Last Day at School

Wow! Where did 8 weeks go? An extended time far from home is an interesting "tug of emotions." There was a period, about 10 days after we arrived that we thought, "this will be a long time to be away from home." The initial "missing of family and friends" was difficult, although being with a friend like Beam certainly helped. Then it kind of fades away to be replaced by the realization that time IS passing by, until at the end our emotions of coming home and leaving all that we have here truly is bittersweet.

Friday was our last day at Sadao Kanchai school. We were honored at the morning ceremony and gave a short farewell speech that was interpreted by some younger English learning students. Morning ceremonies get to be routine for the kids, and too often the speakers drone on and on, the interest wanes and kids start talking to each other. Invariably the are usually at least 1o-20 minutes late to their first period class. But while we speaking, the kids were quiet and very attentive. We adapted a song, "Leaving on a Jet Plane" and Susanne and I sang to the kids. This is a singing culture, no matter what your talent level is. It went well and the kids enjoyed it as we struggled to hold our emotions in. We were presented with a gift and the whirlwind of a day began.

Suffice it to say, we were the celebrities of the day, more than we ever could expect. Students wanting pictures with us, autographing shirts, paper (really!) and greeting students at every turn. It was unbelievable! Especially touching were two hand made books from 2 classes we taught. One class actually stayed at least 1 1/2 hours late making final preparations.

Then we also had the teachers. Many, many of them presented us with gifts and let me tell you, that is a humbling experience. This culture honors their guests in ways unlike any country I have been in. Moscow had many moments too, but not like here. We both received a handbag and pants that everyone recognized as from the northern mountain people, and Susanne at least 2 more beautiful handbags/purses. I received several collections of coins, some of them antiques from a teacher who is a collector. And, again especially touching were commemorative bills honoring their King who is highly esteemed by everyone. One lady gave me hers, the only one she had, knowing it was a limited edition. It is rather rare and probably impossible to replace. How can "thank you" really do that sacrifice justice? That is when the depth of their love and appreciation really hits you. All I could do was accept it graciously and thank her over and over.

At the day's end, we were left with our overwhelming emotions and memories. In terms of education, we probably accomplished limited results. But in terms of friendships and good will, the results were striking. I don't want to overstate our impact, and that's not my purpose here. But it is "real and true" and we did hear many times that some of the Muslim teachers were a little skeptical of American Christians in their school, but had their opinion and outlook dramatically changed. The Buddhists and the Muslims knew we were Christians and didn't try to change us, but simply explained patiently their beliefs. They too became dear friends and really, why wouldn't we expect that? That is the kind of respectful people and culture they have here.

So, we fully intend to come back in a few years to visit old friends and perhaps teach the students again. It won't be the same because of the old saying, "You can never go back."

but I expect it will be very good in a different way.

It will be interesting coming home and assimilating all our feelings and the changes into our daily lives again. I do know we both will have to work real hard not to let this experience fade into the "old and routine."

So Monday afternoon we fly to Bangkok. We will see some sights on Tuesday and fly out about 10:30 p.m. About 22 hours later we will be in Chicago and soon back to good old Delavan.