Everyone always asks me, "What made you what to go to China?" And I always answer that I had a friend that did the same program and she talked me into it. (sorry Boom-Boom). And when else can you take a year off from your life? Its truly a once in a life-time opportunity.
But the truth is I needed a change, I felt like I was in a dead end job, spending more than I was making each month, barley speaking to my roommates, and burnt out at church. I spent four years working towards an economics degree because it came easy to me and then 3 years learning that numbers on a computer screen make me crazy! I won't to do something I have a passion for, and I am hoping that teaching will be my passion.
My life needs a complex overhaul in order for me to make a change. I got so comfortable in the dual work that I was afraid to go into the unknown. I remember all my dreams in college and my fearlessness, it scares me that my ambition is fading. My life needs adventure and challenges. I felt that is what a year in China will bring, something new everyday. Ashlee says its like one big game of charades, that the people are surprisingly willing to play.
My fears are that I will not be good at teaching and my students will eat me alive. What if none of the teachers there what to be my friend and i spend the year in silence. What if I am overwhelmingly homesick and I cry myself to sleep every night on the phone with Peach. What if go through withdraw from my mac and cheese addiction. And what if being aware from my family and church will allow me to loose my faith.
After an amazing weekend of dedicating my life, God has wiped away my fears about my faith. I am excited and anxious to see what plans he has for me. I feel renewed that I am forced to start a new life in China with my new found peace and confidence.... Hopefully all goes well.
But the truth is I needed a change, I felt like I was in a dead end job, spending more than I was making each month, barley speaking to my roommates, and burnt out at church. I spent four years working towards an economics degree because it came easy to me and then 3 years learning that numbers on a computer screen make me crazy! I won't to do something I have a passion for, and I am hoping that teaching will be my passion.
My life needs a complex overhaul in order for me to make a change. I got so comfortable in the dual work that I was afraid to go into the unknown. I remember all my dreams in college and my fearlessness, it scares me that my ambition is fading. My life needs adventure and challenges. I felt that is what a year in China will bring, something new everyday. Ashlee says its like one big game of charades, that the people are surprisingly willing to play.
My fears are that I will not be good at teaching and my students will eat me alive. What if none of the teachers there what to be my friend and i spend the year in silence. What if I am overwhelmingly homesick and I cry myself to sleep every night on the phone with Peach. What if go through withdraw from my mac and cheese addiction. And what if being aware from my family and church will allow me to loose my faith.
After an amazing weekend of dedicating my life, God has wiped away my fears about my faith. I am excited and anxious to see what plans he has for me. I feel renewed that I am forced to start a new life in China with my new found peace and confidence.... Hopefully all goes well.
I love the Laughing Traveler already! I am subscribing! I love you. Can't wait to be a part of your new adventure!!
ReplyDeleteWe are all so proud and excited for you! I know you will have an incredible time and touch (and be touched by) those you meet just like you have touched everyone who knows you here. (And, yes, there will be crying, but also laughter and joy and new experiences...)
ReplyDeleteGREAT first entry! I'll be reading!
ReplyDeleteI think it's an exciting adventure for you and I know you'll have a wonderful time. Sure you'll have to adjust to a whole new world; kinda like those first few weeks as a Freshman in college. But look how that turned out. I look forward to following your adventures. I'm proud of you for having the courage to take such a bold step. We're really going to miss you while you're away. Praying for much more laughter than crying!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you will be fine! There will be nights that you cry on the phone to Peach, and days when you miss mac and cheese and just want to go home. I promise in the long run...it's totally worth it! There will also be nights that you laugh until you cry with your new friends about something your students' said in class, and days after you return home that you really wish you could go out and get some fried dumplings and just want to go back to China! I miss you and am looking forward to your going away party!
ReplyDeleteChristy, my friend, I love you! Rooster Love needs to be international, so spread it! We never know what we will enjoy or be great at until we try. I am so proud of you! And send me you address, O'll try to get you Mac n Cheese!!!! I apoligize I can't get you Peach. But, I will do my best to support you from here!!!
ReplyDelete