Good evening...the last three days have gone in a blur. We are curently in a home stay and computer time is limited...with the next blog I will update you on our mountain adventures, naked spas, yes, naked spas, and hanging out with the OB Beer girls...please quell your excitement, updates will be comming soon...
Thoughts for today...you don't have to conquer the world to make a difference...
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Monday, May 28, 2007
May 28th, A peaceful Monday
Week three began perfectly...a beautiful Monday morning here in South Korea. We visited a Kumho Tire manufacturers, then a beautiful lunch, great soup today and company. We concluded our day with a chairlift ride up one of the local mountains. The view was spectacular and there was much time for thought and reflection. We also got in some exercise as we climbed a little higher than the chairs brought us to get to our viewpoint. Good company as always, Mr. Shin brought along his 13 year old daughter for the day. She was shy, very beautiful and helped to create the peaceful atmosphere...he was a good man, quiet, full of smiles and appreciation...
Tomorrow we are back to mountain climbing. The famous mountain here in Gwanju is named Meudung Mountain, and I think we will be summiting the mountain, or at least climbing pretty high. Either way, pictures to follow...and I will learn more about the history...
Today's picture is of the greenhouse that we visited today. There were many rows of green plants and foloaige. It reminded me of flying into Waterloo irport in June, landing on a sea of green squares, each one a different shade and size, all equally important...
I hope the corn is commin up well, and the Spring breezes are blowing on the Island...
This time til next time, LETS GO METS!!!
Tomorrow we are back to mountain climbing. The famous mountain here in Gwanju is named Meudung Mountain, and I think we will be summiting the mountain, or at least climbing pretty high. Either way, pictures to follow...and I will learn more about the history...
Today's picture is of the greenhouse that we visited today. There were many rows of green plants and foloaige. It reminded me of flying into Waterloo irport in June, landing on a sea of green squares, each one a different shade and size, all equally important...
I hope the corn is commin up well, and the Spring breezes are blowing on the Island...
This time til next time, LETS GO METS!!!
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Weekend Revisited...
What a weekend. I had to say goodbye to my host family. The father and I had much bonding time this weekend. Amazing how close you can get to someone in three days without even speaking one another's language. I was able to courral a translator several times so I could tell him the many things I had wanted to say but hadn't had the chance...in the end hugs and smiles, laughs and more hugs held us together tighter than any words...a man that I will never forget...
This weekend was a big convention of District 3710, and we were the feature act on stage. It was very nice to revisit with many of the members of rotary that we had met over the past two weeks. At this point we are embracing and formality takes a back seat, which I tend to like anyway...I mean, is there a better way to show someone how much you miss them other than giving a hug, handshakes just don't cut it at that point. The conference went well and we had some dinner afterwards where I was able to spend some more time with Mr. Lee (host dad)
But he left in a blur, I cried tears of saddness on the inside, my heart wanting just one more minute of his time, a last breath to tell him what I had not said, just one more hug of appreciation for the laundry list of hospitatliy that he and his wife and family provided me for three days...hope and faith will have to do for now as we part ways, I know he will forever impact my life...
Finally, on Friday night, driving through the city of lights as the call Gwanju, there were many thoughts as we passed through the halfway point of our journey...as I shook Chong Bo's (translator) hand I realized that we only have two more weeks left in this beautiful country. As is dissappeared into one of the few shadows of the city I realized that we only have two weeks left together with these people...I promised to myself this day that I would not waste another minute of the next two weeks, I will not cheat myself, and more importantly the people who helped me to this point by taking a day off, or not celebratine the moments as we have the past two weeks...
As my words fail to capture my thoughts, I guess my message is that I hope you can use all of your minutes, fill them with joy and love and peace, so that you don't cheat yourself and those around you...love never stops, peace is always attainable, and you will have friends aroun every corner...
be well and safe...
This weekend was a big convention of District 3710, and we were the feature act on stage. It was very nice to revisit with many of the members of rotary that we had met over the past two weeks. At this point we are embracing and formality takes a back seat, which I tend to like anyway...I mean, is there a better way to show someone how much you miss them other than giving a hug, handshakes just don't cut it at that point. The conference went well and we had some dinner afterwards where I was able to spend some more time with Mr. Lee (host dad)
But he left in a blur, I cried tears of saddness on the inside, my heart wanting just one more minute of his time, a last breath to tell him what I had not said, just one more hug of appreciation for the laundry list of hospitatliy that he and his wife and family provided me for three days...hope and faith will have to do for now as we part ways, I know he will forever impact my life...
Finally, on Friday night, driving through the city of lights as the call Gwanju, there were many thoughts as we passed through the halfway point of our journey...as I shook Chong Bo's (translator) hand I realized that we only have two more weeks left in this beautiful country. As is dissappeared into one of the few shadows of the city I realized that we only have two weeks left together with these people...I promised to myself this day that I would not waste another minute of the next two weeks, I will not cheat myself, and more importantly the people who helped me to this point by taking a day off, or not celebratine the moments as we have the past two weeks...
As my words fail to capture my thoughts, I guess my message is that I hope you can use all of your minutes, fill them with joy and love and peace, so that you don't cheat yourself and those around you...love never stops, peace is always attainable, and you will have friends aroun every corner...
be well and safe...
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Home Stay Three
I a mcurrently with my third family. I met the father las tnight, Mr. Lee. They have a beautiful apartment here in a town just outside of Gwanju. They have three beautiful young boys, 13, 9, and 7. As I arrived eysterday, Mr. Lee took me to his Golf shop, which he owns and runs. He also owns a shop in Seoul. He gave me a tour of the whole house yesterday, first my bedroom, his many plants, even the closets where he showed me his old army and volunteer figherfighter uniform. it was very cute. Then we looked at pictures for some time. In Korea, all young men must serve in the army for two years...I think this is a great idea as it gives all of them men a common experience from which to grow and learn...
The last few days ahve been exciting. The current picture is that of myself and the KIA Tigers mascot, as wer were able to see a baseball game. Very exciting and full of energy, you would have thought we were at a playoff game!!
We visited several temples over the last two days at it was Buddha's Birthday...a national holiday here we paid many respects to Buddha and Buddhism...
Last nights dinner was the highlight, as we ate chicken soup near a lake which reflected the massive mountains in the backround which were streaming with fod and clouds...almost indescribable in words...
More to come tonight, as we are heading out for the day...thanks again for reading, stay healthy, be healthy, no worries...
The last few days ahve been exciting. The current picture is that of myself and the KIA Tigers mascot, as wer were able to see a baseball game. Very exciting and full of energy, you would have thought we were at a playoff game!!
We visited several temples over the last two days at it was Buddha's Birthday...a national holiday here we paid many respects to Buddha and Buddhism...
Last nights dinner was the highlight, as we ate chicken soup near a lake which reflected the massive mountains in the backround which were streaming with fod and clouds...almost indescribable in words...
More to come tonight, as we are heading out for the day...thanks again for reading, stay healthy, be healthy, no worries...
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Updates, Updates, Updates
Kevin and I went to explore the city last night, thus the reason for the delays in updation of the Blog. We ended up in a Korean coffehouse/bar where Kevin was able to get his hands on a guitar and played several songs until the mamager came up to us with his guitar and started jamming out with us. A truly memorable moment...
Monday morning began with a visit to KBS, a major radio/television broadcaster here in Gwanju. We were able to sit in the chairs of the newscasting stage and I gt to the the lead anchor for several minutes, it was quite the experience and fun too..."I'm Ron Burgundy, and you stay classy South Korea."
The afternoon provided yet even more breathtaking views of the mountains and the production of green tea leaves. The cliffs of the mountains were lined with row after row of green tea bushes. They reminded me much of the corn and soybean rows in Iowa, except they were built into the mountains!
Tuesday morning began with a temple visit. The temples are always beautiful, filled with detailed artwork on the buildings, many statues that each represent an area of life, and they are peacefully quiet yet full of life and spirit. Buddhism is a wonderful religion and path to truth.
There was a group of elementary school students who, after being prompted by one of our hosts for the day, began easking Keving for autographs. 100's of children swarmed Kevin, who is 6' 5" all screaming out the words, "Sigh, Sign!!" They thought he was a movie star and he might as well have been Tom Cruise with the attention that he got, it was yet another funny moment.
Finally yesterday, we visited a re treading plant where they re tread truck tires which helps with the environment and recycling. We then moved over to the Kia production plant where we saw a great presentation about Kia and how they are moving into the future. They are huge producers here in the East and are spreading to become a world wide car manufacturer. The plant and car production line was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. To be able to see, start to finish, the production of a car with all of the automation and fine details was a sight to be seen. There were huge machines providimg much automation with classical music playing in the backround...it was peaceful actually, like dancing. We didn't see a human putting anything onto or into the car until the car was 3/4 of the way complete. I wish the students could have seen this autimation, it was really neat to say the least.
Concluding, what seems to hit me more than our visits each day as memorable, are the people we get to meet daily. Each day a new Rotary Club from the Gwanju area greets us at the hotel with open arms and smiles. The days have been starting with simple hello's and handshakes, proper smiles. As we culminate these days we leave in full embrace, speaking even more of the language that we had known, wishing we only had more time with each group to further our bonds of peace, unity and understanding...we fight the tears with smiles, each day seems as sturggle to let go and start anew, but cherished is the time that we had and will have again soon.
The philosophy here in the East is that each day is special...what are the special moments in your day? I hope you are having many...
be safe, many hugs...
Monday morning began with a visit to KBS, a major radio/television broadcaster here in Gwanju. We were able to sit in the chairs of the newscasting stage and I gt to the the lead anchor for several minutes, it was quite the experience and fun too..."I'm Ron Burgundy, and you stay classy South Korea."
The afternoon provided yet even more breathtaking views of the mountains and the production of green tea leaves. The cliffs of the mountains were lined with row after row of green tea bushes. They reminded me much of the corn and soybean rows in Iowa, except they were built into the mountains!
Tuesday morning began with a temple visit. The temples are always beautiful, filled with detailed artwork on the buildings, many statues that each represent an area of life, and they are peacefully quiet yet full of life and spirit. Buddhism is a wonderful religion and path to truth.
There was a group of elementary school students who, after being prompted by one of our hosts for the day, began easking Keving for autographs. 100's of children swarmed Kevin, who is 6' 5" all screaming out the words, "Sigh, Sign!!" They thought he was a movie star and he might as well have been Tom Cruise with the attention that he got, it was yet another funny moment.
Finally yesterday, we visited a re treading plant where they re tread truck tires which helps with the environment and recycling. We then moved over to the Kia production plant where we saw a great presentation about Kia and how they are moving into the future. They are huge producers here in the East and are spreading to become a world wide car manufacturer. The plant and car production line was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. To be able to see, start to finish, the production of a car with all of the automation and fine details was a sight to be seen. There were huge machines providimg much automation with classical music playing in the backround...it was peaceful actually, like dancing. We didn't see a human putting anything onto or into the car until the car was 3/4 of the way complete. I wish the students could have seen this autimation, it was really neat to say the least.
Concluding, what seems to hit me more than our visits each day as memorable, are the people we get to meet daily. Each day a new Rotary Club from the Gwanju area greets us at the hotel with open arms and smiles. The days have been starting with simple hello's and handshakes, proper smiles. As we culminate these days we leave in full embrace, speaking even more of the language that we had known, wishing we only had more time with each group to further our bonds of peace, unity and understanding...we fight the tears with smiles, each day seems as sturggle to let go and start anew, but cherished is the time that we had and will have again soon.
The philosophy here in the East is that each day is special...what are the special moments in your day? I hope you are having many...
be safe, many hugs...
Sunday, May 20, 2007
May 20th; A quiet day, a balance of energies...
The Korean flag represents many different ideas. If you ahve the time to take a look, the white backround represents peace, the red and blue the yin and yang, opposing forces always in balance, the symbols representing more balance through heaven, earth, fire and water...
We had another great day today. I have accepted the challenge of learning the Korean language. This has been an exciting process thus far as there is much to learn. Today, lesson one, the alphabet and pronunciations of the letters. I have been getting help from our weekend translator, as she is an english teacher here in Korea. I have much repsect for her as she carries herself very well..I hope to be reading signs soon, but I will keep you posted...
Our major visit today was to a bamboo park where there were many shops and a bamboo museum. There are many things you can do with bamboo, from eating the tree to making cups and utencils...bamboo comes full circle in this culture and in many cultures throughout the world. I have discovered many ideas for the creation of a garden using bamboo and I look forward to using this truly revolutionary material in the future.
Today's highlight was the relationship that I developed with our guide today. He owns a metals buisness and is the secretary in his rotary club here in Korea...he was helping me to spell words, we asked questions, laughed, we shared touch with one another (explanation below), and there were many special moments throughout the day...
(Korean people have a good sence of space and are comfortalble with one another's presence. It is not uncommon to see men putting their hands around one another shoulders, placing a hand on a leg during eating, even holding hands...I find this sence of touch to be important, especially in our setting where language can pose a barrior, but touch can be a relative sign of peace and understanding...)
Week one had come to an end, tomorrow marks the longest I have ever been out of the country...thank you again for your prayers, your thoughts, your comments...I apreciate your time...
Be safe, many hugs...
We had another great day today. I have accepted the challenge of learning the Korean language. This has been an exciting process thus far as there is much to learn. Today, lesson one, the alphabet and pronunciations of the letters. I have been getting help from our weekend translator, as she is an english teacher here in Korea. I have much repsect for her as she carries herself very well..I hope to be reading signs soon, but I will keep you posted...
Our major visit today was to a bamboo park where there were many shops and a bamboo museum. There are many things you can do with bamboo, from eating the tree to making cups and utencils...bamboo comes full circle in this culture and in many cultures throughout the world. I have discovered many ideas for the creation of a garden using bamboo and I look forward to using this truly revolutionary material in the future.
Today's highlight was the relationship that I developed with our guide today. He owns a metals buisness and is the secretary in his rotary club here in Korea...he was helping me to spell words, we asked questions, laughed, we shared touch with one another (explanation below), and there were many special moments throughout the day...
(Korean people have a good sence of space and are comfortalble with one another's presence. It is not uncommon to see men putting their hands around one another shoulders, placing a hand on a leg during eating, even holding hands...I find this sence of touch to be important, especially in our setting where language can pose a barrior, but touch can be a relative sign of peace and understanding...)
Week one had come to an end, tomorrow marks the longest I have ever been out of the country...thank you again for your prayers, your thoughts, your comments...I apreciate your time...
Be safe, many hugs...
May 19th, Final Thoughts
On our way home yesterday we stopped at a man made damb to take a break...as we were entering the van to leave a woman approached our vehicle. She asked if we would like to join their tour group in having some dinner. As we approached they were setting up plates, scooping food onto dishes, preparing drinks and cutting watermelon. A truly amazing moment as cultures collided, but more inportanly a realization that we can all sit around a table and enjoy one's company...peace and unity are possbile in time, in trust, in love and caring and understanding...these arne't taboo words, they are the truth which can be had by anyone...which can be taught through actions...
As we mold our lumps of clay, how are we doing so? How are we learning from what we produce? What is our finished product of the day, and how can we make it better tomorrow? Time will keep moving and the time is now to start answering these questions as the wheel of time does not stop for anyone, we can only get better at molding our lives, those around us, and if you are fortunate enough to do so, those who you don't know...
As we mold our lumps of clay, how are we doing so? How are we learning from what we produce? What is our finished product of the day, and how can we make it better tomorrow? Time will keep moving and the time is now to start answering these questions as the wheel of time does not stop for anyone, we can only get better at molding our lives, those around us, and if you are fortunate enough to do so, those who you don't know...
Saturday, May 19, 2007
May 19th, Part Dul
The day began with a long drive through the countryside of South Korea. We were heading to a towwn/city called Gangjin. As we moved through the valleys I noticed that the rice patties were beginning to come up. They reminded me of the corn beginning to grow in Iowa...yet another similarity between these two great places...
Our first destination was a poets house who is vary famous here in South Korea. He wrote many books, 500 plus in total and if very comparable to Benjamin Franklin in the states...we were given as gifts his poem wich had been painted onto naturally dies cotton. I am working on the translation as we speak...
After another lunch fit for royalty, we visited an open air market in the city. There were many vegetables and fruits for sale, as well as life fresh seafood. We were interview by a local TV station and they are going to put us on the air later this week. I found this market to be very similar to an open air market that we visit in Rosarito, Mexico. Many smiling faces, people bartering for goods and then...karaoke.
There was a stage set up for a performer who was singing as we arrived. As we approached the stage there were many people dancing and singing. We were invited to dance as once again, here in Korea, we stick out pretty well. Before we knew it, we were dancing with the cutest older Korean people...they were full of energy and spirit, music and dance brought us together and the moments were a great recharge of my spirits...
After performing on stage and recieving much applause, we were given handkerchiefs by the mayor of the town and some pieces of meat which we were later able to cook and eat for dinner...chalk this one up as another unforgettable moment...
Finally, we visited another rotarian in the area. This area is famous in South Korea for its pottery and the artists who create them. Laura and I had the opportunity to work our own pieces of clay, as Demi Moore did in the moview Ghost..."Perhaps we can reinact the scence from Ghost", was Kevin's quote of the day...I enjoyed much working with the clay and look to pick this up as a hobby in the future...there is much freedom and learning and truth in molding the clay...this was the highlight of the day for me...
Prior to dinner we visited a tradition South Korean wedding shop, and the girls were fitted for dresses and are going to purchase them. They are going to look very beautiful...
As for dinner, another night of free spirits, singing, laughing, and unity of those around a table...These are memories and times that will live in me for many days...please enjoy your moments as sometimes memories are all that we have...
be safe, no worries...miss you much...
Our first destination was a poets house who is vary famous here in South Korea. He wrote many books, 500 plus in total and if very comparable to Benjamin Franklin in the states...we were given as gifts his poem wich had been painted onto naturally dies cotton. I am working on the translation as we speak...
After another lunch fit for royalty, we visited an open air market in the city. There were many vegetables and fruits for sale, as well as life fresh seafood. We were interview by a local TV station and they are going to put us on the air later this week. I found this market to be very similar to an open air market that we visit in Rosarito, Mexico. Many smiling faces, people bartering for goods and then...karaoke.
There was a stage set up for a performer who was singing as we arrived. As we approached the stage there were many people dancing and singing. We were invited to dance as once again, here in Korea, we stick out pretty well. Before we knew it, we were dancing with the cutest older Korean people...they were full of energy and spirit, music and dance brought us together and the moments were a great recharge of my spirits...
After performing on stage and recieving much applause, we were given handkerchiefs by the mayor of the town and some pieces of meat which we were later able to cook and eat for dinner...chalk this one up as another unforgettable moment...
Finally, we visited another rotarian in the area. This area is famous in South Korea for its pottery and the artists who create them. Laura and I had the opportunity to work our own pieces of clay, as Demi Moore did in the moview Ghost..."Perhaps we can reinact the scence from Ghost", was Kevin's quote of the day...I enjoyed much working with the clay and look to pick this up as a hobby in the future...there is much freedom and learning and truth in molding the clay...this was the highlight of the day for me...
Prior to dinner we visited a tradition South Korean wedding shop, and the girls were fitted for dresses and are going to purchase them. They are going to look very beautiful...
As for dinner, another night of free spirits, singing, laughing, and unity of those around a table...These are memories and times that will live in me for many days...please enjoy your moments as sometimes memories are all that we have...
be safe, no worries...miss you much...
May 19th Part One
Let's just say that the highlight of the day WASN"T dancing on stage in front of 150-200 Korean citizens at an outdoor Korean market and karaoke singing the song, "American Pie." Yes, it was an adventurous day...unfortunately, I need to sleep on some ideas...part two tomorrow...
Friday, May 18, 2007
May 18th; a day of rememberance and hope...
Lesson number one today...a cold shower is better than no shower. There must have been something wrong with the water in the building; it was cold, but it was a shower none the less...
We visited many places today...first, a visit to the "E UN HAE School" which is a school for children with special needs here in South Korea...the school name translates to, "all embracing, unconditional love." They are a holy order of sisters who though donations from rotary and the givernment have created this amazing school for these students with special needs. their main mission was to give each student a sence of being beautiful, precious, and important, treating them with dignity and pride. The head sister seemed and looked like the perfect exam of a Mother Teresa type, a beautiful woman who was filled with the spirit...
Today in Korea is May 18th. I can most easily convey this date to you as a comparision to September 11th in the United States. In 1980 in an effort to stop another dictator from comming to power, many students marched for democracy. The result was many killed, beaten, and slian sutdents. Many who died this day twenty seven years ago where college students aging from 19-25. Our reotary club member who guided us through the momument that we visited had been one of the protestors and witnessed the killing of two of his friends. A very somber day, but one of remembrance and hope, one of great honor as we were able to be in the city of Gwanju during this sad, but special day in their history...I hope in the future there can be a monument as beautiful and powerful as the one they have here remembering May 18th...
Concluding for today, we had another amazing day today, different and special from any other day...I look forward to more days like these...both here in Korea, and the remaining days I have here in this life...
be safe, no worries, many hugs...
We visited many places today...first, a visit to the "E UN HAE School" which is a school for children with special needs here in South Korea...the school name translates to, "all embracing, unconditional love." They are a holy order of sisters who though donations from rotary and the givernment have created this amazing school for these students with special needs. their main mission was to give each student a sence of being beautiful, precious, and important, treating them with dignity and pride. The head sister seemed and looked like the perfect exam of a Mother Teresa type, a beautiful woman who was filled with the spirit...
Today in Korea is May 18th. I can most easily convey this date to you as a comparision to September 11th in the United States. In 1980 in an effort to stop another dictator from comming to power, many students marched for democracy. The result was many killed, beaten, and slian sutdents. Many who died this day twenty seven years ago where college students aging from 19-25. Our reotary club member who guided us through the momument that we visited had been one of the protestors and witnessed the killing of two of his friends. A very somber day, but one of remembrance and hope, one of great honor as we were able to be in the city of Gwanju during this sad, but special day in their history...I hope in the future there can be a monument as beautiful and powerful as the one they have here remembering May 18th...
Concluding for today, we had another amazing day today, different and special from any other day...I look forward to more days like these...both here in Korea, and the remaining days I have here in this life...
be safe, no worries, many hugs...
Thursday, May 17, 2007
May 17th, Home Stay with the Lee's
Brushing teeth can be tedious, sometimes borning. Not when you do so with the company of the cutest 4 year old korean girl in the world...lets just say it was a good start to what would be another amazing day.
The Korean hosts have treated us as royalty. Each meal is the equivalent of Filet Minon, with the best service, food and drink that money can buy...the are a truly gracious people, worthy of much praise and kamsahamnida (thankyou).
We traveled through much of the Korean countryside today. There are so many mountains. I am unsure as to whether I was amazed by their height, or because I haven't seen mountains that tall in over two years since I have moved to Iowa...eather way, we rolled through them as though we were in the ocean...
We visited the most famous temple in Southy Korea today. There were many schools who had taken trips to the temple, and the middle schoolers thought us American's were pretty cool. It Provides them an opportunity to speak English, which many of the Korean students do very well...
The highlights of the day would have to include trying rice wine for the first time, sitting to eat a snack of deep friend fish, (what looked to be whole sardines), watching Laura connect with a Korean woman as they danced, sang, and played the drums all while there was, as I can i only explain with these words, Korean techno music playing through this open aired market that we had visited...I have much video of this account...
Music can most definitely connect us as people...what is connecting you to people in your life? Perhaps a better question, what is connecting you to people that you don't know...??? This trip has taught me thus far that life can be an adventure each day, but we have to see that adventure and be open to the possibility, be challeneged by the mystery, love that each day is different and new, and wonderful because we get to live it...how are you living your life today??
Many hugs, be safe, no worries...
The Korean hosts have treated us as royalty. Each meal is the equivalent of Filet Minon, with the best service, food and drink that money can buy...the are a truly gracious people, worthy of much praise and kamsahamnida (thankyou).
We traveled through much of the Korean countryside today. There are so many mountains. I am unsure as to whether I was amazed by their height, or because I haven't seen mountains that tall in over two years since I have moved to Iowa...eather way, we rolled through them as though we were in the ocean...
We visited the most famous temple in Southy Korea today. There were many schools who had taken trips to the temple, and the middle schoolers thought us American's were pretty cool. It Provides them an opportunity to speak English, which many of the Korean students do very well...
The highlights of the day would have to include trying rice wine for the first time, sitting to eat a snack of deep friend fish, (what looked to be whole sardines), watching Laura connect with a Korean woman as they danced, sang, and played the drums all while there was, as I can i only explain with these words, Korean techno music playing through this open aired market that we had visited...I have much video of this account...
Music can most definitely connect us as people...what is connecting you to people in your life? Perhaps a better question, what is connecting you to people that you don't know...??? This trip has taught me thus far that life can be an adventure each day, but we have to see that adventure and be open to the possibility, be challeneged by the mystery, love that each day is different and new, and wonderful because we get to live it...how are you living your life today??
Many hugs, be safe, no worries...
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
May 16th, Host Family Number 2; 10:16
I will never forget this day. I may live for many years and hope to eventually get to be in heaven. This was one of the most incredible moments in my life. As I have come to know several years later, this was heaven on earth. His Kingdom cam crashing through into my heart. Pictures to follow.
May 16th, Host Family Number 2; 10:16
Moving early as I said fairwell to Rebecca (host family daughter) and headed up to the Bongju mountain for the second day in a row. We went to his temple this morning. As we arrived after a short trip upwards, there was much to be thankful for...
Undescribable here in words, there was a precense and a feeling that brought my heart forward and tears from my soul...the view, the temple, the feeling, peace was in the air...
This was the highlight of the day as there were many visits and many meals. We visited a hospital known for its Cancer research and treament, and what looked to be the most well run organization I have ever seen. Lunch was great, and for the first time on the trip they served some fried food which Kevin and I prompty dug into coaxing the waitress to bring more. There was much singing and drinking and eating...
Dinner was excellent as well and served in a different style and type of food than we had seen in the past few days...
At dinner, I do remember making these comments to our new Korea friends though our translator Chong Bo...
"...we may look different, our cultures are different, we eat differently, but more importantly, we are similar in heart, in mind, and throughout our soul..." I feel there is much truth here, and I am continually challenged I hope to see the truth unvailed...
May 16th, Host Family Number 2; 10:16
Moving early as I said fairwell to Rebecca (host family daughter) and headed up to the Bongju mountain for the second day in a row. We went to his temple this morning. As we arrived after a short trip upwards, there was much to be thankful for...
Undescribable here in words, there was a precense and a feeling that brought my heart forward and tears from my soul...the view, the temple, the feeling, peace was in the air...
This was the highlight of the day as there were many visits and many meals. We visited a hospital known for its Cancer research and treament, and what looked to be the most well run organization I have ever seen. Lunch was great, and for the first time on the trip they served some fried food which Kevin and I prompty dug into coaxing the waitress to bring more. There was much singing and drinking and eating...
Dinner was excellent as well and served in a different style and type of food than we had seen in the past few days...
At dinner, I do remember making these comments to our new Korea friends though our translator Chong Bo...
"...we may look different, our cultures are different, we eat differently, but more importantly, we are similar in heart, in mind, and throughout our soul..." I feel there is much truth here, and I am continually challenged I hope to see the truth unvailed...
May 15th, 2007; 10:00 local time, just outside of Kwanju, 8:00 AM CST
Culture Shock 101. This is the first and only lesson. This will conclude our teaching for the semester, the rest of the class we be conducted in the field. Lesson One…GET OVER IT!!! The sooner you are able to do so the more enjoyable your stay will be.
As the food poured onto the table, there was much to choose from and a balance of foods that I don’t wish I could eat each day. From squid to octopus tentacles, raw fish and plenty of Kimchi, there was more than enough to go around. To be immersed in a culture has been a phenomenal experience. There is much I am learning about myself and the people around me. More importantly learning about another culture that is much different that the life that I have known both in New York and Iowa
I think it comes down to the fact that there are going to be uncomfortable moments in our lives, ones which we wish we could just run away, return home, hop back into our box where we are safe and sound. The reality check comes in knowing that learning takes place outside of your comfort zone, and having a love for learning requires me to not be where I am comfortable, where adventure awaits ever second and mystery is your closet friend. I will continue to do my best in keeping an open mind and heart. Perhaps then we can find what we are looking for…
I think the highlight of the day came at the Kwangju Womens University
May 14th, 10:30 local time, 8:42 CST
The morning running route will consist of a trip down what looks to be a river, which runs through the middle of the city. After about a 15-20 minute out sessions I will turn around and head back towards the hotel. The run will culminate with a “Rocky Balboa” like jog up around 100 stairs to the top of a small ridge, which contains a small house and a beautiful monument, which overlooks the eastern part of Gwanju…
We had some rest time this morning that was highly appreciated by all members of the group. Dr. Olsen, Molly and myself went for a walk prior to breakfast, which was the point where I found my running agenda while we are in Gwanju (pronounced g-won-jew, for all of those who are curious).
After breakfast we had worked our just a few logistics and were picked up by Sang Hyun Choi and another man who would later play a beautiful rendition of a classical South Korean song called arirang (a-rrri-raaaang) and one of the most beautiful performances of Amazing race, all with a Korean type flute made of wood. More to follow on the video tape.
Lunch was held at a traditional Korean restaurant where we sat on small pillows and were treated to a luxurious Korean lunch complete with singing, drum playing, and musical instruments. All participated in the events.
Finally a trip to the Gwanju Folk Museum where we learned about pretty much everything that has to do with the origins and traditional cultures of this magnificent city. The group was getting pretty tired at that point, as the time was nearly 4am where we are from.
The most amazing part of the day came when I had the pleasure of meeting with my first host family. They live in a house just outside of Gwanju. I had a great conversation with Rebecca, one of the daughters of my host mom. She is in agreement with a close personal friend of mine from Iowa that George Clooney is a, “sexy man”. I would have to say that this conversation was very special to me, as today I have made a new friend, and that always makes a day beautiful beyond words…
Sunday, May 13, 2007
May13, Hiddink Hotel, 11:20 local time, 9:28 AM CST.
Happy Mother’s Day Mom. Both of your boys are traveling. We do love you much and hope to hug you soon.
WOW, it was early this morning and packing didn’t finish until around 1:30 when the head hit the pillow. I have tried throughout the day to ignore the feeling that you get when you travel…I forgot something. I haven’t found that something just yet…
The morning had finally arrived, but the idea still hadn’t come over me. We were actually beginning this journey to South Korea. I think I had either been putting off the thought, or hadn’t had time this week to let it sink in. Time is funny that way in that it doesn’t wait for anyone and we were quickly heading to the airport, ready or not.
The bird hit the skies as planned. We had a quick trip from Waterloo to Minnesota. We didn’t have much time as we quickly hopped on a plan to California and the San Francisco airport. Until this point in my life, this was the most I had flown in one day. Every moment from here on out would be a mystery, but it would also be new…
The plane was huge, massive, and the seats were relatively comfortable. They stayed that way for the 12 hour flight. I passed the time reading, talking, sleeping some, writing, eating (the food was great!!), and folding more paper peace cranes. I even made a friend named Christina who lives in Seoul. She had been in the states for three years studying to be a nurse and she was returning to Korea on this flight after visiting some friends. She was really good at origami and made me several new figures in a matter of seconds with much precision. I still have some practicing to get to her level.
When the big plane landed, we became the minority, as there were so many new faces and everything written in a different language. Passing through customs was a breeze. As we quickly came to realize, the South Koreans are quite efficient. Still one more plane to take from Gimpo to Kwanju (where we will be spending most of our time). As we received our bags from the baggage claim, we could see the crowd outside waiting our arrival with a welcome banner that said, “Welcome District 5970.” Quite an honor to be received by the district governor Mr. Heo, and the GSE chair Mr. Choi.
We had arrived. I have lost count of the traveling hours in total. At this point I really don’t care. I am lost in the excitement and potential of this trip. The adventure, experience, growth, mystery, and challenge have filled my mind, my heart, and my soul. I am alive with energy, which probably isn’t the best thing as I try to get to sleep at what feels like 9:42 CST…
I thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers, they are appreciated…I leave tonight with a segment from Phillipians 1:6… “And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished…”
WOW, it was early this morning and packing didn’t finish until around 1:30 when the head hit the pillow. I have tried throughout the day to ignore the feeling that you get when you travel…I forgot something. I haven’t found that something just yet…
The morning had finally arrived, but the idea still hadn’t come over me. We were actually beginning this journey to South Korea. I think I had either been putting off the thought, or hadn’t had time this week to let it sink in. Time is funny that way in that it doesn’t wait for anyone and we were quickly heading to the airport, ready or not.
The bird hit the skies as planned. We had a quick trip from Waterloo to Minnesota. We didn’t have much time as we quickly hopped on a plan to California and the San Francisco airport. Until this point in my life, this was the most I had flown in one day. Every moment from here on out would be a mystery, but it would also be new…
The plane was huge, massive, and the seats were relatively comfortable. They stayed that way for the 12 hour flight. I passed the time reading, talking, sleeping some, writing, eating (the food was great!!), and folding more paper peace cranes. I even made a friend named Christina who lives in Seoul. She had been in the states for three years studying to be a nurse and she was returning to Korea on this flight after visiting some friends. She was really good at origami and made me several new figures in a matter of seconds with much precision. I still have some practicing to get to her level.
When the big plane landed, we became the minority, as there were so many new faces and everything written in a different language. Passing through customs was a breeze. As we quickly came to realize, the South Koreans are quite efficient. Still one more plane to take from Gimpo to Kwanju (where we will be spending most of our time). As we received our bags from the baggage claim, we could see the crowd outside waiting our arrival with a welcome banner that said, “Welcome District 5970.” Quite an honor to be received by the district governor Mr. Heo, and the GSE chair Mr. Choi.
We had arrived. I have lost count of the traveling hours in total. At this point I really don’t care. I am lost in the excitement and potential of this trip. The adventure, experience, growth, mystery, and challenge have filled my mind, my heart, and my soul. I am alive with energy, which probably isn’t the best thing as I try to get to sleep at what feels like 9:42 CST…
I thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers, they are appreciated…I leave tonight with a segment from Phillipians 1:6… “And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished…”
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
3 Days
The bird flies in three days. I am a mix of emotions. Anxiety in trying to make sure that all is planned and ready to go. I am scared to be leaving, excited to be exploring and adventurous...the hours keep ticking by. Time doesn't wait for us and we must understand that. The list of things to do is almost complete and we will be ready to go on Friday afternoon.
All else is well, until we are in the air, there is still much to do...
All else is well, until we are in the air, there is still much to do...
Friday, May 4, 2007
7 Days
The bird flies in seven days. I am home in New York for the weekend as my brother Thomas is graduating from college on Sunday, and is being comissioned as a Third officer on Saturday.
I have purchaces all of the necessary supplies to make the gifts for the families with whom I stay. I am curious as to how they will like the gifts and if they will have any meaning in their life. I feel that they will, as the culture finds gift giving to be uneccessary, but very respectful.
I hope the disctict convention went well today. The vido presentation is almost complete, and needs some more elements. All in all I think it works in getting the point across as to what is Iowa.
That's all from the Empire State, be safe, no worries...
I have purchaces all of the necessary supplies to make the gifts for the families with whom I stay. I am curious as to how they will like the gifts and if they will have any meaning in their life. I feel that they will, as the culture finds gift giving to be uneccessary, but very respectful.
I hope the disctict convention went well today. The vido presentation is almost complete, and needs some more elements. All in all I think it works in getting the point across as to what is Iowa.
That's all from the Empire State, be safe, no worries...
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
11 Days
The bird flies in 11 days. There is much to be accomplished prior to leaving. There are laundry lists for things to do for school before I leave and things that I need to take care of for South Korea before I leave. I am anxious and excited all at once. Time is moving and so must I continue to do as time does not wait for anyone.
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