Today was another day of firsts. First sighting and tour of
the school (like a chump, I forgot my camera), first introductions to faculty and staff, first brief look at my
course load, first Haitian bank account, first trip to the grocery store, first
time handling Haitian Gourdes (local currency), first home-cooked meal in our
apartment, first (sweet, sweet) glass of wine…you’re catching on I’m sure.
On this big day, I felt a bit like I was riding a roller
coaster. Usually, I’m a big fan of roller coasters; the slow lurching climb,
the hollow-stomach sensation before you pitch over the apex and your heart is
jammed up your throat, from which a shriek is ripped by the sheer thrill of the
experience. This was not akin to that feeling in the least. Today, I was riding
the Wild Mouse. You know that stupid ride with the tiny little sardine can-size
cars you cram yourself into, voluntarily inducing claustrophobia, only to rap
your knees and elbows on every tight turn and jarring drop, and leave feeling
slightly nauseous and light-headed? Ugh. One minute I was over the moon with my
awesome course load, the next I was devastated by the lack of a white board in
my classroom. I was thrilled at the supportiveness of the school’s leadership team,
then totally discouraged by the Haitian banking system.
Despite the wild ride today, I’m feeling really good about
my decision to come to Haiti. I know it’s an adjustment (or 2…) but it’s always
been in my nature to want to rush the process. Thank god Ashley is here with me
and we can air our grievances in private to each other, share in the triumph
and awe of the moment, and throw each other worried glances when we find
ourselves totally out of our element!
For those of you who are interested, I am teaching the
following:
English 7 A
English 7 B
English 8 A
English 8 B
Reading/Writing 7
Creative Writing 8 (AWESOME!!!)
4 periods a day, 2 day rotating schedule. All I can say now
is…bring on the students.
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