Thursday, December 4, 2008
typed this yesterday actually:L.E.G.O. forever
I was just looking through all the photos and all the memories came pouring back at me. At this time last week we were on the plane travelling back home and we would land in less than an hour’s time. Though it’s been a week already, I still miss everything there and you guys. How time flies, but it’s time to accept reality and adapt back to the lifestyle here.
Initially, I was really uncertain about this trip. I didn’t feel really close to all or any of you. I wondered how I was going to survive those 14 days. Also, I didn’t know if I was able to adapt to the living conditions there. But the 14 days we’ve spent together had been really memorable. It’s amazing how we’ve bonded together and I’ve grown so attached to you all.
The first day there was wasn’t that enjoyable for me because I couldn’t get use to the weather and fell sick at night. I still remember that I cried in my sleeping bag then. But I must really thank you guys for watching out for me the first few days, especially the teachers who tried to make me feel as warm as possible. The days got better and much better as we adapted together and I grew to love the team. I stayed up later and later in the night as the days go by just so that I can spend more time with all of you and admire the night sky.
I believe many of us were expecting worse living conditions then. I’m very thankful that Tian Cao’s family allowed us to stay at their house. The fact that they did not want to accept our money let me realize that the people there value friendships and relationships more than anything else. They showed us so much warmth and hospitality. They were very humble and repeatedly apologized to us for not being able to provide us with better facilities. This is definitely something that is hard to find back here in Singapore. Similarly, the kids showed us their willingness to share. They dared to put so much trust in us as many of them attempted to give us their valued possessions. I was deeply moved by their actions. Although the villagers don’t have much material possessions, certain things like the ‘stick and hole’ game is so simple yet can bring so much joy to them. These made me learn to treasure and be satisfied with the things and relationships I have back at home. It’s simple if we want to lead a happy life. It’s only whether we want to change our attitude towards certain things or not.
The idea of having the life journey thing every night was great. It was the thing that allowed me to know more about everyone and I enjoyed listening to everyone present their story. I was impressed and amazed at how we managed to open up to each other to share the parts and parcel of ourselves. It took guts to do that. I never thought that I would share what I said that night. I’m glad that we are able to listen and appreciate everyone for who they are despite our own problems and differences.
Both Yvonne and I slept in the same room as the teachers for both schools. Some would think that we are suay or sth because of restrictions, but I thought it was ok. Most of the time, we only see the strict side of the teachers when they are deep in their discussions. Staying in the same room as them allowed me to see the funny side of The Big 3. I can’t forget the nights at Tian Cao’s house where they were just like us joking around in the room. (opps xD) They also constantly showed their care and concern for those who are sick.
Getting education there is a rare opportunity for the kids. Most of them walk long distances to school and never ever grumbled about it. The students are also always so attentive and responsive in class. The student’s attitude towards learning is definitely something that will motivate me to work even harder now and not whine about having to go to school. Hmm…shldn’t ‘Liberals’ be spelt as ‘Librals’? haha anyway, thank you Librals for making my time spent in Yunnan so enjoyable! Especially during cooking days. I will miss the times where we chased and caught the chickens together, fed the dogs and rode the horse. These activities made me realize how wild we actually are.
Much thanks to the greedy group :D
We overcame so many difficulties, obstacles and conflicts along the way, and instead, we’ve built so many friendships. To me, this trip was very enriching and memorable and I’ve learnt many lessons which I believe would be of much use. Thank you L.E.G.O. for this wonderful experience!
I miss shivering while brushing our teeth.
I miss our home cooked meals.
I miss plucking corns.
I miss chasing chickens.
I miss Mi Mi, Xiao Huang, Xiao Hu, Xiao Hei and the 2 horses.
I miss the children.
I miss the carefree lifestyle in Yunnan.
I miss watching the stars. (hey I didn't manage to see a shooting star there!)
Labels: yunnan ocip 08
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