Walking the walk

I have been trying to post something for over a month, now. I start typing, then I need to finish later, and then a week goes by. So I have re-written this three times, now. Today, I'm posting it no matter what!

In my last post, I wrote about living in a transient space, a hotel room, for twelve days. I moved into my apartment on February 22, so I've been in here for about 5 weeks, now.

The academy directors had re-wallpapered every room (wallpaper is used on walls and ceilings, whereas Americans would use paint), replaced the appliances, and added just a couple pieces of new furniture.

Since then, I have brought in a Korean-style low table, several accessories for my desk and the shelves in my bedroom, and of course, I've started my apartment garden. The place is starting to feel like home.

 

Quicksilver days

The teaching continues to go well. I'm amazed how fast the day goes with shorter class periods. At first, seven classes seemed daunting, but I've found the days have a certain rhythm. 

I finish the last class at 7:35 and can plan for the next day without much problem. The bus stop is a short walk, and then I'm on way home or to wherever I may need to go after work.

Lifted up

My coworkers the Korean teachers are often shy to speak with me, but they are starting to warm up. Last week we had a staff luncheon at the swanky Lotte Hotel buffet restaurant, and that was a lovely opportunity to chat and laugh together.

I've already formed bonds with many of my students. Korean children are affectionate, rowdy, sweet, generous, hilarious, and often very loud! I love every one of them, and I'm counting on St. John Bosco to help me with some of the more challenging personalities.

I know at a deep interior level that this is the life I was meant to live. I feel clear and poised for the first time perhaps ever in my life, by God's grace and the contemplative, listening stance I'm trying to cultivate. 

Being honest

I do have more stability than when I was rocking the adjunct/part time life with a roommate back in Rochester, but it's not just about that.

It's easier to be in the flow when life becomes more simplified -- and that's exactly what I was hoping for.

Maybe being outside the mainstream of Korean life leads to this feeling of spaciousness. I doubt the average Korean person feels like I do about living in their own country.

No wheels, no problem

But being on foot and riding the bus with no option for driving does affect how one experiences the world and oneself. That contemplative stance is created simply by being less harassed and more attentive to the details.

Yesterday, a new friend and I took an hour bus ride to the seashore for the afternoon. We walked around after enjoying Italian food and good coffee. 

 

It may have been easier in a car, but it would have been much less the cultural experience.

There are also physical benefits, of course, in walking more. I feel healthier and more alert, in general. Not to mention the fact that even with bus fare, I'm saving a ton of money on daily transpo.

Posting this with some photos. More to come!