A different kind of discipline

For those of you keeping up with me, I’m sure by now that you realized I’ve been having a great time and trying to experience as much as I can while I’m in the land of the morning calm. My posts are typically lighthearted and express exactly what I’ve been seeing and doing all around town. This one has been a work in progress for some time now, as it’s a more delicate topic but something I must share as it weighs heavier and heavier as each day passes.


Before I took off on this venture, I knew that I was headed into a Confucius country and was wholeheartedly open to culture learning. Coming from a Western country where physical discipline practices are frowned upon and illegal- it was to be seen how I would handle witnessing the punishment methods in Korea.

For the first few months, I witness physical discipline from teachers ( I told them I refused to use any sort of physical punishment in my classroom) in the form of pinching ear lobes, hitting their palms, putting them on their knees with their arms in the air and maybe a small whack to the back of the head. These practices were used for small offences such as fighting in class, and other misbehaviors, such as the length of students hair. Larger “offences” were treated by having the students engage in extra cleaning duties, homework and playing teacher’s gofers for the day. All in all, what I was seeing was as acceptable as it could be for me. Often, I would leave the teachers lounge if as student was being punished, as this upset me through the core. Despite the discipline being used, here in Korea as a Foreign teacher you do not stand up or say anything, as it is the teacher’s right to physically discipline their students. Heck, parents do it at home as well, my kids show up for school with marks and bruising which are atypical of playground bustle.

With the start of the new semester in March, came a new Physical Education teacher at my school. Within days, I could tell he and I were not going to see eye to eye. He implemented serious practices, including measuring girl’s skirt lengths, hair and just about every disciplinary action required. He soon became in charge of handing out the punishments.

Witnessing this tyrant’s actions against my students has been very emotional for me. It’s been trying to sit down and watch him exercise these severe disciplinary actions against children who are 14 and 15 years old. His behaviors have finally broke me, and this is why I need to rant about it now. His methods are harsh. Last month he punched a student so hard in the face that I saw the bruise welt within seconds, he then kicked the student in the leg. His offence: fighting another boy. I stood up, but was quickly told to sit back down. Two weeks ago he placed a boy in plank position, with his feet up on the window sill for 15 minutes. He then intermittently cracked his backside with a stick. His offence: Chronic tardiness. Girls are whacked across the face for the length of the hair and skirts. I could go on and on, but the thought turns my stomach. I've often sat at my desk and dreamed of cracking him back with his own stick- but I would probably be deported for standing up to a male teacher. .

In my own, classes, when I get close to the students, I see many of them flinch if I come down to their level in a swift movement.  It kills me every time.  It pains me to know what stresses these children go through with school alone, and now have to deal with harsh physical discipline on top of it. Korea is advanced in so many things, but they are still stuck in the 50s when physical discipline was widely accepted. I pray for my students every day that these practices will become illegal soon enough. In the meantime, I can only educate them to the best of my ability- and give them a small break when it comes to English class. It’s a hard enough life as it is.

Touring Daegu

With a mere three months to go, it's all about cramming in the things I want to do!  Last week-end, the Deagu City Hall graciously invited foreigners to tag along on an -all day excursion to see the sites around Daegu.  The trip was totally worth it, and if you have a chance you should get to these hot spots for a day of fun on your own!

Our first stop was at the Guam Farm. The Farm is nestled between mountains and has some beautiful scenery. You feel like you are settled in a an old time rural country village.  

Guam Farm Tour

We experienced some hands on- seasonal activities, laughing the whole time. We got to see how egg baskets were made back in the day, using weaving. 

Basket Weaving

I thought mine was way better... but now that I look at them... 

I think Amy's a natural basket weaver!!

Harvest Time

Next we were off to experience  harvesting crops.  I was very much relieved that tending to the rice fields was not on the agenda but instead we were headed to pick tomatoes.  After being loaded up on a huge tractor, we made our way down to the greenhouses.

We were carefully instructed on how to perfectly pick tomatoes and now have a new found respect for the farmers who must do this harvesting, because the temperature inside the greenhouse was about 45 degrees! I don't think I've ever picked so fast!! 

 The freshly picked tomatoes were delicious!

Rice Cakes 

Next stop was learning how traditional rice cakes were made. My friend Dave was chosen to beat down the rice using a large mallet! 

 Dave was having quite a lot of fun with this!!

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The cake is then dusted in powder, and cut into pieces

Herb Hillz

There is so much to do at Herb Hillz and if you're keeping track, check my earlier post where a bunch of us Zip Lined here!  This tour included seeing the herb Garden, making natural herb soap and candles. 

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My friend Lia carefully mixing her candle. 

 Candle Expert!!

Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medicine Center.

The rest of the day was spent at the Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medecine Center. We learned how to cut and package herbs and this place has all kinds of interesting exhibitions (which are foreigner friendly).  This place is perfect for a rainy day activity if you're looking for something to do in Daegu. 

 

All in all, it was a great day, filled with all kinds of memories and laughter. If you're looking for some fun things to do in Daegu- you should check out these hot spots!

Headbands and High Heels

When in Rome do as the Romans do. This age old saying has its applications for just about any traveler anywhere in the world. I've succumbed to the chopsticks, the bowing and the soju, but there's just two things that I haven't been able to do is sport  headbands and heels.

On Headbands: Korean women have an obsession with both being cute and sexy at the same time. This is all fine and dandy, most women want to appeal to the opposite sex in both a girlish and womanly manner- but when it means wearing mickey mouse ears at the ripe age of 25, in my opinion it just doesn't work.

When attending any amusement park in Korea, girls, teens and yes, adults  wear ears. It's really big here. Headbands with bows and pointed prints can be spotted on just about every female. I've even witnessed a few adult males wearing them.

For picture purposes only, I tried on a pair. I was complimented beyond measure.  Trust me, its the last time I'll be putting those on.

On High Heels: Every woman loves a fabulous pair of heels. As my girlfriend pointed out, here in Korea, the minute your foot slips in to the heel, the countdown begins.  In Korea, you have to walk just about everywhere you go. The streets are uneven and there are times when you're walking for several miles- putting on heels just isn't an option. However, Korean women are all gussied up for just about any occasion and wearing heels it seems is their only option for footwear.  They wear heels hiking, touring and even at amusement parks. It's ridiculous to me, but I guess when all these women are vying for couple-hood they have to put their best assets forward. Most of my ex-pat (male) friends love Korea for this sole purpose.  The women here choose sex appeal over comfort every day of the week.

Yesterday, we attended a local amusement park here in Daegu. A total of 23 schools arrived with students in elementary, middle and high school levels. Some of the outfits I saw were, well, outrageous. They were at an amusement park for crying out loud. Mini skirts, false eyelashes and heels. I'm not sure about everyone else out there, but when getting ready for a day on the roller-coasters; heels and frilly dresses are not the first items to be pulled out of my wardrobe.  But this is Korea, after all.  Below are some high school students waiting at the park.

I guess the point is that when you are in Korea, try not to stare at the Koreans.

Spring!

Spring has finally arrived in Daegu, Korea!  The Koreans tell me it's a little late, and after one of the coldest Winters they've had in a long time it's quite a breath of fresh air. (Well with the yellow dust still lingering-- its not quite as fresh as some would like).

Here in Korea, Spring brings forth the start of a slew of festivals. Korea has a festival for just about anything and everything- and I am begining to wonder if its just a label they put on the occassion to spruce it up a little.

Last week-end, Daegu's Cherry Blossom Festival kicked off.   There are two  areas where the crowds flock to encounter the blossoms. The first, and most famous area is Jinhae, located in the South Gyeongsang Province. Their  festival starts on March 31 and runs through April 9. The city  features 300,000 cherry trees.  The second area is in the city of Gyeongju (Kyongju).  The city also hosts an annual marathon named after the blossoms, and has Bomun Lake Resort close by which has blossom trails.

Given the rough start to Spring this year, as we rode our tour bus through Daegu to Gyeongju- we eagerly anticipated the natural beauty that would soon be before our eyes. As we exited the bus, we were bombarded by beautiful bare blossom trees.  We were one week too early!

As we searched the landscape, not a single blossom tree could be seen. We trudged on, through the beautiful park and arrived at the  Bomun Lake resort.  As we scanned some more, we finally found three cherry trees in full bloom (it wasn't quite the hundreds we were expecting- but nevertheless we took the opportunity to shoot some photos).

Bomun Lake Resort was a beautiful scene, despite the cooler winds from the lake- the resort was full of winding walking paths, pagodas and scattered about were a few lone cherry and magnolia trees. It would have been spectacular to have seen the trees at their best- in full bloom!!

Despite the lack of cherry  trees, we managed to have a fabulous day.  We decided to make the best of it and rent some four wheelers (this of course ended up being the highlight of our day).

Take a Bow!

In the West, when saying hello we often greet people with a quick wave of the hand, or even a simple hand shake when meeting people for the first time. Here in East Asia it's all about the bow.


Before arriving in Korea, I of course brushed up on some traditional Korean ways using my trusty Lonely Planet guide. Pages of traditional customs outlining the ins- and outs of the Korean lifestyle. The one thing that panicked me was of course the whole concept of the bow. Who knew one concept could muster up so much fear. Who do you bow to? How far to you go? Is it a head nod, or from the waist?

Within the first few days I learned that bowing is a form of greeting as well as a form of respect- and to reflect differences in social standing. So I bow to those who are older, and head nod to those that are of equal social position. Those that are younger than me, give a full bow, hinging from the waist. Basically, the bowing occurs when there is a social relationship. So, if I were just walking around town you wouldn't catch all younger people bowing down, but those that know me would be required to.

What I can tell you is this- it's a concept I'd love to bring back home with me. I admit that my ego may be taking over here, as there is this pseudo superstar feeling that comes along when you're walking down the halls and teenagers fully bow down to you. I can't help but feel like nobility when walking through the halls of my school.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if upon my return home, my younger siblings bowed down to me- and all of my younger friends? What if I were dating a younger man- he'd have to bow every time we met up. There may be some advantages to be thirty one after all. Of course this is such a pleasant thought- but I have a feeling this would only happen in my wildest western dreams.

Norebang! Norebang!

Norebang ( nor-eh-bang): a Korean Karaoke Bar. If there is one thing in the world that I am truly bad at... it's singing. I can barely carry a tune and let's not even talk about how I virtually make up the words to the most popular songs...

Norebang is the thing to do around here. The Koreans love it. Here’s the thing: they can do it without even the teeniest drop of alcohol. Where I’m from unless we’ve had significant amounts of alcohol to loosen us up- belting out the tunes just isn’t happening. But the Koreans marvel in it and can do it for hours. The crowd claps away, tapping their feet to the beats. The tambourines come out and well, there’s a party happening before you know it.


A few weeks ago, my school went for dinner to close the school year. Apparently, here in Korea they swap dessert for singing. As one after another took center stage, I was shocked, they were good. Really good, in fact. Not that I truly had any idea if they were even in tune or what they were saying...

I of course, was dragged up on stage and was told to pick a song. Let me remind you that 99% of the songs are Korean and therefore the selections are mostly from the late sixties to the early nineties. I was mortified. There was nothing worse than standing up in front of 40 or so of my Korean colleagues singing an outdated English song that no one had ever even heard of. I completely destroyed the song.  They smiled and clapped along of course, but I think they were just being kind.

I'm told we're gathering up again next week to hit the Karaoke bar.  I've already planned to have a nasty sore throat preventing me from participating in any sort of singing.

The Gold Coast Part I

First Stop-The Bottle Shop: Having heard fabulous things about the Gold Coast- we made a 4-day stop over in Surfer's Paradise. Arriving shortly after eight we met up with some thirty something men heading to a bachelor party who kindly offered us a lift to our destination.  The taxi driver asked us for our first stop.  Both men responded through sly smiles, "first stop- the bottle shop".  As we sipped on some local brew in the back of the taxi bus purchased through a drive through liquor store, the guys were surprised to find out we were headed to surfer's. With furrowed brows- they advised us to beware- informing us we were headed to Ferrell haven. You may ask what a Ferrell is, just as we did. As the taxi zoomed in and out of traffic the guys pointed out ferrell passerbys on the street.  By definition, a ferrell is a person who is nasty, gross or disgusting. As the taxi loomed on- my travel mate and I exchanged quizzical glances -- fantastic,  we were headed to the ferrell capital of the world.

Second Stop- Surf N' Sun Beach Side Backpackers: Don't be fooled by the name- both the website and name boast an oasis of sorts. Walking in through the front gate we were bombarded with a whack of eighteen to young twenty somethings partying it up in cowboy hats and glow sticks. As we checked in (to the most unfriendly staff) we were stared down like we had arrived from a different planet. I felt like a grandmother in  this place. A few 20 year old ferrells passed us by , giving us the one up and over as we dropped our 20kg packs. I couldn't help but think I had made it to hostel hell.

Thank God for small miracles, because before arriving we had booked a private flat for only a few bucks more- and let me assure you- it was well worth it. Private bath, bedrooms, and our own living room and kitchen- it was the way to go. I could only picture myself in a room with 6 other 20 year old's rooming together in bunk beds. I would have rather shot myself.

Third Stop- A quick trip around town and a bite to eat: I will sum up Surfer's Paradise with a quick sister city comparison- Daytona Beach Florida with a Vegas flair. Scouring the strip to find a place to grab a bite we were introduced to surfer's. Meter Maid's clad in skimpy barely there gold bikini's complete with hooker heels roamed the streets. Boys in board shorts stumbling with fistfulls of bagged beer and hard alcohol. Girls in skimpy dresses that were designed to be shirts- one even forgot her pants as she sported a body-suit with 4 inch heels.  I saw more skin than I cared to. I couldn't help but feel that I'd been here before-- twelve years ago on a College trip to Daytona!

In going with the flow, I secured my negative comments to the vault-- as I knew that I was once as care-free and wild as the lot of them. As we settled down to a good glass of wine and nice meal- we couldn't help but have a few good laughs at where we were.

TBC...

Welcome to LAX

It's only taken me 5 months to realize that I landed at the wrong airport in August. I feel like I should have landed in L.A. given that I've found myself in a city full of vanity and cosmetic obsessions.The only thing that's missing is the blond hair and big boobs.

Korean women go everywhere and anywhere armed with three essential items. A pocket mirror, make-up and high heels. Everywhere I turn Korean women are decked out and dolled up. They turn up for a lazy Sunday coffee sporting the latest fashion trends and can be seen re-applying make-up while holding a latte. I've even  witnessed women hike mountains in stiletto's. I've never been in a culture so aesthetically obsessed.

There are days when I am envious. I wish I was able to leave the house having primed and pampered myself for hours before stepping one peep-toe pump out of the door. I just don't have the time or energy to primp that way before my day begins.

Don't get me wrong-- a week-end night out entails a lot of effort. The perfect blow dry; an extra swipe of blush and mascara. But some days, I just throw on my sneakers, pull my hair back into a  low pony tail and go. There are days when I only catch a quick glimpse of myself in the mirror.

Korean's aesthetic ideals are an obsession. Almost every woman I've met here has had some form of cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgery is rampant here. They tell me it is because if  you have a "flaw" it should be fixed. They pat their faces and stretch their necks a hundred times a day to prevent wrinkles. Korean women talk about rhinoplasty, face-lifts and plastic surgeries like North American's talk about the weather.

Some days it's hard to live in this society. Korea is such an image conscientious society and you can't help but feel less than adequate in your old blue jeans and runners as you walk about town. I'm beginning to wonder if these women have it right!?  Korean women are considered the most beautiful of all the Asian countries.  

I'm told that here in Korea, women have a small window of opportunity to catch a husband. This window usually lasts from 22-27 years. After 27, they are considered old and chances of securing a mate rapidly declines. My guess is that for the many still single Korean women in their twenties the only way to get a men to perk up is to be as atheistically pleasing as can be.

For now, I'm thankful that I have been blessed with good genes and that my age is masked most of the time. I'm also especially grateful that where I'm from- single women in their thirties aren't clawing their way through in search of the last few good men standing.   Although the pool may have dwindled  a little- I'm content as can be just the way I am, without any cosmetic alterations. 

Moving Day

One of the greatest things about being thirty is that I've learned through the years how to be assertive, ask for what I want and tell it like it is. There really is no harm asking- and I've learned that sometimes people actually say "yes". Of course, my way is to do it all with style, class and of course a smile. It's proved to be quite advantageous since being in Korea.

I recall when I first arrived, I made a bit of a fuss over the bed I was given. It was uneven, lumpy and lopsided actually! After a few days of gripes, I was told they were going to provide me with a new bed. Here in Korea, once a decision is made, they act swiftly and smoothly. Within an hour of them deciding that a new bed would be needed- it was purchased, delivered and set up within three hours. People move fast. They say Korea is dynamic- but I never expected to be blown away by how quickly some decisions are made. No hassles, no complaints, just done.

Having been borderline hypothermic for the past two weeks in my apartment, I've been expressing my utter dissatisfaction with the situation. A little griping goes a long way it seems! This morning I was informed that the administration has finally agreed to look at some new apartments for me (this of course was refused when I first saw the apartment 5 months ago). Here's how quick everything happens:

11:00 am Off to see some of the studio styles available near my school.
11:05 am Viewing of studio apartment #1
11:15 am Viewing of studio apartment #2
11:30 am Administration negotiates the lease
11:45 am settled on an apartment
12:00 pm confirmation that the apartment I liked would be mine
12:02 pm advised that I would be moving in 3 days
12:05 pm drive back to the apartment with 5 male teachers
12:10 pm male teachers deliberate, argue and sketch furniture placement
12:25 pm I'm given the apartment key and a few boxes

This timetable was not exaggerated in the least. That's really how quickly everything happens around here. I guess there really isn't any harm in asking and owe it all to the advantage of having lived and learned the right way to get what you really want!

Scrub, Scrub, Scrub

Having been chilled to the bone for a few days- I took matters into my hands and decided it was a good day to indulge in a public bath, otherwise known in Korea as the Jjimjilbang (gender segregated public bath house) If you've read some of my earlier posts- you'll know that making this decision doesn't come lightly!

The place was packed, as I suspected that others were of like mind, beating their weather woes with a good spa treatment. I took my time, enjoying the heat and relaxation. I enjoyed the steam room, jumping from the ice cold pool to hot whirlpool. I even indulged in the high jet massage pool. I felt relaxed and warm. A perfect week day afternoon.

Having spent about an hour savoring the the different pools- my eye caught sight of a woman heading in to a tiny room off to the side of the spa. She was escorted onto one of two massage tables lying side by side. I had heard of these scrub rooms, where Korean women frequently go to have an extreme exfoliation treatment. Women who work at the public baths, called ajuma's (Korean for Aunt) scrub you down.

I sat nervously in the whirlpool, desperately wanting to experience this scrub down for myself. After an internal fight with myself - I decided what the hell. Now or never. As I strutted my stuff across the pools, I glanced over at the lady getting scrubbed down. She appeared calm and relaxed as the ajuma scrubbed away. I stood there for a moment, and caught the ajuma's attention. She smiled as I pointed to my self and made circling scrubbing motions. She nodded her head and flashed her palm. The woman on the table briefly opened her eyes and in her broken English told me to wait a few minutes. As I scoped the scene, I had no idea of the cost, the duration or what to expect- the sign above was of course only in Korean.

My ajuma finally appeared, a petite curious looking woman wearing her bra and panties. She smiled and pointed towards the table. She asked me something in Korean and repeated again. I flicked my eyes towards the woman on the other table, hoping she could possibly translate. She pointed to her face and questioned if I wanted a facial treatment. With nothing to lose I nodded eagerly in agreement.

In silence, she tapped gently on my legs or arms to position me properly. As I lay face up on the table, she poured two pails of hot water over my body. A seaweed and fresh cucumber face mask was slathered on and away she went. She scrubbed every inch of my body. The process is repeated three times, with different products. The scrubbing was quite enjoyable actually. At one point during the treatment I heard her say something to the other ajuma. Slightly paranoid I wondered if she was talking about me? I know that I am the only Caucasian to have entered this public bath. I quickly let it go, and put my attention back into enjoying the treatment.

After applying a thick layer of lotion and exfoliater I was asked to sit up so she could scrub parts not previously covered. As I gently opened my eyes I observed that I was surrounded by piles of dead skin. I must have gasped and winced a little because my ajuma began to giggle. She nodded her head agreeing that the filth around me was in fact mine. I could not believe the amount of skin. I must have shed a least a few pounds. I knew I scrubbed myself- but this was unreal. No wonder Korean women go every second week to get a good scrub down. My skin never felt softer.

As the last rinse was completed, she slicked on a thick layer of body butter and told me to go rinse off. I was done! I felt so relaxed and clean. The whole treatment lasted an hour and fifteen minutes. As I showered up, patted dry and dressed I worried about where I paid for this and what the cost would be.

As I stepped out to collect my shoes- the lady scribbled the amount I owed on a piece of paper for me. The total cost was 15,000 won. That's roughly $14.00. I happily paid for the service, and as I left the building filled with glee- I knew this would become my new addiction.

Antarctica

Nothing screams home like a good snow storm. Feeling like we were in the Canadian Artic last week, Daegu had a hefty snowfall. The kind of snow that streams from the sky. Thick and fluffy. Just perfect for building snowmen and catching snowflakes.

Winter's first snow fall is just one of those things I love. My heart skips, and girlish giddyness washes over me. As I strolled home through the winterwonderland taking in the grey skies, the whipping cold and harsh winds I realized how these days are just the perfect setting to cuddle up inside, light a fire, brew a good cup of cocoa and snuggle up with your man.

As I opened the door to my apartment, I flicked on the lights and undressed from my coat, hat and mitts. I peeked into my apartment but there was no fireplace, no cocoa, and no man.

I settled for a a billion blankets, a cup of Earl Grey tea and sole snuggling. I stretched out on my bed to watch my latest download and pulled and tucked most of the blankets I owned around me. After a few solid minutes, I felt a cold draft in the air. De-cuddling myself to check out the cause of the temperature shift, I noticed that I could see my breath in the air. I knew the weather had turned brisk, but my apartment was nearly as cold inside as it was outside. I double checked that the boiler system was on. The green beam flashed indicating it was on and working. These boiler systems are equipped with temperature gauges, and heat from the floor. I peered at the temperature. A bomby 14 degrees! I scaled the gauge higher in hopes that the number would change.

Two hours later the temperature hadn't budged. I was in Antarctica. I bundled up with my hat, mitts and layered on a heavy sweater. I put on long johns and ski socks and nestled in for my night's sleep.

It's been 8 days. I've now resorted to camping out on the floor of my apartment. Let's not even mention the whole shower ordeal. Some days I feel like I'm practicing for the Polar Bear club.

Two days ago I received my gas/heat bill. It was ridiculous! They say it's because it's a really old building. The temperature in my apartment has not budged from 14 degrees in over 8 days, no matter how high I scale the knob.

As I eagerly await for the Spring temperatures of February to arrive swiftly, I have succumbed to the camp out on my living room floor. I still wear my hat and mitts to bed and dream nightly of toasting by the roaring fire, with a cup of hot cocoa snuggled up with a man.

All alone for Christmas

For the first time in my life, it really doesn't feel like Christmas time at all. Downtown Daegu is lined with a few Christmas trees full of twinkling lights and sparkling decorations- carols can be heard as you wander past the rows of shops- bakeries present beautiful sweet treats in the windows... but the Christmas cheer is far from home.

This year, as I celebrate Christmas a little differently in the land of the morning calm- I realize that even though I may be "alone" for Christmas, miles away from family and friends- I am not completely alone. For those of us who find ourselves in Korea for Christmas we have gathered around and made new Christmas memories. There may not be any chestnuts roasting on an open fire, snowflakes streaming from the skies or gifts under the tree- but we do have new friendships to toast to.

For the past 30 years Christmas has been spent dashing from one house to the other, lugging gifts, and indulging in one meal after another. This year I have avoided Christmas crowds; gift lists; trimming the tree; wrapping; packaging; cooking; baking; cleaning; driving; de-decorating the tree, and weeks vacuuming up the remnants of the pine scented tree (the most dreaded of holiday activities) that have made up my Christmas ritual year after year.

Although I am rejoicing in the fact that this year I have managed to escape the Christmas craziness- there is something to be said for celebrating the real spirit of Christmas.

Nothing feels more like Christmas than to have friends and family dropping in, the joy and laughter that comes with gathering around the tree; giving and receiving presents and toasting to the holidays. Despite all my delight to the no stress approach this year, I think I would trade it all in just to be home for the holidays.

Templestay

In the past two years I've sat through intensive Vipassana Meditation courses. Vipasassana mediation is one of Asia's most ancient techniques of meditation attributed to Gautama Buddha. Having experienced some powerful insight, liberation and detachment during these sittings, I've always been drawn to experiencing more.

If you're going to teach English in Korea, I highly recommend participating in a TempleStay. In Korea, the temple gates open to those who wish to be introduced and experience Buddhism. The Korean Buddhism tradition has existed for over 1700 years and participating in Templestay is one of the many rich cultural experiences one can do in Korea.

For 24 hours we experienced the unique lifestyle of Buddhist practitioners. We settled on Haeinsa Temple which offers the full cultural experience. High in the mountains, surrounded by thousand year old trees, ponds, and pathways this temple offered more than just natural beauty.

We were surrounded my monks (Sunim) in traditional robes, the many temples nestled in the forests and the sounds of wind chimes clamouring in the wind. Our host was a Korean Monk who spoke perfect English, and his story touched us all. He , like many monks lived a so-called normal life just as you and I. A life of attachment, material possessions and suffering. I am so grateful for his words, wisdom and insight.

The stay begins at with an opening ceremony at 16:00- we were given traditional clothing and shown to our rooms. The men and women are of course separated. A simple dwelling: you are given blankets and pillows and sleep on the comfort of the heated floor.

We were taught about temple banner, how to bow and basic Buddhist philosophies. At 17:00 We were treated to Balwoo-gongyang (a traditional Buddhist meal) and then to the main temple for Ye-bool at the 18:00. The Ye-boo is the Buddhist ritual that pays respect to Buddha.

To participate and observe hundreds of monks in the temple, chanting and bowing was one of the most amazing and beautiful things that I have ever seen. The energy that filled the room was indescribable. We bowed with them, and quietly observed the ritual.

At 19:00 we engaged in a Da-do- a Tea Ceremony with our Sunim; where he told us of his University days, including tragic suffering that finally led him to his path of becoming a Buddhist monk. The Buddhists claim that while drinking tea we are enjoying life. The whole ceremony was quite the process from the brewing to the drinking.

We talked about life, it's meaning, Buddhist precepts, faith and the Matrix. We talked for hours, quietly reflecting and tasting our tea. Lights out was at 21:00, as Korean Buddhists are the one of the few who rise the earliest.

The Sunim's rise at 02:30. In the darkness of the night, with the moon shining high in the sky, the monks perform a traditional drum ceremony. The pre-dawn ceremony is ignited by the drums that can be heard at 03:10, waking the animals, mammals, and lastly the humans. We joined again in the main hall at 04:00. The chants awakening every human form in the room. As the monks chant in unison, you can feel the energy flowing through your entire body.

The thought of the sacredness and the awakening of our bodies and minds at 03:00 was truly eye-opening. Normally, we would all still be out at the bars traipsing around trying to make our way home.

We were shown how to bow and at 05:00 we participated in the chanting of a thousand hands led by a senior monk and performed 108 bows. We sat through a 45 minute Zen Meditation sitting with perfect posture and breathing. We were again served tea, and had delighted to a modest breakfast.

In the morning calm, we we shown how to make our own Prayer beads. 108 strung along in complete silence. The monks say the significance of making the beads is not in the bead itself- but that the beads are meaningful because they contain within them our prayers and hopes.

We walked the grounds in full meditation and the stay wrapped up shortly after lunch. For nearly 24 hours, you are connected to your body and mind- and I was reminded of how much I truly need to remove themselves from the toxicity and negative influences in the world.

As a result of enduring some major pains some years ago, I committed to a journey to seek myself. To seek my true self. My purpose, my life and my passions. I can tell you that over the past two years my path to self-discovery has taken me to places within myself I'd never dreamed of going. I don't know that I will be able to seek enlightenment- but I do know that I am closer to fulfilling my true purpose and am so grateful to those who have shown up on my path.

May all beings be happy.

Routines

One of my good girlfriend's told me something once that I have never forgotten. Being half way around the World this statement couldn't be any truer.

She told me that it doesn't matter where you go, or where you choose live-- you always end up back in the same routine. The routine that is comfortable and familiar.

Despite struggling at times with my life here in Korea- I've managed to just about fit all of my familiar things into my life here.

I work, go to the gym, eat, download all of my favorite (North American) shows, read, sleep and go at it again. A few nights a week, I may enjoy the company of my Korean teachers and other nights I meet up with friends for dinner and drinks. Nothing much has changed- except I'm doing it all in Korea!

The best part is that while I've fallen back into my routines- I get the added benefits of seeing some amazing things; learning all about a new culture; taking day trips and week-end trips all over the country.

I may have left the comfort of my routine back home; and although I'm making new ones here- I'm shaking things up everyday and look forward to the next adventure all the time.

Livin it Up!

Here in Korea- I don't really feel thirty. I mean well yes, of course the mirror reflects back a few (minor) tolls of gravity on my body- but besides that I am living it up as though I were some twenty year old most of the time.

I am one of few people around here in the three-oh category. I am surrounded by early to mid-twenty somethings- most of whom have just graduated from University and left the comfort of their parents homes.

The kids here party like rock stars and manage to make it out every Friday and Saturday to the hippest bars and clubs. They stumble home at all of hours of the morning- sleep it off and return several hours later to do it all over again.

I attempted to keep up with this lifestyle my first few weeks of being here- for the most part I was able to keep up (really there is nothing much else to do here on weekends)- and to my contentment many were shocked when they discovered my stamina when they learned of my age.

Last month, I came to the conclusion that the parade around town re-living my life as though I were twenty must come to an end. I've become aware of the fact that I just cannot handle going out two nights in a row anymore. My body has rejected this back-to-back notion with full force. It is reminded of my late nights and weekend binges back in the day- and has cautioned me to act my own age.

So as the decision to live it up one night a week has surfaced- I will try and make the best of it while my body is still able to keep up.

Holy Over the Hill

Weeknights can get a bit boring around here. To mix things up my friends and I try and meet up mid week to have a drink and grab dinner. There are so many restaurants around Daegu- you really have a lot to choose from.

You can find just about anything from traditional Korean, to Japanese, Chinese and even Indian. There are some wonderful Italian places, and we've even found some cozy French restaurants. Of course there is the all American eateries too. Over here they're called ex-pat places.

Within are first few weeks of arrival we located a highly talked about restaurant and sports lounge. They call it the Holy Grill. Located east of Rodeo Street it's a 2 floor establishment. The menu has some quality tastes from home, including Mexican food, real buffalo chicken wings, burgers and the best staple from back home- poutine.

My friend and I had heard about Wednesday Night's Wing Night- say we decided to give it a go this week. The sports lounge was empty with only the two of us chowing down on some fantastic wings and fries. The screen was playing highlights of the Hockey games- and really it felt just like being at home.

We were kinda hoping there would be more atmosphere- or at least a few more bodies- but nevertheless we entertained ourselves. As we finished the last several bites of our meal, two new customers entered the place.

I must admit, the male caught my eye. He was awfully cute. Then from behind him the female figure emerged. As the two took a seat at the far end of the bar, we struck up a conversation.

Turns out Mr. Looker was from my hometown, and he and his girlfriend attended the same University as myself. The girlfriend was absolutely ecstatic to know that we attended the same University, and proudly informed me that she had just graduated in May. That's correct- May 2009. As she took a swig from her beer, she eagerly asked me when I had graduated. She took another gulp and awaited my response.

"Umm, 2003", I replied with an edge of confidence. The girl wrinkled her nose and said half hazardly, "wowwww. That's a long time ago!", and returned to her drink.

And there it was: A young twenty something alluding to the fact that I was OLD. The nerve.

I contemplated how to respond. On one hand, I could have agreed with her and made a fuss and rambled on about how old I really was... but then it hit me. I was reminded at that moment of a quote I had skimmed over a while back:

Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter (Mark Twain).

Bubble Baths

I have always loved a good soak in the tub. Nothing beats being nestled into a bath, surrounded by warm porcelain , candles and a terrycloth pillow. Enveloped in layers of aromatic foam, steam and hot water. Soaking your limbs to the sounds of soft background music. Completely alone.

After two months of wrestling with my daily shower routine in my small 4x4 box-of-a- bathroom the thought of soaking my body in a bath was overwhelming.

Here in Korea bathrooms are not usually equipped with any type of fancy claw-foot tubs but they do have what's called public baths. You can find one of these bath houses just about everywhere within a 2 mile radius.

Being a newbie to Korea; we first heard of these establishments within days of our arrival. With no idea what to expect- my girlfriend and I decided to try one a couple of weeks ago. Walking around downtown one day- we spotted the sign and went in on whim. (enter record scratching here).

For about 4,000 won (that's roughly 3.50$) you are handed two very teeny towels, enough to say .... dry your hands and were quickly ushered towards the entrance.

With quizzical brows, we fumbled around the wall of small lockers. As a Korean woman brushed past us, we noted she carefully placed her shoes in the locker, and then went on to another desk. She gave us what we thought was a side glanced semi head nod- and so we followed pursuit.

With our shoes neatly tucked away, we knew that the next step would be to strip. As we entered the lounge, we were immediately blinded by buck- nakedness. A few women gaped as the two foreigners walked briskly towards their assigned locker numbers. They continued to stare even as we began to peel back layers of clothing. There was a slight awkwardness in knowing that in less than 30 seconds the two us would be in our birthday suits in front of not only each other but amongst 35 Korean women of all shapes and sizes.

We stared each other in the eye and both shrugged slightly. "This is Korea", we chimed in unison. As we took the iddy bitty towelette to cover whatever we could we bee lined it for the bath.

I scanned this new universe quickly- trying to avoid eyeballing the thirty or so bathing women who were all goggling back at us. Most stopped dead in mid-rinse to get a good look at the fresh white bodies. Horrified at their lack of privacy- we found our way into the closest nook- the steam room. With stifled giggles- we were safe. The hard part was trying to keep our conversation going all the while sitting their totally in the nude. We peered through the steamed glass to get a good look at our surroundings.

The public bath is laid out on one floor- it contains a sauna, a steam room, and a cold pool. There is a hot tub, and two other rectangular hot baths. This one even included a warm bath equipped with powerful jet sprays that send intense pressure to your muscles. And then there are about 25 shower stations lined against the back walls. Everything is out in the open, including the women.

The experience was interesting to say the least. With no knowledge of Korean and what the heck we were doing- we just did our best. Hopping from one pool to the next, taking it all in. The obvious staring was quite aggravating after awhile- but then again I think they were more concerned with our lack of hair down there than anything else. As shocking as it was for them- trust me it was a real shocker to be bombarded with bush. In case you were never informed- Korean women go at it "au naturelle" .

This concept of publicly bathing is a hard one to get around- as North American's we usually cover up as much as possible when in the gym locker room or any public place where undressing is required. We are used to shower curtains and privacy- but here in Korea if you want to get a soak on- you need to brave the masses.

I've been twice now on my own- I've held my head high and done my own thing. I still struggle with walking from the locker to the bath (which is about 8 meters away) with only a face cloth to cover my heiny- but I hope one day to just prance right on through without even a care in the world. Until that day arrives, I'm still resorting to leaving the contacts at home so that I don't see a thing.

Tip #1: Better to go at it in two's your first time. Language barriers and nudity may pose a problem to some.
Tip #2: Go prepared. Bring a large size bath towel and toiletries!

Ready, Set. Go.

Travel List

Vaccines. Check.
Selling of personal possessions. Check.
Passport. Check.
Visa. Check.
Money. Check.
Tickets.Check
Sanity. Check.

After three months of what seems to be endless preparation, the time has finally come. In less than 24 hours I will be making my way across to the other side of the world.

Packing your life into two bags with 55 pound weight restrictions has been trying. What do you take? What do you leave behind? You start to sort the non-negotiables from the negotiables. Hair dryer, straightener and lulu-lemon pants (non -negotiables). Shoes, products and make-up (non-negotiables). With whatever room you're left with you cram as much clothing, books, pictures, and personal things as you can. It wasn't as easy as it sounds. I packed, re-packed and packed again, eliminating things as I trudged along.

Having won the wrestling match with my two suitcases, I left the worry of going over my weight allowance in the wind. There are just so many things I couldn't leave behind.

As the hour quickly approaches, I'm mindlessly moving one pile from one area to the other. With only a few last minute things to pack, I'm ready to go.

I feel pretty calm despite what awaits ahead. I figure one of two things will happen when I step foot into the bussling airport in the morning. Either, I'll realize I've lost my sanity and demand that my parents drive me right back to the comfort of my family home or with a few tears and stomach flips I'll make my way through the gate and embrace the adventure.

There are bets that I will have a minor melt down, but as I see it- it isn't good-bye... it's see you in a little while...