I don't think I really knew what generosity was until I moved down here. In describing the people here, the adjective that keeps coming up is generous. I really wish you all could come down and visit, because experiencing this culture, for me, has been truly amazing so far.
The principals from EAB (the school) have been so generous with their time-- they have taken us to so many amazing restaurants, going out of their way to take us on errands, and taking time out of their crazy schedules to make sure that our transition is going smoothly. Andrea, the Lower Elementary Principal-- offered to give us some essentials for our apartment to borrow while we are down here. She came by with a large basket full of stuff that is so great to have in the apartment, but we couldn't justify buying for the short amount of time we would have been here. It's almost humbling to be constantly receiving this kindness, when we don't have much to offer in return.
Andrea was telling me that the families of EAB students might invite me to dinner, and its in their nature to be very warm and compassionate and giving. "You might wonder, what's the catch? But their is no catch. Brazilians just love to be generous."
It has been such a gift to receive this generousity this past week. Knowing how much it has blessed me, I hope that I can foster this generous spirit. They love to give, and they give extravagantly without hidden motives. To them people are the important thing and they love enjoying life together. How beautiful.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
In the Swing of things
This morning the new teachers met with all staff that is here. We had a delicious breakfast and had a short session to talk about the broad picture mission statement of the school. I'm really excited because I feel that the school's philosophy really aligns with what I believe is important. Also, time and again I am seeing how much the school really values investing in their staff. This is such a supportive environment in which to student teach! Everyone has been so incredibly warm and welcoming.
This weekend, the administration showed us the meaning of hospitality as they showed us around, gave us tips on living in Brasilia, took us to the Brazilian version of Walmart called "Extra", and took us to the most amazing restaurants! Now this week we are starting to be introduced to the school. I feel so lucky to be a part of this orientation process, and as we don't have our own classrooms, Jana and I have a bit more down time. We are hoping to be able to help the other teachers get settled into their classrooms and maybe help make some bulletin boards.
Thank you all for all your support and thoughts! Talk to you soon.
This weekend, the administration showed us the meaning of hospitality as they showed us around, gave us tips on living in Brasilia, took us to the Brazilian version of Walmart called "Extra", and took us to the most amazing restaurants! Now this week we are starting to be introduced to the school. I feel so lucky to be a part of this orientation process, and as we don't have our own classrooms, Jana and I have a bit more down time. We are hoping to be able to help the other teachers get settled into their classrooms and maybe help make some bulletin boards.
Thank you all for all your support and thoughts! Talk to you soon.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Here I am! In Brazil!
Hello from Brazil! That’s right! I made it safely to the beautiful city of Brasilia this morning at 8 in the morning. I keep on thinking-- is this real?? Am I actually sitting in my apartment in Brazil, catching up on email and settling in to live here for 5 months?? Someone pinch me!!!
Once Jana and I got through customs (a surprisingly easy process!) all of the administrative staff was there to greet us—many hugs and warm introductions were given. We felt so welcome and so well taken care of! They really helped us feel at ease right away in this new home of ours! While we had a quick tour of the school and breakfast, someone whisked away our luggage and later, when we were shown to apartment—there it was waiting for us!
The city is very unique—an engineer must have designed it—because it’s very logically laid out. Our apartment is about a 15 minute walk away from the school. It’s a very cute apartment, including a kitchenette, 2 bedrooms, a living room area, and maid’s quarters (!) Although the people from the school keep apologizing for the weather, it being the dry season, I can’t figure out what there is to apologize about—clear skies, perfect temperatures, and NOT humid!
As of right now, I’m feeling great! I feel at peace about this and I am very excited about the prospect of getting to spend 5 months in this beautiful city! (Granted, right now it seems a bit like a vacation, but I’m rollin’ with this good feeling!)
After walking around our neighborhood just a bit, Jana and I came back to rest before we meet up with the other teachers for dinner. I think we’ll be headed to bed early tonight!!!
Once Jana and I got through customs (a surprisingly easy process!) all of the administrative staff was there to greet us—many hugs and warm introductions were given. We felt so welcome and so well taken care of! They really helped us feel at ease right away in this new home of ours! While we had a quick tour of the school and breakfast, someone whisked away our luggage and later, when we were shown to apartment—there it was waiting for us!
The city is very unique—an engineer must have designed it—because it’s very logically laid out. Our apartment is about a 15 minute walk away from the school. It’s a very cute apartment, including a kitchenette, 2 bedrooms, a living room area, and maid’s quarters (!) Although the people from the school keep apologizing for the weather, it being the dry season, I can’t figure out what there is to apologize about—clear skies, perfect temperatures, and NOT humid!
As of right now, I’m feeling great! I feel at peace about this and I am very excited about the prospect of getting to spend 5 months in this beautiful city! (Granted, right now it seems a bit like a vacation, but I’m rollin’ with this good feeling!)
After walking around our neighborhood just a bit, Jana and I came back to rest before we meet up with the other teachers for dinner. I think we’ll be headed to bed early tonight!!!
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