Home Stay

In Korea, one should expect the unexpected. I think it should be the unofficial motto around here. I arrived safely in the city they call, "colorful Daegu". I was introduced to teachers, the vice principal and principal. of my school. The introductions were mostly filled with me smiling and nodding. Them talking and smiling back at me. One thing is for sure, the school was very excited to greet me.

Within minutes of my first exchanges, I was informed that all of the teachers would be dining out together, and that I was invited to come along for a meal. Exhausted from my the long bus ride in, this sounded delightful. I quickly accepted the offer, and smiled at the thought of finishing up and being shown to my new apartment. It would be so great to unpack, unwind and settle in to my new digs. Dreams of solitude, rest and comfort were interrupted within the next several minutes. Apparently, my apartment would not be ready for a few days and that as their guest teacher, I would be staying with one of my fellow colleagues and her family. Initially stunned by the news, alone, cranky and tired I practically bursted into tears. Home stay?!!

After re-packing yet another bag and regaining most of my composure, I was on my way. At first I was afraid. My colleague knew little English and I of course knew little Korean! I was to stay with this family for four days until my apartment was ready.

I was greeted my thew two most curious creatures. My colleague's two children, were the cutest darn children I had ever seen. They jumped with excitement upon my arrival, and I quickly decided that this may not be so bad at all.

My home stay showed me one of the true ways of Korean life. I learned many new things about Korean culture and shared some of my own. I was shown how to (properly) use chop sticks by a six year old, privy to authentic Korean cooking three times a day (I'm still not sure how they stay so thin), climbed on, read to and jumped on some more. I was taken on a field trip to Pagyesa Temple and treated to Korean Duck Grill.

Four days later I was the charades champion of Korean-English conversations. Plus, the kids have this great electronic dictionary.

What I can tell you is that Koreans are one of the most generous and kind people I have ever met. As a guest in someones home, you are fed, showered with smiles and affection. They will do anything to ensure your stay is comfortable and acceptable. They are a culture of sharing, giving, and harmony.

I hope that all of us here in this country can take home some of these wonderful cultural values learned in Korea. It amazes me how far love and kindness can really take you.