Escaping out of Dhaka is just as it sounds... Escaping the noise, escaping the traffic, escaping the pollution, and est of all, just escaping the bloomin city!!! Last week, I made the roughly 10 hour journey from Dhaka to the Bandabarns, a distance of only about 200 kilometres... Yes, it takes ten hours... I KNOW!
The Bandabarns, located on the lower eastern border of Bangladesh, is a place where any who visit can somehow imagine themselves moving to. Yes, it's still in a third world country. Yes, facilities are limited. Yes, it is a long journey to get anywhere. Yes, it's on the side of a mountain. Yes, it's hot... But compared to Dhaka, it's a paradise, a place where you find yourself getting a high off just seeing hills... and trees... Oh the trees!
A week of trecking, visiting remote tribal villages, riding in the back on an open-top jeep, laughing and fellowship was just what the doctor-in-my-head ordered. If we could have been 'kidnapped' on the last day of the journey whithout making it look staged, Grace International School would have been at a loss, losing half it's staff to the call of the jungle. To be honest, we almost didn't make it back to Dhaka! The ride we thought we'd organised to get from the Bandabarns to our connecting bus at Chittagong didn't show up - proof that even in paradise there can be language barriers and misconceptions - and to say we were hopeful the situation couldn't be rectified is the biggest understatement of the year.
As mentioned, we got to spend some time in a tribal village! Wow, it was one of the coolest experiences of my life thus far! The Mru tribe live in the Bandabarns and have their own language, though from what I could tell, there were some similarities here and there in Bangla. The kids were adorable, and once I got past the fact that most of them are naked, I was able to see and experience a taste of what their life is like. From the tribal leader who spent the first five minutes joking around with us, saying (through giggles I'll have you know) that we should give him 10 taka for each photo we take (yeah like THAT was going to happen!), to the kids who so thoroughly enjoyed eating my tiny teddies, we all had so much fun! Krista even raced some of the kids from the outskirts of the village back into the borders! Ah-mazing times! The journey into and out of the village wasn't quite so fondly remembered, over 600 steps and beaten track each way (aah, the pain), but we figure that at least our butts might have been whipped into some semblance of a shape other than round!!
We even headed up to Chimbuk, which is the second highest peak in Bangladesh. We walked, we saw, and found a bunch of Bengali's who thought we were their equivalent of Jennifer Aniston (being that we have white skin and all that). Olivia, Krista and I climbed a tree. Olivia got stuck. Krista tried to be cool and leapt from said tree holding a branch and landed spectacularly on the ground with a thiud, so clearly, I'm the only one who can be truly trusted to act like a monkey and not be harmed in some way.
One morning, our guide said 'we should take a short walk down to the river'. Ok, said we. Surely a walk to a river will be walking down the hill with minimal effort. WRONG! We were not walking down a path to get to the river... We were trecking... Honest to goodness trecking, in the middle of a flipping JUNGLE! Vines, check. Streams, check. Banana plants, check. Weird bugs, check (Josh and Sam, our Science teachers had the time of their lives!). Heat, check. Unbearable amount of sweat, check. Humidity so high you're sure you need a snorkel, check. Rocks, check, Mountains, check. Moss, check. Leeches, check (on my food, nasty litte blighter!). Once at aforesaid river, our guide arranged for two boats passing by to take us into town. That hour-long journey was gorgeous. We passed by small town, some villages, a boat packed with what I can only explain could have been an under 12's soccer team and everyone they'd ever met...
The Bandabarns reminded me that wherever you are, there are going to be some highlights, and some lowlights. Right now, Dhaka is one of the lowlights, but just knowing that such beauty exists outside the city is enough to keep me going til the next break!!! Unto the brech!!
Kim xox
Monday, October 25, 2010
Saturday, October 16, 2010
The journey... begins?
Nothing quite beats walking down the street seeing goats heads sitting neatly in a line, completely body-less... That's just one of the charming sights Krista and I encountered yesterday as we walked the 15 minute or so journey from one shop to another on our Dhaka journeys yesterday. The fact that I didn't throw up then and there is a testiment to just how much life for me has changed in the past 18 months. The journey started 542 days ago with a simple e-mail from Grace International School... And now look where I am, I KNEW checking e-mails and being tech savvy would have it's drawback at some stage!!! I'm kidding, of course!
Later today I am heading out of Dhaka - Whoop whoop!!! Of course, getting out of the the hustle and bustle is amazing, except for the death trap that is ANY vehicle in Dhaka... This will be my fifth and sixth journey on a Bengali 'coach' style bus, and this time, I'm doing it in style, executive seats, baby! Of course, it just means when we are all thrown through the windscreen to our death, I'll be one of the first to black out, but hey, that's why we pay just that little extra, right?? I'm yet to die on the roads here, I highly doubt that God would bring me all this way just to see my life end in such a way... *fingers crossed*
Looking forward to sharing some good stories when I return!!! Til then, here's a hug and a kiss or two to tide you over... xox
Later today I am heading out of Dhaka - Whoop whoop!!! Of course, getting out of the the hustle and bustle is amazing, except for the death trap that is ANY vehicle in Dhaka... This will be my fifth and sixth journey on a Bengali 'coach' style bus, and this time, I'm doing it in style, executive seats, baby! Of course, it just means when we are all thrown through the windscreen to our death, I'll be one of the first to black out, but hey, that's why we pay just that little extra, right?? I'm yet to die on the roads here, I highly doubt that God would bring me all this way just to see my life end in such a way... *fingers crossed*
Looking forward to sharing some good stories when I return!!! Til then, here's a hug and a kiss or two to tide you over... xox
Sunday, October 10, 2010
13 going on 30...
Today was hard, the beginning of week 10, in a 10 week term, need I say more?! After our weekly staff morning, I decided to hunker down and get a load of work done (which as usual was when my procrastination and feeling of weariness kicked in). You may ask, what is the cure for such an afternoon? Why, The Aussie club, of course!
Life always seems a little better after a swim and dinner at the Aussie club!! Spending time with friends out of the Dhaka context is always nice! Leaving the club to get home, however, is always a slight shock as one readjusts to the South East Asian culture. Like tonight, for example, when I got onto a rickshaw.
My rickshaw wallah (ie: the person who drives the rickshaw) was tiny. Upon the extensive conversation that could take place with his broken english and my 'kaup karap' (Bangla for 'very bad') Bangla, I learned the following things: His name was something my vocal chords and lack of Bangladeshi accent would never be able to pronounce, he was 13, he was working to support his mother, father and two younger brothers... And this was only his second day on the job. He was delighted to share bits and pieces of information (in just two day's work he had earned 502 taka!!) and seemed to like the fact that I lived near my friends (Krista and Esther who who on another rickshaw a little in front of his).
One thing I'll say for Bangladesh - It gives you perspective. Whether you like that perspective or not, it's there, just in front of your face. When I was 13 I was dealing with the fact that I only got between $10 and $20 pocket money. That's more than alot of people here earn in a month. When I was 13 I complained because I didn't want to eat brussel sprouts (actually, I still complain about that). There are people who would gladly eat brussels sprouts here... Out of the rubbish tip... When I was 13 I didn't like having homework. Here, the majority of the population wouldn't even be able to read homework if it was given to them. When I was 13 I wanted Billabong clothes. People here are happy to have a scrap of material to call their own. When I was 13 I complained about the comfort level of my pillow. People here sleep on the street, no bed, no pillow...
Aah, equality. I'm not so sure you exsist...
Monday, October 4, 2010
And so... It has well and truly been a while!
If I get 'How you doin'd' or 'wow'd' once more on a rickshaw in the coming weeks, someone is going to be shot... Here's a tip, random Bengali-man-that-I-don't-know - when I smile, that is NOT an invitation for you to assume I'm yours. I'm just saying.
On another note, I'm all booked - Australia for Christmas! AND, just as exciting as that news, I'll be dragging the ever-lovely Esther with me!!! I'm so blessed to be able to head home for the celebrations! The only thing is that I now have to save every penny to pay for my flights and figure out how I'm going to squeeze in seeing everyone that I possibly can!
Things in my classroom are busy (seriously, when are they NOT?!), but we're having so much fun! This year, for our 'Where in the World' topic, we've been taking magic carpet rides to various countries and then learning about them through activities. Today we strapped ourself onto the Magic carpet (ie: the carpet that happens to be in our room) and headed off to Romania. We studied atlasses and labelled maps then had a chance to decorate Horezo Roosters, a design that features heavily in Romanian pottery. We decided that instead of using pottery we would copy the original design onto transparencies and then use glass paints to decorate them. Needless to say, I had childrens hands covered in paint, but hey, none of them tried to eat it, so that's a bonus!
Maths has been a joy to teach this year so far, getting kids hyped up on M&M's for division 'sharing' problems. The only downside is that M&M's are imported here, so they cost an absolute bomb... Totally worth it now that my kids can divide with very few hassles!
This year, I'm the official 'Music Co-ordinator' for our campass, which has been challenging as I didn't even teach Music to my own class last year. Despite the bumps that I've felt, navigating through the music program currently in use in the school, I've been enjoying imparting my musical knowledge. I've even got Year 3 reading basic notation, something they aren't really meant to be exposed to until year 4 - Huzzah for the advanced kidletts!! I'm also teaching years 2 and 4, which has been a blast, getting to know quite a few kids I didn't really have anything to do with last year. The next big project for me is to start organising our Christmas productions - Eek! In theory, this should be a stress-free excercise, but we all know it wont be, I'm involved!!!!
My year 3's have been writing stories lately, which has kept me amused! Everything from pirates chasing after treasure, children finding hidden doors to other lands and times (not Narnia though, whether you believe it or not), and super hero's with sonic-blasters. My bunch have avid imaginations!!
I've decided to incorporate as many of the resources I made at college this year, so our 'Circle Time' has been based on the values in the NSW Board of Studies curriculum (luckily things like that translate to pretty much any school anywhere!), so we've been meeting some 'friends' including 'Careful Courtney', "Excellent Edward' and 'Respectful Rachel'. The kids are so excited to meet all the toehr characters, we only just started the program and have been learning about each character and value one week at a time. It has been a great way of teaching the kids about what the Bible has to say about how we treat one another.
I've officially made myself settled at my new abode and am loving living with Shannon, another crazy Canadian! She has been such an encouragement to me, and most amazingly, she think's I'm the bees knees!! It's been great spending time with all the newbies too (though, I think they're all veterans now). We're all in the middle of trying to organise our October break plans. So far, I think I'll end up staying in Dhaka, I'm trying to save money for when I'm home over Christmas, and the general cost that that brings. I'm trying to sort out a hens night for Kylie, going to be mega fun! I'm also flying to Brisbane for Jamie and Caths wedding - all wonderful things that require a little bit of moolah!
Ok, I think that's enough information for now!!! Hope everyone is well! Drop me a line if you've got a few moments to spare! miss_k_stevens@hotmail.com
Kim xox
On another note, I'm all booked - Australia for Christmas! AND, just as exciting as that news, I'll be dragging the ever-lovely Esther with me!!! I'm so blessed to be able to head home for the celebrations! The only thing is that I now have to save every penny to pay for my flights and figure out how I'm going to squeeze in seeing everyone that I possibly can!
Things in my classroom are busy (seriously, when are they NOT?!), but we're having so much fun! This year, for our 'Where in the World' topic, we've been taking magic carpet rides to various countries and then learning about them through activities. Today we strapped ourself onto the Magic carpet (ie: the carpet that happens to be in our room) and headed off to Romania. We studied atlasses and labelled maps then had a chance to decorate Horezo Roosters, a design that features heavily in Romanian pottery. We decided that instead of using pottery we would copy the original design onto transparencies and then use glass paints to decorate them. Needless to say, I had childrens hands covered in paint, but hey, none of them tried to eat it, so that's a bonus!
Maths has been a joy to teach this year so far, getting kids hyped up on M&M's for division 'sharing' problems. The only downside is that M&M's are imported here, so they cost an absolute bomb... Totally worth it now that my kids can divide with very few hassles!
This year, I'm the official 'Music Co-ordinator' for our campass, which has been challenging as I didn't even teach Music to my own class last year. Despite the bumps that I've felt, navigating through the music program currently in use in the school, I've been enjoying imparting my musical knowledge. I've even got Year 3 reading basic notation, something they aren't really meant to be exposed to until year 4 - Huzzah for the advanced kidletts!! I'm also teaching years 2 and 4, which has been a blast, getting to know quite a few kids I didn't really have anything to do with last year. The next big project for me is to start organising our Christmas productions - Eek! In theory, this should be a stress-free excercise, but we all know it wont be, I'm involved!!!!
My year 3's have been writing stories lately, which has kept me amused! Everything from pirates chasing after treasure, children finding hidden doors to other lands and times (not Narnia though, whether you believe it or not), and super hero's with sonic-blasters. My bunch have avid imaginations!!
I've decided to incorporate as many of the resources I made at college this year, so our 'Circle Time' has been based on the values in the NSW Board of Studies curriculum (luckily things like that translate to pretty much any school anywhere!), so we've been meeting some 'friends' including 'Careful Courtney', "Excellent Edward' and 'Respectful Rachel'. The kids are so excited to meet all the toehr characters, we only just started the program and have been learning about each character and value one week at a time. It has been a great way of teaching the kids about what the Bible has to say about how we treat one another.
I've officially made myself settled at my new abode and am loving living with Shannon, another crazy Canadian! She has been such an encouragement to me, and most amazingly, she think's I'm the bees knees!! It's been great spending time with all the newbies too (though, I think they're all veterans now). We're all in the middle of trying to organise our October break plans. So far, I think I'll end up staying in Dhaka, I'm trying to save money for when I'm home over Christmas, and the general cost that that brings. I'm trying to sort out a hens night for Kylie, going to be mega fun! I'm also flying to Brisbane for Jamie and Caths wedding - all wonderful things that require a little bit of moolah!
Ok, I think that's enough information for now!!! Hope everyone is well! Drop me a line if you've got a few moments to spare! miss_k_stevens@hotmail.com
Kim xox
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Leave it to... someone else!
If the past week has taught me anything, it is that Gods timing is the only timing that means anything. Between visa's, flights, plans and expectations, there are very few things that have gone according to my perceived timing. It seems to have happeneed that way to all of the Grace staff of late. Perhaps the Devil knows exactly where to hit us at this point. Perhaps he thinks if he strikes now, he stops the wonderful and awesome plans of the one true God. I, as usual, have no concise answers...
So, my crazy journey back to Bangladesh started in Sydney airport, where Cathay Pacific were reluctant to let me go due to my Bangladesh visa expiring soon. I guess they were doing the right thing, making sure I wouldn't be deported from Bangladesh at their costs. It didn't seem to matter how much I explained how Bangladesh operates, they didn't want me getting on that plane! Eventually, they let me sign some forms and they let me onto the plane... Then, mid-air to Hong Kong, one of the flight attendants comes and talks to me about it all again, making sure I understood that if anything happened, it was my problem not theirs. Hong Kong airport was a drama all its' own. My flight from their to Dhaka was scheduled to leave at 18:05. By 7.45 they still hadn't posted what gate the flight was laving from! As I was boarding, I was tackled with visa questions again!! Once on the flight, all was well, thank goodness! Dhaka airport, oh dhaka airport! They took my passport away for a little while after telling me 'Ok, Madam' when I told them I was about to reapply for my visa. Luckily, they brought the passport back and then let me into the country!!!! AMEN!
Now that I am back and settling into things, I've been provided with yet more evidence that Bangladesh, like God, works on it's own timetable... The difference between the two, however, is that when God promises something, it happens!!!!!
Til the next instalment,
K xx
So, my crazy journey back to Bangladesh started in Sydney airport, where Cathay Pacific were reluctant to let me go due to my Bangladesh visa expiring soon. I guess they were doing the right thing, making sure I wouldn't be deported from Bangladesh at their costs. It didn't seem to matter how much I explained how Bangladesh operates, they didn't want me getting on that plane! Eventually, they let me sign some forms and they let me onto the plane... Then, mid-air to Hong Kong, one of the flight attendants comes and talks to me about it all again, making sure I understood that if anything happened, it was my problem not theirs. Hong Kong airport was a drama all its' own. My flight from their to Dhaka was scheduled to leave at 18:05. By 7.45 they still hadn't posted what gate the flight was laving from! As I was boarding, I was tackled with visa questions again!! Once on the flight, all was well, thank goodness! Dhaka airport, oh dhaka airport! They took my passport away for a little while after telling me 'Ok, Madam' when I told them I was about to reapply for my visa. Luckily, they brought the passport back and then let me into the country!!!! AMEN!
Now that I am back and settling into things, I've been provided with yet more evidence that Bangladesh, like God, works on it's own timetable... The difference between the two, however, is that when God promises something, it happens!!!!!
Til the next instalment,
K xx
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Q and A
20kg... 20kg! It's hard to fit your life into a suitcase, when all you are allowed is 20kg! I guess that this time around, I'm not moving my whole life over to Bangladesh, as I did last year, which is an upside. I am, however, stuck in an endless cycle of 'What is going to be most useful, Gumboots for the flooding or sheet music for my sanity?'... As usual, I think that the music will win the battle!
As usual, friends in Australia are asking all sorts of lovely questions, so I thought I'd stop and try to answer them as eloquently as possible:
What is Bangladesh like?
Well, in terms of climate, Bangladesh is what I imagine sitting in a drier that's 10 minutes into an hour cycle would be like. On the one hand, you're moist no matter where you are, and on the other hand it's flipping hot! I have a lovely little application on my laptop which keeps my up to date with the temperature and climate in Dhaka. At this current moment, it is 8 am in Bangladesh and it's already 30% with an added kick of 79% humidity. I really WISH I was kidding! Gees, the humidity is going to kill me next week! In other climate news, it's monsoon season at the moment, which means potential torrential rain, flooding and general blah-ness. Perhaps we'll have to head to school one day in boats rather than busses!
Why are you in Bangladesh?
This is a question that has so many long answers. The most straightforward response is this: I am in Bangladesh because God placed a calling on my life. I wasn't necessarily called to Bangladesh or teaching, I was called to live a life of genuine obedience, where I am challenged to do whatever God asks of me. It's something I have struggled with my whole life. Looking back, I now realise that there have been instances where I have not been obedient. I'm in Bangladesh as a teacher at a school that serves the mission families of Bangladesh by taking responsibility of the schooling of their children so that THEY can do what God has asked them to do without feeling any angst over the development or educational status of their children.
What does a 'normal' day look like for you in Bangladesh?
My day often starts by hitting the snooze button quite a few times! I have NEVER been a morning person, but the 'early to bed, early to rise' culture of Bangladesh schooling means that I get picked up for work at 6:45. I tell you what, those sorts of hours of the morning were NOT part of Gods perfect plan!!! On days when I sleep in, I leave for school at 7:15, to be in my classroom, doing final prep for the day by 7:30. The kids are brought to school on our fleet of school busses (basically just a set of vans) and they start to arrive at 7:45. The school day doesn't start until 8:15, but the kids are in the classroom early, finishing work from the previous day, reading, playing quiet games etc until the bell goes. Each day we have an assembly where the kids sing, pray and learn about God. These times are really special, the teachers take turns leading the assemblies and everyone has their own style. At the end of the day, when the cherubs have gone home I generally stay at school for a little while to do prep for the following day. We're very blessed in Dhaka to have a few western comforts like Internet and coffee shops - a lifesaver at the end of a long day!
What do you do aside from school? Are you able to relax?
Because there is such a large expatriate community in Bangladesh, there are many options for relaxation. There are 'clubs' people can join (There is an American club, Australian Club, Canadian club etc). These clubs provide respite, they are just a great place to hang out and unwind. The Australian club has a very laid-back feel, with a pool, tennis court, gym, bar, restaurant and tv area. Needless to say, escaping into the pool is a great way to waste an afternoon or 5 a week! Some of the bigger clubs have other things like dart competitions, pool tables etc which offer different relaxation! For those of us who are feminine and like to be pampered, there are eastern-run, Western-like salons, where getting your nails done is super cheap and a nice treat!
When are you moving back to Australia?
Ok guys, you can stop asking this question, because i quite simply DON'T have an answer for you! I'm contracted in Bangladesh until June 2011, and I don't know at this stage whether I will extend my contract, head back to Australia or move on somewhere else. When God makes the next move apparent, I promise I will tell people! But for the near future, the answer is 'Ami jani na' (I don't know - in Bangla!).
What's the best part about being in Bangladesh?
Without a doubt, the most pleasantly surprising thing about being in Bangladesh is the people who are now such an important part of my life. I now have friends spread out all over the world! It's amazing that God has intertwined so many lives through Grace International School. How else would I have met two Canadians, a wonderful friend from Northern Ireland, a ton of Bengali people who I love and numerous friends?!
What's the most confronting thing there?
Confrontation here can come at you from many fronts. What one person may find overwhelming isn't so bad for someone else. The thing that has shaken me more than anything here has been the immense poverty. That people need to beg in order to live astounds me. There are kids who were born on the streets, who work on the streets, grow up, learn to survive, and the shocking truth is that for most of them, that is the only life they will ever know.
Can you communicate while you're in Bangladesh?
You know what?! Skype is quite possibly the best invention ever! The beauty of Skype is unlimited. Between free phone calls and chat, free VIDEO calls are amazing and mean that even though I feel so far away from home, I'm still connected! Seriously, it's a free download! Add me - sydney.sweetheart ;)
As for the language-side of communication here, I'm very blessed that alot of people in Bangladesh speak enough English so that we can communicate! So, between their fumbled attempts at Engligh and my fumbled attempts at Banlga, we do just fine :)
If you have other questions, I'm more than happy to answer them! Fire away!
Kim xox
As usual, friends in Australia are asking all sorts of lovely questions, so I thought I'd stop and try to answer them as eloquently as possible:
What is Bangladesh like?
Well, in terms of climate, Bangladesh is what I imagine sitting in a drier that's 10 minutes into an hour cycle would be like. On the one hand, you're moist no matter where you are, and on the other hand it's flipping hot! I have a lovely little application on my laptop which keeps my up to date with the temperature and climate in Dhaka. At this current moment, it is 8 am in Bangladesh and it's already 30% with an added kick of 79% humidity. I really WISH I was kidding! Gees, the humidity is going to kill me next week! In other climate news, it's monsoon season at the moment, which means potential torrential rain, flooding and general blah-ness. Perhaps we'll have to head to school one day in boats rather than busses!
Why are you in Bangladesh?
This is a question that has so many long answers. The most straightforward response is this: I am in Bangladesh because God placed a calling on my life. I wasn't necessarily called to Bangladesh or teaching, I was called to live a life of genuine obedience, where I am challenged to do whatever God asks of me. It's something I have struggled with my whole life. Looking back, I now realise that there have been instances where I have not been obedient. I'm in Bangladesh as a teacher at a school that serves the mission families of Bangladesh by taking responsibility of the schooling of their children so that THEY can do what God has asked them to do without feeling any angst over the development or educational status of their children.
What does a 'normal' day look like for you in Bangladesh?
My day often starts by hitting the snooze button quite a few times! I have NEVER been a morning person, but the 'early to bed, early to rise' culture of Bangladesh schooling means that I get picked up for work at 6:45. I tell you what, those sorts of hours of the morning were NOT part of Gods perfect plan!!! On days when I sleep in, I leave for school at 7:15, to be in my classroom, doing final prep for the day by 7:30. The kids are brought to school on our fleet of school busses (basically just a set of vans) and they start to arrive at 7:45. The school day doesn't start until 8:15, but the kids are in the classroom early, finishing work from the previous day, reading, playing quiet games etc until the bell goes. Each day we have an assembly where the kids sing, pray and learn about God. These times are really special, the teachers take turns leading the assemblies and everyone has their own style. At the end of the day, when the cherubs have gone home I generally stay at school for a little while to do prep for the following day. We're very blessed in Dhaka to have a few western comforts like Internet and coffee shops - a lifesaver at the end of a long day!
What do you do aside from school? Are you able to relax?
Because there is such a large expatriate community in Bangladesh, there are many options for relaxation. There are 'clubs' people can join (There is an American club, Australian Club, Canadian club etc). These clubs provide respite, they are just a great place to hang out and unwind. The Australian club has a very laid-back feel, with a pool, tennis court, gym, bar, restaurant and tv area. Needless to say, escaping into the pool is a great way to waste an afternoon or 5 a week! Some of the bigger clubs have other things like dart competitions, pool tables etc which offer different relaxation! For those of us who are feminine and like to be pampered, there are eastern-run, Western-like salons, where getting your nails done is super cheap and a nice treat!
When are you moving back to Australia?
Ok guys, you can stop asking this question, because i quite simply DON'T have an answer for you! I'm contracted in Bangladesh until June 2011, and I don't know at this stage whether I will extend my contract, head back to Australia or move on somewhere else. When God makes the next move apparent, I promise I will tell people! But for the near future, the answer is 'Ami jani na' (I don't know - in Bangla!).
What's the best part about being in Bangladesh?
Without a doubt, the most pleasantly surprising thing about being in Bangladesh is the people who are now such an important part of my life. I now have friends spread out all over the world! It's amazing that God has intertwined so many lives through Grace International School. How else would I have met two Canadians, a wonderful friend from Northern Ireland, a ton of Bengali people who I love and numerous friends?!
What's the most confronting thing there?
Confrontation here can come at you from many fronts. What one person may find overwhelming isn't so bad for someone else. The thing that has shaken me more than anything here has been the immense poverty. That people need to beg in order to live astounds me. There are kids who were born on the streets, who work on the streets, grow up, learn to survive, and the shocking truth is that for most of them, that is the only life they will ever know.
Can you communicate while you're in Bangladesh?
You know what?! Skype is quite possibly the best invention ever! The beauty of Skype is unlimited. Between free phone calls and chat, free VIDEO calls are amazing and mean that even though I feel so far away from home, I'm still connected! Seriously, it's a free download! Add me - sydney.sweetheart ;)
As for the language-side of communication here, I'm very blessed that alot of people in Bangladesh speak enough English so that we can communicate! So, between their fumbled attempts at Engligh and my fumbled attempts at Banlga, we do just fine :)
If you have other questions, I'm more than happy to answer them! Fire away!
Kim xox
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Somewhere down the line
One day, the time will come when you realise that at some point, the dream ended and reality began. When that time comes, it hits you like a slap in the face, it wounds you in ways you didn't think anything could... and when it's done causing the pain that it can, it continues to spiral inside you, looking for a place to rest.
Please don't misunderstand me, dreams are beatiful, amazing and splendid things. I have never once doubted the place that dreams can have in a persons life (though, perhaps my dream of having perfect Disney-style hair was a tad unrealistic given that my hair has never failed to be unruly and frizzy at best). Dreams and idealisms give us the chance to look ahead and see something wonderful, and it often gives us the strength to strive towards such a goal.
I think that perhaps, that is enough from me tonight. I fear that if I write anymore, the fact that it is 2:30 am will hit fairly heavily...
Til the next instalment,
Kim xox
Please don't misunderstand me, dreams are beatiful, amazing and splendid things. I have never once doubted the place that dreams can have in a persons life (though, perhaps my dream of having perfect Disney-style hair was a tad unrealistic given that my hair has never failed to be unruly and frizzy at best). Dreams and idealisms give us the chance to look ahead and see something wonderful, and it often gives us the strength to strive towards such a goal.
I think that perhaps, that is enough from me tonight. I fear that if I write anymore, the fact that it is 2:30 am will hit fairly heavily...
Til the next instalment,
Kim xox
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Monday, October 25, 2010
Freedom!
Escaping out of Dhaka is just as it sounds... Escaping the noise, escaping the traffic, escaping the pollution, and est of all, just escaping the bloomin city!!! Last week, I made the roughly 10 hour journey from Dhaka to the Bandabarns, a distance of only about 200 kilometres... Yes, it takes ten hours... I KNOW!
The Bandabarns, located on the lower eastern border of Bangladesh, is a place where any who visit can somehow imagine themselves moving to. Yes, it's still in a third world country. Yes, facilities are limited. Yes, it is a long journey to get anywhere. Yes, it's on the side of a mountain. Yes, it's hot... But compared to Dhaka, it's a paradise, a place where you find yourself getting a high off just seeing hills... and trees... Oh the trees!
A week of trecking, visiting remote tribal villages, riding in the back on an open-top jeep, laughing and fellowship was just what the doctor-in-my-head ordered. If we could have been 'kidnapped' on the last day of the journey whithout making it look staged, Grace International School would have been at a loss, losing half it's staff to the call of the jungle. To be honest, we almost didn't make it back to Dhaka! The ride we thought we'd organised to get from the Bandabarns to our connecting bus at Chittagong didn't show up - proof that even in paradise there can be language barriers and misconceptions - and to say we were hopeful the situation couldn't be rectified is the biggest understatement of the year.
As mentioned, we got to spend some time in a tribal village! Wow, it was one of the coolest experiences of my life thus far! The Mru tribe live in the Bandabarns and have their own language, though from what I could tell, there were some similarities here and there in Bangla. The kids were adorable, and once I got past the fact that most of them are naked, I was able to see and experience a taste of what their life is like. From the tribal leader who spent the first five minutes joking around with us, saying (through giggles I'll have you know) that we should give him 10 taka for each photo we take (yeah like THAT was going to happen!), to the kids who so thoroughly enjoyed eating my tiny teddies, we all had so much fun! Krista even raced some of the kids from the outskirts of the village back into the borders! Ah-mazing times! The journey into and out of the village wasn't quite so fondly remembered, over 600 steps and beaten track each way (aah, the pain), but we figure that at least our butts might have been whipped into some semblance of a shape other than round!!
We even headed up to Chimbuk, which is the second highest peak in Bangladesh. We walked, we saw, and found a bunch of Bengali's who thought we were their equivalent of Jennifer Aniston (being that we have white skin and all that). Olivia, Krista and I climbed a tree. Olivia got stuck. Krista tried to be cool and leapt from said tree holding a branch and landed spectacularly on the ground with a thiud, so clearly, I'm the only one who can be truly trusted to act like a monkey and not be harmed in some way.
One morning, our guide said 'we should take a short walk down to the river'. Ok, said we. Surely a walk to a river will be walking down the hill with minimal effort. WRONG! We were not walking down a path to get to the river... We were trecking... Honest to goodness trecking, in the middle of a flipping JUNGLE! Vines, check. Streams, check. Banana plants, check. Weird bugs, check (Josh and Sam, our Science teachers had the time of their lives!). Heat, check. Unbearable amount of sweat, check. Humidity so high you're sure you need a snorkel, check. Rocks, check, Mountains, check. Moss, check. Leeches, check (on my food, nasty litte blighter!). Once at aforesaid river, our guide arranged for two boats passing by to take us into town. That hour-long journey was gorgeous. We passed by small town, some villages, a boat packed with what I can only explain could have been an under 12's soccer team and everyone they'd ever met...
The Bandabarns reminded me that wherever you are, there are going to be some highlights, and some lowlights. Right now, Dhaka is one of the lowlights, but just knowing that such beauty exists outside the city is enough to keep me going til the next break!!! Unto the brech!!
Kim xox
The Bandabarns, located on the lower eastern border of Bangladesh, is a place where any who visit can somehow imagine themselves moving to. Yes, it's still in a third world country. Yes, facilities are limited. Yes, it is a long journey to get anywhere. Yes, it's on the side of a mountain. Yes, it's hot... But compared to Dhaka, it's a paradise, a place where you find yourself getting a high off just seeing hills... and trees... Oh the trees!
A week of trecking, visiting remote tribal villages, riding in the back on an open-top jeep, laughing and fellowship was just what the doctor-in-my-head ordered. If we could have been 'kidnapped' on the last day of the journey whithout making it look staged, Grace International School would have been at a loss, losing half it's staff to the call of the jungle. To be honest, we almost didn't make it back to Dhaka! The ride we thought we'd organised to get from the Bandabarns to our connecting bus at Chittagong didn't show up - proof that even in paradise there can be language barriers and misconceptions - and to say we were hopeful the situation couldn't be rectified is the biggest understatement of the year.
As mentioned, we got to spend some time in a tribal village! Wow, it was one of the coolest experiences of my life thus far! The Mru tribe live in the Bandabarns and have their own language, though from what I could tell, there were some similarities here and there in Bangla. The kids were adorable, and once I got past the fact that most of them are naked, I was able to see and experience a taste of what their life is like. From the tribal leader who spent the first five minutes joking around with us, saying (through giggles I'll have you know) that we should give him 10 taka for each photo we take (yeah like THAT was going to happen!), to the kids who so thoroughly enjoyed eating my tiny teddies, we all had so much fun! Krista even raced some of the kids from the outskirts of the village back into the borders! Ah-mazing times! The journey into and out of the village wasn't quite so fondly remembered, over 600 steps and beaten track each way (aah, the pain), but we figure that at least our butts might have been whipped into some semblance of a shape other than round!!
We even headed up to Chimbuk, which is the second highest peak in Bangladesh. We walked, we saw, and found a bunch of Bengali's who thought we were their equivalent of Jennifer Aniston (being that we have white skin and all that). Olivia, Krista and I climbed a tree. Olivia got stuck. Krista tried to be cool and leapt from said tree holding a branch and landed spectacularly on the ground with a thiud, so clearly, I'm the only one who can be truly trusted to act like a monkey and not be harmed in some way.
One morning, our guide said 'we should take a short walk down to the river'. Ok, said we. Surely a walk to a river will be walking down the hill with minimal effort. WRONG! We were not walking down a path to get to the river... We were trecking... Honest to goodness trecking, in the middle of a flipping JUNGLE! Vines, check. Streams, check. Banana plants, check. Weird bugs, check (Josh and Sam, our Science teachers had the time of their lives!). Heat, check. Unbearable amount of sweat, check. Humidity so high you're sure you need a snorkel, check. Rocks, check, Mountains, check. Moss, check. Leeches, check (on my food, nasty litte blighter!). Once at aforesaid river, our guide arranged for two boats passing by to take us into town. That hour-long journey was gorgeous. We passed by small town, some villages, a boat packed with what I can only explain could have been an under 12's soccer team and everyone they'd ever met...
The Bandabarns reminded me that wherever you are, there are going to be some highlights, and some lowlights. Right now, Dhaka is one of the lowlights, but just knowing that such beauty exists outside the city is enough to keep me going til the next break!!! Unto the brech!!
Kim xox
Saturday, October 16, 2010
The journey... begins?
Nothing quite beats walking down the street seeing goats heads sitting neatly in a line, completely body-less... That's just one of the charming sights Krista and I encountered yesterday as we walked the 15 minute or so journey from one shop to another on our Dhaka journeys yesterday. The fact that I didn't throw up then and there is a testiment to just how much life for me has changed in the past 18 months. The journey started 542 days ago with a simple e-mail from Grace International School... And now look where I am, I KNEW checking e-mails and being tech savvy would have it's drawback at some stage!!! I'm kidding, of course!
Later today I am heading out of Dhaka - Whoop whoop!!! Of course, getting out of the the hustle and bustle is amazing, except for the death trap that is ANY vehicle in Dhaka... This will be my fifth and sixth journey on a Bengali 'coach' style bus, and this time, I'm doing it in style, executive seats, baby! Of course, it just means when we are all thrown through the windscreen to our death, I'll be one of the first to black out, but hey, that's why we pay just that little extra, right?? I'm yet to die on the roads here, I highly doubt that God would bring me all this way just to see my life end in such a way... *fingers crossed*
Looking forward to sharing some good stories when I return!!! Til then, here's a hug and a kiss or two to tide you over... xox
Later today I am heading out of Dhaka - Whoop whoop!!! Of course, getting out of the the hustle and bustle is amazing, except for the death trap that is ANY vehicle in Dhaka... This will be my fifth and sixth journey on a Bengali 'coach' style bus, and this time, I'm doing it in style, executive seats, baby! Of course, it just means when we are all thrown through the windscreen to our death, I'll be one of the first to black out, but hey, that's why we pay just that little extra, right?? I'm yet to die on the roads here, I highly doubt that God would bring me all this way just to see my life end in such a way... *fingers crossed*
Looking forward to sharing some good stories when I return!!! Til then, here's a hug and a kiss or two to tide you over... xox
Sunday, October 10, 2010
13 going on 30...
Today was hard, the beginning of week 10, in a 10 week term, need I say more?! After our weekly staff morning, I decided to hunker down and get a load of work done (which as usual was when my procrastination and feeling of weariness kicked in). You may ask, what is the cure for such an afternoon? Why, The Aussie club, of course!
Life always seems a little better after a swim and dinner at the Aussie club!! Spending time with friends out of the Dhaka context is always nice! Leaving the club to get home, however, is always a slight shock as one readjusts to the South East Asian culture. Like tonight, for example, when I got onto a rickshaw.
My rickshaw wallah (ie: the person who drives the rickshaw) was tiny. Upon the extensive conversation that could take place with his broken english and my 'kaup karap' (Bangla for 'very bad') Bangla, I learned the following things: His name was something my vocal chords and lack of Bangladeshi accent would never be able to pronounce, he was 13, he was working to support his mother, father and two younger brothers... And this was only his second day on the job. He was delighted to share bits and pieces of information (in just two day's work he had earned 502 taka!!) and seemed to like the fact that I lived near my friends (Krista and Esther who who on another rickshaw a little in front of his).
One thing I'll say for Bangladesh - It gives you perspective. Whether you like that perspective or not, it's there, just in front of your face. When I was 13 I was dealing with the fact that I only got between $10 and $20 pocket money. That's more than alot of people here earn in a month. When I was 13 I complained because I didn't want to eat brussel sprouts (actually, I still complain about that). There are people who would gladly eat brussels sprouts here... Out of the rubbish tip... When I was 13 I didn't like having homework. Here, the majority of the population wouldn't even be able to read homework if it was given to them. When I was 13 I wanted Billabong clothes. People here are happy to have a scrap of material to call their own. When I was 13 I complained about the comfort level of my pillow. People here sleep on the street, no bed, no pillow...
Aah, equality. I'm not so sure you exsist...
Monday, October 4, 2010
And so... It has well and truly been a while!
If I get 'How you doin'd' or 'wow'd' once more on a rickshaw in the coming weeks, someone is going to be shot... Here's a tip, random Bengali-man-that-I-don't-know - when I smile, that is NOT an invitation for you to assume I'm yours. I'm just saying.
On another note, I'm all booked - Australia for Christmas! AND, just as exciting as that news, I'll be dragging the ever-lovely Esther with me!!! I'm so blessed to be able to head home for the celebrations! The only thing is that I now have to save every penny to pay for my flights and figure out how I'm going to squeeze in seeing everyone that I possibly can!
Things in my classroom are busy (seriously, when are they NOT?!), but we're having so much fun! This year, for our 'Where in the World' topic, we've been taking magic carpet rides to various countries and then learning about them through activities. Today we strapped ourself onto the Magic carpet (ie: the carpet that happens to be in our room) and headed off to Romania. We studied atlasses and labelled maps then had a chance to decorate Horezo Roosters, a design that features heavily in Romanian pottery. We decided that instead of using pottery we would copy the original design onto transparencies and then use glass paints to decorate them. Needless to say, I had childrens hands covered in paint, but hey, none of them tried to eat it, so that's a bonus!
Maths has been a joy to teach this year so far, getting kids hyped up on M&M's for division 'sharing' problems. The only downside is that M&M's are imported here, so they cost an absolute bomb... Totally worth it now that my kids can divide with very few hassles!
This year, I'm the official 'Music Co-ordinator' for our campass, which has been challenging as I didn't even teach Music to my own class last year. Despite the bumps that I've felt, navigating through the music program currently in use in the school, I've been enjoying imparting my musical knowledge. I've even got Year 3 reading basic notation, something they aren't really meant to be exposed to until year 4 - Huzzah for the advanced kidletts!! I'm also teaching years 2 and 4, which has been a blast, getting to know quite a few kids I didn't really have anything to do with last year. The next big project for me is to start organising our Christmas productions - Eek! In theory, this should be a stress-free excercise, but we all know it wont be, I'm involved!!!!
My year 3's have been writing stories lately, which has kept me amused! Everything from pirates chasing after treasure, children finding hidden doors to other lands and times (not Narnia though, whether you believe it or not), and super hero's with sonic-blasters. My bunch have avid imaginations!!
I've decided to incorporate as many of the resources I made at college this year, so our 'Circle Time' has been based on the values in the NSW Board of Studies curriculum (luckily things like that translate to pretty much any school anywhere!), so we've been meeting some 'friends' including 'Careful Courtney', "Excellent Edward' and 'Respectful Rachel'. The kids are so excited to meet all the toehr characters, we only just started the program and have been learning about each character and value one week at a time. It has been a great way of teaching the kids about what the Bible has to say about how we treat one another.
I've officially made myself settled at my new abode and am loving living with Shannon, another crazy Canadian! She has been such an encouragement to me, and most amazingly, she think's I'm the bees knees!! It's been great spending time with all the newbies too (though, I think they're all veterans now). We're all in the middle of trying to organise our October break plans. So far, I think I'll end up staying in Dhaka, I'm trying to save money for when I'm home over Christmas, and the general cost that that brings. I'm trying to sort out a hens night for Kylie, going to be mega fun! I'm also flying to Brisbane for Jamie and Caths wedding - all wonderful things that require a little bit of moolah!
Ok, I think that's enough information for now!!! Hope everyone is well! Drop me a line if you've got a few moments to spare! miss_k_stevens@hotmail.com
Kim xox
On another note, I'm all booked - Australia for Christmas! AND, just as exciting as that news, I'll be dragging the ever-lovely Esther with me!!! I'm so blessed to be able to head home for the celebrations! The only thing is that I now have to save every penny to pay for my flights and figure out how I'm going to squeeze in seeing everyone that I possibly can!
Things in my classroom are busy (seriously, when are they NOT?!), but we're having so much fun! This year, for our 'Where in the World' topic, we've been taking magic carpet rides to various countries and then learning about them through activities. Today we strapped ourself onto the Magic carpet (ie: the carpet that happens to be in our room) and headed off to Romania. We studied atlasses and labelled maps then had a chance to decorate Horezo Roosters, a design that features heavily in Romanian pottery. We decided that instead of using pottery we would copy the original design onto transparencies and then use glass paints to decorate them. Needless to say, I had childrens hands covered in paint, but hey, none of them tried to eat it, so that's a bonus!
Maths has been a joy to teach this year so far, getting kids hyped up on M&M's for division 'sharing' problems. The only downside is that M&M's are imported here, so they cost an absolute bomb... Totally worth it now that my kids can divide with very few hassles!
This year, I'm the official 'Music Co-ordinator' for our campass, which has been challenging as I didn't even teach Music to my own class last year. Despite the bumps that I've felt, navigating through the music program currently in use in the school, I've been enjoying imparting my musical knowledge. I've even got Year 3 reading basic notation, something they aren't really meant to be exposed to until year 4 - Huzzah for the advanced kidletts!! I'm also teaching years 2 and 4, which has been a blast, getting to know quite a few kids I didn't really have anything to do with last year. The next big project for me is to start organising our Christmas productions - Eek! In theory, this should be a stress-free excercise, but we all know it wont be, I'm involved!!!!
My year 3's have been writing stories lately, which has kept me amused! Everything from pirates chasing after treasure, children finding hidden doors to other lands and times (not Narnia though, whether you believe it or not), and super hero's with sonic-blasters. My bunch have avid imaginations!!
I've decided to incorporate as many of the resources I made at college this year, so our 'Circle Time' has been based on the values in the NSW Board of Studies curriculum (luckily things like that translate to pretty much any school anywhere!), so we've been meeting some 'friends' including 'Careful Courtney', "Excellent Edward' and 'Respectful Rachel'. The kids are so excited to meet all the toehr characters, we only just started the program and have been learning about each character and value one week at a time. It has been a great way of teaching the kids about what the Bible has to say about how we treat one another.
I've officially made myself settled at my new abode and am loving living with Shannon, another crazy Canadian! She has been such an encouragement to me, and most amazingly, she think's I'm the bees knees!! It's been great spending time with all the newbies too (though, I think they're all veterans now). We're all in the middle of trying to organise our October break plans. So far, I think I'll end up staying in Dhaka, I'm trying to save money for when I'm home over Christmas, and the general cost that that brings. I'm trying to sort out a hens night for Kylie, going to be mega fun! I'm also flying to Brisbane for Jamie and Caths wedding - all wonderful things that require a little bit of moolah!
Ok, I think that's enough information for now!!! Hope everyone is well! Drop me a line if you've got a few moments to spare! miss_k_stevens@hotmail.com
Kim xox
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Leave it to... someone else!
If the past week has taught me anything, it is that Gods timing is the only timing that means anything. Between visa's, flights, plans and expectations, there are very few things that have gone according to my perceived timing. It seems to have happeneed that way to all of the Grace staff of late. Perhaps the Devil knows exactly where to hit us at this point. Perhaps he thinks if he strikes now, he stops the wonderful and awesome plans of the one true God. I, as usual, have no concise answers...
So, my crazy journey back to Bangladesh started in Sydney airport, where Cathay Pacific were reluctant to let me go due to my Bangladesh visa expiring soon. I guess they were doing the right thing, making sure I wouldn't be deported from Bangladesh at their costs. It didn't seem to matter how much I explained how Bangladesh operates, they didn't want me getting on that plane! Eventually, they let me sign some forms and they let me onto the plane... Then, mid-air to Hong Kong, one of the flight attendants comes and talks to me about it all again, making sure I understood that if anything happened, it was my problem not theirs. Hong Kong airport was a drama all its' own. My flight from their to Dhaka was scheduled to leave at 18:05. By 7.45 they still hadn't posted what gate the flight was laving from! As I was boarding, I was tackled with visa questions again!! Once on the flight, all was well, thank goodness! Dhaka airport, oh dhaka airport! They took my passport away for a little while after telling me 'Ok, Madam' when I told them I was about to reapply for my visa. Luckily, they brought the passport back and then let me into the country!!!! AMEN!
Now that I am back and settling into things, I've been provided with yet more evidence that Bangladesh, like God, works on it's own timetable... The difference between the two, however, is that when God promises something, it happens!!!!!
Til the next instalment,
K xx
So, my crazy journey back to Bangladesh started in Sydney airport, where Cathay Pacific were reluctant to let me go due to my Bangladesh visa expiring soon. I guess they were doing the right thing, making sure I wouldn't be deported from Bangladesh at their costs. It didn't seem to matter how much I explained how Bangladesh operates, they didn't want me getting on that plane! Eventually, they let me sign some forms and they let me onto the plane... Then, mid-air to Hong Kong, one of the flight attendants comes and talks to me about it all again, making sure I understood that if anything happened, it was my problem not theirs. Hong Kong airport was a drama all its' own. My flight from their to Dhaka was scheduled to leave at 18:05. By 7.45 they still hadn't posted what gate the flight was laving from! As I was boarding, I was tackled with visa questions again!! Once on the flight, all was well, thank goodness! Dhaka airport, oh dhaka airport! They took my passport away for a little while after telling me 'Ok, Madam' when I told them I was about to reapply for my visa. Luckily, they brought the passport back and then let me into the country!!!! AMEN!
Now that I am back and settling into things, I've been provided with yet more evidence that Bangladesh, like God, works on it's own timetable... The difference between the two, however, is that when God promises something, it happens!!!!!
Til the next instalment,
K xx
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Q and A
20kg... 20kg! It's hard to fit your life into a suitcase, when all you are allowed is 20kg! I guess that this time around, I'm not moving my whole life over to Bangladesh, as I did last year, which is an upside. I am, however, stuck in an endless cycle of 'What is going to be most useful, Gumboots for the flooding or sheet music for my sanity?'... As usual, I think that the music will win the battle!
As usual, friends in Australia are asking all sorts of lovely questions, so I thought I'd stop and try to answer them as eloquently as possible:
What is Bangladesh like?
Well, in terms of climate, Bangladesh is what I imagine sitting in a drier that's 10 minutes into an hour cycle would be like. On the one hand, you're moist no matter where you are, and on the other hand it's flipping hot! I have a lovely little application on my laptop which keeps my up to date with the temperature and climate in Dhaka. At this current moment, it is 8 am in Bangladesh and it's already 30% with an added kick of 79% humidity. I really WISH I was kidding! Gees, the humidity is going to kill me next week! In other climate news, it's monsoon season at the moment, which means potential torrential rain, flooding and general blah-ness. Perhaps we'll have to head to school one day in boats rather than busses!
Why are you in Bangladesh?
This is a question that has so many long answers. The most straightforward response is this: I am in Bangladesh because God placed a calling on my life. I wasn't necessarily called to Bangladesh or teaching, I was called to live a life of genuine obedience, where I am challenged to do whatever God asks of me. It's something I have struggled with my whole life. Looking back, I now realise that there have been instances where I have not been obedient. I'm in Bangladesh as a teacher at a school that serves the mission families of Bangladesh by taking responsibility of the schooling of their children so that THEY can do what God has asked them to do without feeling any angst over the development or educational status of their children.
What does a 'normal' day look like for you in Bangladesh?
My day often starts by hitting the snooze button quite a few times! I have NEVER been a morning person, but the 'early to bed, early to rise' culture of Bangladesh schooling means that I get picked up for work at 6:45. I tell you what, those sorts of hours of the morning were NOT part of Gods perfect plan!!! On days when I sleep in, I leave for school at 7:15, to be in my classroom, doing final prep for the day by 7:30. The kids are brought to school on our fleet of school busses (basically just a set of vans) and they start to arrive at 7:45. The school day doesn't start until 8:15, but the kids are in the classroom early, finishing work from the previous day, reading, playing quiet games etc until the bell goes. Each day we have an assembly where the kids sing, pray and learn about God. These times are really special, the teachers take turns leading the assemblies and everyone has their own style. At the end of the day, when the cherubs have gone home I generally stay at school for a little while to do prep for the following day. We're very blessed in Dhaka to have a few western comforts like Internet and coffee shops - a lifesaver at the end of a long day!
What do you do aside from school? Are you able to relax?
Because there is such a large expatriate community in Bangladesh, there are many options for relaxation. There are 'clubs' people can join (There is an American club, Australian Club, Canadian club etc). These clubs provide respite, they are just a great place to hang out and unwind. The Australian club has a very laid-back feel, with a pool, tennis court, gym, bar, restaurant and tv area. Needless to say, escaping into the pool is a great way to waste an afternoon or 5 a week! Some of the bigger clubs have other things like dart competitions, pool tables etc which offer different relaxation! For those of us who are feminine and like to be pampered, there are eastern-run, Western-like salons, where getting your nails done is super cheap and a nice treat!
When are you moving back to Australia?
Ok guys, you can stop asking this question, because i quite simply DON'T have an answer for you! I'm contracted in Bangladesh until June 2011, and I don't know at this stage whether I will extend my contract, head back to Australia or move on somewhere else. When God makes the next move apparent, I promise I will tell people! But for the near future, the answer is 'Ami jani na' (I don't know - in Bangla!).
What's the best part about being in Bangladesh?
Without a doubt, the most pleasantly surprising thing about being in Bangladesh is the people who are now such an important part of my life. I now have friends spread out all over the world! It's amazing that God has intertwined so many lives through Grace International School. How else would I have met two Canadians, a wonderful friend from Northern Ireland, a ton of Bengali people who I love and numerous friends?!
What's the most confronting thing there?
Confrontation here can come at you from many fronts. What one person may find overwhelming isn't so bad for someone else. The thing that has shaken me more than anything here has been the immense poverty. That people need to beg in order to live astounds me. There are kids who were born on the streets, who work on the streets, grow up, learn to survive, and the shocking truth is that for most of them, that is the only life they will ever know.
Can you communicate while you're in Bangladesh?
You know what?! Skype is quite possibly the best invention ever! The beauty of Skype is unlimited. Between free phone calls and chat, free VIDEO calls are amazing and mean that even though I feel so far away from home, I'm still connected! Seriously, it's a free download! Add me - sydney.sweetheart ;)
As for the language-side of communication here, I'm very blessed that alot of people in Bangladesh speak enough English so that we can communicate! So, between their fumbled attempts at Engligh and my fumbled attempts at Banlga, we do just fine :)
If you have other questions, I'm more than happy to answer them! Fire away!
Kim xox
As usual, friends in Australia are asking all sorts of lovely questions, so I thought I'd stop and try to answer them as eloquently as possible:
What is Bangladesh like?
Well, in terms of climate, Bangladesh is what I imagine sitting in a drier that's 10 minutes into an hour cycle would be like. On the one hand, you're moist no matter where you are, and on the other hand it's flipping hot! I have a lovely little application on my laptop which keeps my up to date with the temperature and climate in Dhaka. At this current moment, it is 8 am in Bangladesh and it's already 30% with an added kick of 79% humidity. I really WISH I was kidding! Gees, the humidity is going to kill me next week! In other climate news, it's monsoon season at the moment, which means potential torrential rain, flooding and general blah-ness. Perhaps we'll have to head to school one day in boats rather than busses!
Why are you in Bangladesh?
This is a question that has so many long answers. The most straightforward response is this: I am in Bangladesh because God placed a calling on my life. I wasn't necessarily called to Bangladesh or teaching, I was called to live a life of genuine obedience, where I am challenged to do whatever God asks of me. It's something I have struggled with my whole life. Looking back, I now realise that there have been instances where I have not been obedient. I'm in Bangladesh as a teacher at a school that serves the mission families of Bangladesh by taking responsibility of the schooling of their children so that THEY can do what God has asked them to do without feeling any angst over the development or educational status of their children.
What does a 'normal' day look like for you in Bangladesh?
My day often starts by hitting the snooze button quite a few times! I have NEVER been a morning person, but the 'early to bed, early to rise' culture of Bangladesh schooling means that I get picked up for work at 6:45. I tell you what, those sorts of hours of the morning were NOT part of Gods perfect plan!!! On days when I sleep in, I leave for school at 7:15, to be in my classroom, doing final prep for the day by 7:30. The kids are brought to school on our fleet of school busses (basically just a set of vans) and they start to arrive at 7:45. The school day doesn't start until 8:15, but the kids are in the classroom early, finishing work from the previous day, reading, playing quiet games etc until the bell goes. Each day we have an assembly where the kids sing, pray and learn about God. These times are really special, the teachers take turns leading the assemblies and everyone has their own style. At the end of the day, when the cherubs have gone home I generally stay at school for a little while to do prep for the following day. We're very blessed in Dhaka to have a few western comforts like Internet and coffee shops - a lifesaver at the end of a long day!
What do you do aside from school? Are you able to relax?
Because there is such a large expatriate community in Bangladesh, there are many options for relaxation. There are 'clubs' people can join (There is an American club, Australian Club, Canadian club etc). These clubs provide respite, they are just a great place to hang out and unwind. The Australian club has a very laid-back feel, with a pool, tennis court, gym, bar, restaurant and tv area. Needless to say, escaping into the pool is a great way to waste an afternoon or 5 a week! Some of the bigger clubs have other things like dart competitions, pool tables etc which offer different relaxation! For those of us who are feminine and like to be pampered, there are eastern-run, Western-like salons, where getting your nails done is super cheap and a nice treat!
When are you moving back to Australia?
Ok guys, you can stop asking this question, because i quite simply DON'T have an answer for you! I'm contracted in Bangladesh until June 2011, and I don't know at this stage whether I will extend my contract, head back to Australia or move on somewhere else. When God makes the next move apparent, I promise I will tell people! But for the near future, the answer is 'Ami jani na' (I don't know - in Bangla!).
What's the best part about being in Bangladesh?
Without a doubt, the most pleasantly surprising thing about being in Bangladesh is the people who are now such an important part of my life. I now have friends spread out all over the world! It's amazing that God has intertwined so many lives through Grace International School. How else would I have met two Canadians, a wonderful friend from Northern Ireland, a ton of Bengali people who I love and numerous friends?!
What's the most confronting thing there?
Confrontation here can come at you from many fronts. What one person may find overwhelming isn't so bad for someone else. The thing that has shaken me more than anything here has been the immense poverty. That people need to beg in order to live astounds me. There are kids who were born on the streets, who work on the streets, grow up, learn to survive, and the shocking truth is that for most of them, that is the only life they will ever know.
Can you communicate while you're in Bangladesh?
You know what?! Skype is quite possibly the best invention ever! The beauty of Skype is unlimited. Between free phone calls and chat, free VIDEO calls are amazing and mean that even though I feel so far away from home, I'm still connected! Seriously, it's a free download! Add me - sydney.sweetheart ;)
As for the language-side of communication here, I'm very blessed that alot of people in Bangladesh speak enough English so that we can communicate! So, between their fumbled attempts at Engligh and my fumbled attempts at Banlga, we do just fine :)
If you have other questions, I'm more than happy to answer them! Fire away!
Kim xox
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Somewhere down the line
One day, the time will come when you realise that at some point, the dream ended and reality began. When that time comes, it hits you like a slap in the face, it wounds you in ways you didn't think anything could... and when it's done causing the pain that it can, it continues to spiral inside you, looking for a place to rest.
Please don't misunderstand me, dreams are beatiful, amazing and splendid things. I have never once doubted the place that dreams can have in a persons life (though, perhaps my dream of having perfect Disney-style hair was a tad unrealistic given that my hair has never failed to be unruly and frizzy at best). Dreams and idealisms give us the chance to look ahead and see something wonderful, and it often gives us the strength to strive towards such a goal.
I think that perhaps, that is enough from me tonight. I fear that if I write anymore, the fact that it is 2:30 am will hit fairly heavily...
Til the next instalment,
Kim xox
Please don't misunderstand me, dreams are beatiful, amazing and splendid things. I have never once doubted the place that dreams can have in a persons life (though, perhaps my dream of having perfect Disney-style hair was a tad unrealistic given that my hair has never failed to be unruly and frizzy at best). Dreams and idealisms give us the chance to look ahead and see something wonderful, and it often gives us the strength to strive towards such a goal.
I think that perhaps, that is enough from me tonight. I fear that if I write anymore, the fact that it is 2:30 am will hit fairly heavily...
Til the next instalment,
Kim xox
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