Nurse to Wanna – be English Teacher?
This is our second month in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Last month every day during the week, Tyson and I would go to Mr. Ross’s School for the Orphans and the Poor Children of Siem Reap, Cambodia to teach English. And this month we get to go back again! It is the highlight of my day, to see Makara, Rigony, Bon Rith, Schrema, Ly, Kotouer and Packdi, and all the other students. These are a few of the names I have been able to remember, but there are so many more I want learn! They give their love, hugs, notes and flowers away so freely.
When we arrive we are usually greeted by multiple ” Hello, how are you?” and hugs, and if it is a good day, the little ones are there to play with! Then around 5pm we start our two classes. Tyson takes the older ones, while I take the smaller ones. Every day I greet them with, “Good Afternoon class” they always respond with “Good afternoon teacher” in a slow monotone chorus. I love the ritual.I am surprised at how much I enjoy teaching English, coming from a nursing background. My twin sister, Cara, and her husband, Tim, are teachers and I tell them maybe I should join the club! (jokingly) 🙂 It is amazing the impact they have on the upcoming generations as teachers. I respect them and all the teachers I know immensely! This is my shout out for all the teachers who persevere through the hard times, knowing they are making such a difference. I believe the impact of love is immeasurable, even in our short two months here! And I believe the majority of us will never know our impact until we reach heaven. May we continue to impact those around us with Love, whether we see the results of it or not.
The kids are always excited to come up to the board and spell something out, or say something in front of the class. I’m wondering if I have an abnormal amount of student participation! Kids smiling at me, standing, stretching their raised arm as far as they can . . . screaming for it to be there turn. I try to enforce the rule that you have to be sitting quietly to be called on, but when they are so excited, it’s hard! I w
ant to call on each one who is freaking out. 🙂
ant to call on each one who is freaking out. 🙂
Every day Mr. Ross welcomes us with a cold bottle of water from his little red ice chest. He lately has had trouble with a fish bone stuck in his throat that became infected. I was very concerned, so we were able to leave an anonymous gift for him to go see a doctor and he is doing so much better. His mother was also sick this past week, and we were able to pray for her. We want to show this family love; they are showing love to children all across Cambodia. Mr. Ross has started many schools for the poor in all parts of Cambodia. What a life changing opportunity for each little one!
Mr. Ross and some of his students in front of the school
Katouer and her beautiful smile!
Schrema and me in our classroom
Girls in all countries love to twirl! 🙂
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! If you enjoy reading about people like Mr. Ross and what I am up to during my 7 months left on The World Race, feel free to type in your email address in the “Subscribe for Blog Updates” on the left had column.
Love and Blessings,
Christina
