the world. And they urge me to take the responsibility.

My former colleague who I had lunch with is asking me how I am always so happy. This is when I realized that "wow the Wisdom course really is working".