My Little Euphoria (James G.)

Out of everywhere in this world, there is no place I would rather spend my 18^th birthday than right here in the little town of Chamba.  I love everything about this place.  The people, the landscape, the driving, the animals, the market, the clothes, the culture, even the food.  The most important thing to me however, is the kids.  My delightful little orphans in the village of Kalsuin.  There are about 30 kids in the school, and about 50 in the Ashram.  I love every one of them.

This is the end of the third day here in Chamba.  We have taught 3 lessons.  I was trying to think of how many days it has been since we left home, but I honestly don’t have the slightest clue.  I even asked the guys, and we couldn’t even figure it out.  We commute to school every day on some insane roads, its so cool.  Its about 30 minutes each way.  Teaching is pretty difficult considering the fact that some of the kids literally don’t know a word of English.  They are so willing to learn, so helpful, and so happy, despite some of the conditions they are living in.  They are so bright, and when they finally learn something, it is so rewarding.

I absolutely love the team I am working with.  Lauren is the most amazing leader, she is so fun with the kids and is always prepared.  Sierra never, ever, ever, ever runs out of energy, she is incredible!  Kenna is so fun and so willing to do whatever the kids want her to do, especially tickle fights that I may or may not have started.  Amy is such a good teacher, and is adorable with the kids.  She always has such a good attitude towards everything. Madeline is super fun and loves being with the kids, especially painting their nails.  Ethan is absolutely hilarious with the kids.  After a very long time of attempting to physically force him to paint his nails, he finally did it! I am having the best time of my life.

I don’t think I have ever been this exhausted, and not even from lack of sleep.  The time change threw me off, but honestly not too bad.   Teaching is just so exhausting.  I now understand how all my teachers and my parents have felt when teaching…. wow.  I have a new level of respect for teachers.

I am so thankful for this opportunity I have to be here.  I will never be able to thank Robert and Allison enough for all they have done.  They really have helped me want to make a difference in the world.  Thank you so much to everyone who has helped me get to where I am.  I love you all!!!

One Response to “My Little Euphoria (James G.)”

1. Dave Gessel, on November 21st, 2013 at 6:59 pm Said:

   James,
   Happy 18th birthday. We love you and our proud of you and what you are doing. Keep having a great time. Dad