Friday, June 27, 2008

June 27, 2008

Time for Celebration and Reflection!

Thursday evening was a time to celebrate our successes as Global Volunteers. Some team members enjoyed an evening at a local jazz club, while the rest were treated to a very elegant dinner with Carl and Esperanza at San Miguelitos. The decor was authentic and reflected the flavor of Mexico, but even more important, the evening gave us an opportunity to appreciate our diverse group and all we have accomplished in our mission.

But where has the time gone? Less than two weeks ago, 14 volunteers were streaming into Querétaro, full of questions and anticipation. Most of us had NO IDEA what our volunteer experience would be like! Uncertainty reigned. But now, we are experts at introducing ourselves, we know which photos to share, and most of all, we know how to make the UTEQ students feel at ease and encourage them as they work to master the English language. For days we worried about what lessons we´d be expected to follow, but now we "go with the flow."

We have learned that in some ways, the students resemble our own; they share interests in music, movies, food and sports. Yet two things stand out: their close bond with their families, and their sincere appreciation for their opportunity to obtain a quality education.

The students, with the encouragement of their teachers, are curious about us and abour our country. They want to know about our families, our favorite music, and even our marital status! But from them we learn about the history and culture of Mexico, and the places they are so proud of: Chiapas, Veracruz, and Guanajuato, among others.

But they are a thoughtful lot, too. At the end of one class, the teacher announced that there were two minutes left and to say our "good-byes." I asked the students if they had any questions for me. Immediately Antonio asked, "What do you think about the situation in your country?" Puzzled, I asked, "What situation?" "Oh, the war, immigration, oil and drugs." I laughed and said, "Antonio, all of that would take an hour!" Fortunately, I did get an opportunity to meet with him again, and we made time for an in-depth discussion, and from that, we both learned much.

As we prepare to return home, I´d like to end with a statement from an UTEQ student. He spoke aloud what countless others have thought. He shook my hand and told me, "Thank you so much for coming. I like this when we get authentic English speakers so we can learn from people who speak the language everyday."

And so, our mission in Querétaro has been accomplished!


Thought for the Day:

There, but for the grace of God, go I.

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