Week 6...CHECK!

This week I...

1. I taught at what is called an English-medium school (or is it Tamil-medium??...don't quote me on that) one afternoon.  Anyway, the school is for those children who come from lower economic backgrounds.  I introduced myself and then we played name bingo (or began to play).  This form of bingo is when each student creates their own bingo gamecard by filling in each of the boxes with different categories (favorite color is blue, black hair, etc.) and then they must have their fellow classmates sign in the box or boxes which pertain to them.  To say this was a rowdy group is an UNDERSTATEMENT!  Many of the students were not strong English speakers, so between trying to explain the instructions to the students so that they understood what it is they were doing and keeping them on task, I was quite ready to leave after the class hour was finished.  We ended the class period with singing Father Abraham.  They really enjoyed this, although what began as a circle of students doing the body movements, quickly became a "Father Abraham Mosh Pit"...lol.  Anyway, while I enjoyed the children's excitement and eagerness, I did learn that language is so important in communication.  I found myself at times frustrated because I did not know Tamil and the children's English was very limited, so communicating instructions and directions or even explaining a lesson became much more difficult and seemed almost impossible at times.  I really wish I could just download into my brain whatever language is needed when I travel. 
2. I learned how to make homemade naan, roti and wheat bread.  My supervisor's wife continues to make me feel loved.  She invited me over to not just learn how to bake each of these items, but to be able to take my very own loaf of bread home.  With high expectations, I am taking all of these new recipes and cooking styles back with me to the U.S.  I just really hope I am able to put them to use.  Life has a funny way of slipping you back into the saddle of chaos when reality sets in.  Nonetheless, when a free moment does arise, at least I have something to look forward to possibly doing. 
3. Presented a lesson on gossiping for my senior girls.  Apparently, this is a topic or area of concern for the dorm--as is for places all over the world.  Again, here lies another example where humanity crosses over all cultural or language divides.  Gossiping is a world-wide problem.  Anyway, we had a good discussion. 
4. Received positive feedback from school teachers and administrators about the kids' gospel choir.  Apparently, what is being heard during our practices is being enjoyed--so much so that I have been asked to lead praise and worship during the school's weekend retreat for their 11th graders.  Again, no one is listening to my "group singer" claim.   
5. Helped with leading praise and worship during Sunday's service.  We incorporated hand movements in an effort to help people let loose and be alive during praise and worship.  While it looked like the kids and younger people may have appreciated our efforts, there still is work to do for our "more seasoned" church members.