A poem that was passed onto me today, one of those that was just perfect for the moment.
"O God, with hope I enter in
And call to mind your desert grace:
To wayworn people you have been
A presence in the wilderness.
But far from Sinai have I roamed
And bear the hidden wounds of strife;
Away and worn, I yearn for home;
Athirst, desire the spring of life.
O break the rock, let water flow
And wash the dust and drought from me;
I taste your peace, your presence know,
And drinking deep, am healed and free.
How shall my days your grace proclaim;
How shall my deeds your healing prove?
An open heart will praise your name;
My grateful life will sing your love.
O God, with joy I enter in,
Restored and precious in your sight,
For in your grace I live again
In lands of honey and delight."
--Susan Cherwien
24 February 2010
10 February 2010
You know you're in Malaysia when...
A disclaimer-- I'm not sure how well this entry is going to translate onto paper, but if the point doesn't come across you can just ask me about it later!
You know you're in Malaysia when...
In choir rehearsal, the director mimics the wide, unchoral-like singing that is occurring and tells us to "not sing like a chile paddy." A chile paddy, of course. Why didn't I think of that.
From my advanced class tonight: Background information for the story-- in Malay "c" is pronounced "ch."
One student asks me, "why do you pronounce 'can' like 'caan' (insert overemphasized wide Wisconsin accent here)?" I try to explain that it is my accent, and not the correct pronunciation. Furthermore, I go on to explain that it is not just my American accent, but from the area of the US that I am from. I ask them if people from Sarawak speak Malay differently from Sabahans-- the answer is as I expect; "of course." Issue settled.
Except not. "So Miss Ellen, should I say 'caan' or 'cahhn' (insert overemphasized British accent here)?"
As I'm pondering how to teach the correct neutral pronunciation of 'can,' another student makes it very clear.
"It's easy. If you are in America, you say "caan." If you are in England, you say "cahhn". If you are in Malaysia, you say "chaan."
That's pretty much the best joke of my life. I hope you thought so too!
On a completely different note, Kelsey and I have mandarin oranges up to our ears (Chinese New Year). We've already made two pitchers of freshly squeezed orange juice. I guess we'll have an extra lucky year?
Off to Indonesia tomorrow for a week-- we'll be in Jakarta, Cirebon, and Lembang (Bandung) if you feel like checking out the atlas. :)
Also, I added my monthly reading list on the side of my blog. The books aren't necessarily strategic, just what I have available. So if you'd like to read along with me or discuss books, you know what I'm reading!
You know you're in Malaysia when...
In choir rehearsal, the director mimics the wide, unchoral-like singing that is occurring and tells us to "not sing like a chile paddy." A chile paddy, of course. Why didn't I think of that.
From my advanced class tonight: Background information for the story-- in Malay "c" is pronounced "ch."
One student asks me, "why do you pronounce 'can' like 'caan' (insert overemphasized wide Wisconsin accent here)?" I try to explain that it is my accent, and not the correct pronunciation. Furthermore, I go on to explain that it is not just my American accent, but from the area of the US that I am from. I ask them if people from Sarawak speak Malay differently from Sabahans-- the answer is as I expect; "of course." Issue settled.
Except not. "So Miss Ellen, should I say 'caan' or 'cahhn' (insert overemphasized British accent here)?"
As I'm pondering how to teach the correct neutral pronunciation of 'can,' another student makes it very clear.
"It's easy. If you are in America, you say "caan." If you are in England, you say "cahhn". If you are in Malaysia, you say "chaan."
That's pretty much the best joke of my life. I hope you thought so too!
On a completely different note, Kelsey and I have mandarin oranges up to our ears (Chinese New Year). We've already made two pitchers of freshly squeezed orange juice. I guess we'll have an extra lucky year?
Off to Indonesia tomorrow for a week-- we'll be in Jakarta, Cirebon, and Lembang (Bandung) if you feel like checking out the atlas. :)
Also, I added my monthly reading list on the side of my blog. The books aren't necessarily strategic, just what I have available. So if you'd like to read along with me or discuss books, you know what I'm reading!
31 January 2010
chinese new year, take one
As February is quickly approaching, the city is gearing up to celebrate the Chinese New Year (beginning the 14th). Slowly but surely, elaborate red decorations are adorning the city. Last week, Kelsey and I had our first introduction to the holiday-- we attended a women's Bible study group, where we learned how to make lanterns from ang pow (the red envelopes that married couples give to the unmarried with money in it during the holiday-- like the kid's table at thanksgiving, only better!). Of course, there are two glorious lanterns now on our apartment wall. :)
Last night, however, was our first official celebration, and it was wonderfully fun. Kelsey's morning placement is at a place called Cheshire Home, which is a home for people with disabilities. There is a huge range among the residents there, since Malaysia isn't very advanced in its programs and facilities for people with disabilities. Cheshire Home was putting on a Chinese New Year celebration for all of its residents and their families.
The night was very full-- we enjoyed a great feast of food, games, karaoke, dancing, laughter, and socializing. Some highlights: a lion dance, a new friend named Conney who conned me into dancing a traditional Kadazan dance (that I had actually learned a week prior!), children teaching me to "boca boca," dancing the electric slide (in Malaysia!), and spending quality time getting to know some of the residents. It reminded me of my time with Best Buddies and YARC; I had a blast, and am secretly hoping that Cheshire home will celebrate another holiday before July so I can hang out with the residents some more. Definitely a night to remember. I am really looking forward to the upcoming celebrations of Chinese New Year (though I think I have to prepare my stomach a bit for all the food!).
Here's a few photos from the night!
A traditional lion dance to bring in the New Year.
Some residents enjoying the dance.
It would not be a proper Malaysian celebration without an arm wrestling competition!
and of course, the food! Fish, anyone?
Last night, however, was our first official celebration, and it was wonderfully fun. Kelsey's morning placement is at a place called Cheshire Home, which is a home for people with disabilities. There is a huge range among the residents there, since Malaysia isn't very advanced in its programs and facilities for people with disabilities. Cheshire Home was putting on a Chinese New Year celebration for all of its residents and their families.
The night was very full-- we enjoyed a great feast of food, games, karaoke, dancing, laughter, and socializing. Some highlights: a lion dance, a new friend named Conney who conned me into dancing a traditional Kadazan dance (that I had actually learned a week prior!), children teaching me to "boca boca," dancing the electric slide (in Malaysia!), and spending quality time getting to know some of the residents. It reminded me of my time with Best Buddies and YARC; I had a blast, and am secretly hoping that Cheshire home will celebrate another holiday before July so I can hang out with the residents some more. Definitely a night to remember. I am really looking forward to the upcoming celebrations of Chinese New Year (though I think I have to prepare my stomach a bit for all the food!).
Here's a few photos from the night!
A traditional lion dance to bring in the New Year. Very impressive, and the young children loved it.
Some residents enjoying the dance.
It would not be a proper Malaysian celebration without an arm wrestling competition!
and of course, the food! Fish, anyone?26 January 2010
everyone loves a good routine
With the new school year underway, we're already in the third week of classes. I find myself tired out from attempting to have a sense of routine in my new schedule. Slowly, but surely, it's coming along. I've had a lot of people ask me lately how I spend my time each day, so here's a picture into my new found schedule. While I realize this isn't the most enthralling or culturally exciting entries, it is, however, informative. :) One thing that's difficult for me is to have my commitments split up during the day. I have many chunks of free time, I just need to learn to use them appropriately.
One thing that I have gotten used to is the lunch break from 12:15-2:00. I love being able to take time to cook a nice lunch, and read my book (or yes, sometimes take a power nap) in exchange for teaching later into the evening. I, too, am also getting used to prepping for three classes-- this is more difficult than I would have realized! I'm not used to seeing my students only twice a week, and I find I have a hard time remembering what we did last class, or what we're working on next. (To this, I feel that the local slang is only appropriate, so I'll say it) Iyah.
Total, I have 33 students, mostly from the Malay department (which is really exciting). I won't teach my students in the Chinese department until June, when I will teach a four week intensive course daily, right up until it's time for me to come home. My students are mostly from Sabah and Sarawak (East Malaysia), but also Myanmar, West Malaysia, Indonesia, and China. Also, I have four students that I give one-on-one tutorials to, so that is another thing that keeps me planning and busy.
So, without further ado, here's roughly what my schedule looks like. I also hold office hours, so when I'm not teaching, I am in my office from 8-4.
Mondays
- 7:40-9:25 English B (I'm not sure who decided it was a good idea for me to start teaching so early!)
-9:30-10:30 Chapel
-2-4 English A
-7-9 English C
Tuesdays
- 8:00 English Tutorial
- 9:30-10:30 Family Group (in Malay)
- 2:00-3:00 English Tutorial
-7:30-8:30 English Tutorial
Wednesdays
- 9:30-10:30 Chapel
- 10:30-12:15 English A
-2:00-4:00 Choir
-7-9 English C
Thursdays
-8:00-9:00 Tutorial
- 9:30-11 Chapel and Fellowship
-2-4 English B
-7:30 Tutorial
Fridays
- LOTS of planning and grading
And to think, this all happens while you are sleeping. :)
One thing that I have gotten used to is the lunch break from 12:15-2:00. I love being able to take time to cook a nice lunch, and read my book (or yes, sometimes take a power nap) in exchange for teaching later into the evening. I, too, am also getting used to prepping for three classes-- this is more difficult than I would have realized! I'm not used to seeing my students only twice a week, and I find I have a hard time remembering what we did last class, or what we're working on next. (To this, I feel that the local slang is only appropriate, so I'll say it) Iyah.
Total, I have 33 students, mostly from the Malay department (which is really exciting). I won't teach my students in the Chinese department until June, when I will teach a four week intensive course daily, right up until it's time for me to come home. My students are mostly from Sabah and Sarawak (East Malaysia), but also Myanmar, West Malaysia, Indonesia, and China. Also, I have four students that I give one-on-one tutorials to, so that is another thing that keeps me planning and busy.
So, without further ado, here's roughly what my schedule looks like. I also hold office hours, so when I'm not teaching, I am in my office from 8-4.
Mondays
- 7:40-9:25 English B (I'm not sure who decided it was a good idea for me to start teaching so early!)
-9:30-10:30 Chapel
-2-4 English A
-7-9 English C
Tuesdays
- 8:00 English Tutorial
- 9:30-10:30 Family Group (in Malay)
- 2:00-3:00 English Tutorial
-7:30-8:30 English Tutorial
Wednesdays
- 9:30-10:30 Chapel
- 10:30-12:15 English A
-2:00-4:00 Choir
-7-9 English C
Thursdays
-8:00-9:00 Tutorial
- 9:30-11 Chapel and Fellowship
-2-4 English B
-7:30 Tutorial
Fridays
- LOTS of planning and grading
And to think, this all happens while you are sleeping. :)
18 January 2010
raindrops keep falling on my head
When preparing to come to Malaysia, I knew two things for sure; that it was going to be really hot, and there would eventually be a rainy season.
Even though it's been the rainy season for a while now, I still feel like I have no idea what to expect or that I have a very good sense of what "the rainy season" means.
I do, however, know these things.
It is important to always bring an umbrella and shut your windows when you leave the house.
The wind picks up about a minute before it is going to downpour-- I can predict it with 100% accuracy.
It's not uncommon for it to rain multiple times a day or for the rain to last only a few minutes. At the same time, it has now been raining for three days straight.
Streets flood. Sometimes students miss school because of rain.
I have been wearing sweatpants to bed the entire week, a sweater during the day, and have been wishing for a second blanket.
I'm aware that these things may not be an actual definition of the rainy season. I still feel as though I don't really know what it is.
One thing that IS apparent is that Malaysia becomes a different place in the rain. Deafeningly loud frogs serenade me from the gutter outside my apartment. Beady eyes appear in the darkness. Insects swarm and worms crawl. A whole plethora of noises and smells awaken, and a cool breeze rushes into the house. Clothes and papers are damp (and stay damp), and the chilly air bounces off the concrete walls.
The effects of the rain contend-- trapped without my umbrella, my thoughts are drawn to those caught in the rain, lacking shelter, while the rain replenishes and cools, leaving a paint-by-number canvas where every number is filled with green.
forecast for tomorrow? hmm. my guess is rain.
Even though it's been the rainy season for a while now, I still feel like I have no idea what to expect or that I have a very good sense of what "the rainy season" means.
I do, however, know these things.
It is important to always bring an umbrella and shut your windows when you leave the house.
The wind picks up about a minute before it is going to downpour-- I can predict it with 100% accuracy.
It's not uncommon for it to rain multiple times a day or for the rain to last only a few minutes. At the same time, it has now been raining for three days straight.
Streets flood. Sometimes students miss school because of rain.
I have been wearing sweatpants to bed the entire week, a sweater during the day, and have been wishing for a second blanket.
I'm aware that these things may not be an actual definition of the rainy season. I still feel as though I don't really know what it is.
One thing that IS apparent is that Malaysia becomes a different place in the rain. Deafeningly loud frogs serenade me from the gutter outside my apartment. Beady eyes appear in the darkness. Insects swarm and worms crawl. A whole plethora of noises and smells awaken, and a cool breeze rushes into the house. Clothes and papers are damp (and stay damp), and the chilly air bounces off the concrete walls.
The effects of the rain contend-- trapped without my umbrella, my thoughts are drawn to those caught in the rain, lacking shelter, while the rain replenishes and cools, leaving a paint-by-number canvas where every number is filled with green.
forecast for tomorrow? hmm. my guess is rain.
15 January 2010
I find my heart heavy today, matching the quiet tapping of rain on the roof, for a multitude of reasons. The most pressing however, are current events within my country of residence and worldwide.
Today in chapel we heard a message from Joshua-- a message of strength and courage. "Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
I find I am clinging onto these words as I follow as best I can the news from Haiti, and read an update from the ELCA of a young seminary student (a friend of some of the volunteers here) who most likely did not survive the earthquake.
My thoughts also turn to the country I am currently in; to issues of religion, peace, and understanding. Recently, there have been attacks on churches-- events that are uncommon and unsettling in Malaysia (all is safe, but please read more at www.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/world/asia/12malaysia.html).
I also find myself in growing discomfort with situations right outside my doorstep, disconcerting situations of poverty and prejudice within illegal immigrant workers. I find myself torn; between cultures, societal values, and conscience.
And so I am, banned together with the millions of others around the world who read the news, heavy hearted; sitting uncomfortable, wondering, and praying.
Strength and courage.
Today in chapel we heard a message from Joshua-- a message of strength and courage. "Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
I find I am clinging onto these words as I follow as best I can the news from Haiti, and read an update from the ELCA of a young seminary student (a friend of some of the volunteers here) who most likely did not survive the earthquake.
My thoughts also turn to the country I am currently in; to issues of religion, peace, and understanding. Recently, there have been attacks on churches-- events that are uncommon and unsettling in Malaysia (all is safe, but please read more at www.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/world/asia/12malaysia.html).
I also find myself in growing discomfort with situations right outside my doorstep, disconcerting situations of poverty and prejudice within illegal immigrant workers. I find myself torn; between cultures, societal values, and conscience.
And so I am, banned together with the millions of others around the world who read the news, heavy hearted; sitting uncomfortable, wondering, and praying.
Strength and courage.
03 January 2010
changes, changes, changes
The last couple weeks have been full of little and big changes that will affect my time here in Malaysia.
Starting with the most noteworthy; I've moved! Don't worry, "change in address" cards are not necessary... but due to an overflow of new students coming into STS (the new school year begins in January), my apartment in Wisma STS is now being inhabited by the new female warden. I'm happy to report, however, that I've moved up in the world, and have moved from the dorms to the lecturers' apartments.
This move has its pros and cons, naturally. The biggest cons are losing the community of living with the students (and the meal plan!), and of course, the hassle of moving from one place to another.
It is, however, really strange to move in a different country. I've been here long enough that packing up my bag didn't automatically transfer my brain into heading home mode, which I found both interesting and good.
Onto the pros-- my new apartment is really great. The lecturers have a sweet deal. Here's why.
1) The awesome view of the mountains and the jungle from my fourth floor balcony.
2) I have an oven. I have an oven! This week included apple crisp, baked spaghetti, and lots of bread!
3) It's really spacious, airy, sunny, and cool. A wonderful combination for lifting spirits!
4) There's a TV, complete with three channels. This is mostly exciting because I really love the Olympics, I haven't watched a TV in probably seven months, and I can watch Jeopardy in Malay.
5) Colored walls, non-florescent lighting, a bathtub, kitchen counter space, a toilet that flushes, and a bathroom counter are things I find constantly surprising and exciting. I'm not sure what this means for when I return to the States...
Along with the move came a new roommate. My previous roommate, Erika, had the opportunity to move to her placement site where she teaches. This is an amazing experience for her to have, but I know I will miss her as a sounding board here. We will still share a room whenever she chooses to take a weekend away from her site though. Another one of the volunteers, Kelsey, moved in with me, as her previous roommate also moved to her placement site. Kelsey and I are determined to cook lots of delicious food, as well as practice Malay each evening. Ambitious as it may sound, I think we have some promising dinners in our future.
The next change is with my church placement. Today was my last day at Rainfield, as I will be switching to a closer, but larger BCCM church in Likas. This opportunity came up as three volunteers are moving to their weekly placement, leaving the church in Likas. This decision was a bit harder for me, and I'm still not sure if I chose the right thing... the pros and cons here were a bit greater than a nice balcony view. I am hoping that I will still be able to find a sense of community at this new church, without the commute. Something you can definitely keep in your thoughts and prayers!
Other than that, the next big change starts next week-- a whole new school year, and new students to meet! I feel like a counselor on the first day of staff training at camp; maybe this is the feeling I will now forever associate with the first day of school? Either way, I'm kind of nervous! Somehow, the first official day of school is more nerve-wrecking than my first day teaching in Malaysia...
In other news, Heidi, our ELCA coordinator from the States is coming to visit in a few short weeks. This is the first year Malaysia has been a global missions site, so I know we are all excited to meet and discuss how things are going and to have her see what we have been up to.
Also, my picture was featured in the local Chinese paper a few weeks back. The picture was from a city Christmas celebration. Don't worry, the caption was all about orangputih (white people) and tourists... just in time for Christmas, hahaha.
Check out my monthly newsletter for updates on Christmas, I'll try to get a bit about New Year's up soon.
Starting with the most noteworthy; I've moved! Don't worry, "change in address" cards are not necessary... but due to an overflow of new students coming into STS (the new school year begins in January), my apartment in Wisma STS is now being inhabited by the new female warden. I'm happy to report, however, that I've moved up in the world, and have moved from the dorms to the lecturers' apartments.
This move has its pros and cons, naturally. The biggest cons are losing the community of living with the students (and the meal plan!), and of course, the hassle of moving from one place to another.
It is, however, really strange to move in a different country. I've been here long enough that packing up my bag didn't automatically transfer my brain into heading home mode, which I found both interesting and good.
Onto the pros-- my new apartment is really great. The lecturers have a sweet deal. Here's why.
1) The awesome view of the mountains and the jungle from my fourth floor balcony.
2) I have an oven. I have an oven! This week included apple crisp, baked spaghetti, and lots of bread!
3) It's really spacious, airy, sunny, and cool. A wonderful combination for lifting spirits!
4) There's a TV, complete with three channels. This is mostly exciting because I really love the Olympics, I haven't watched a TV in probably seven months, and I can watch Jeopardy in Malay.
5) Colored walls, non-florescent lighting, a bathtub, kitchen counter space, a toilet that flushes, and a bathroom counter are things I find constantly surprising and exciting. I'm not sure what this means for when I return to the States...
Along with the move came a new roommate. My previous roommate, Erika, had the opportunity to move to her placement site where she teaches. This is an amazing experience for her to have, but I know I will miss her as a sounding board here. We will still share a room whenever she chooses to take a weekend away from her site though. Another one of the volunteers, Kelsey, moved in with me, as her previous roommate also moved to her placement site. Kelsey and I are determined to cook lots of delicious food, as well as practice Malay each evening. Ambitious as it may sound, I think we have some promising dinners in our future.
The next change is with my church placement. Today was my last day at Rainfield, as I will be switching to a closer, but larger BCCM church in Likas. This opportunity came up as three volunteers are moving to their weekly placement, leaving the church in Likas. This decision was a bit harder for me, and I'm still not sure if I chose the right thing... the pros and cons here were a bit greater than a nice balcony view. I am hoping that I will still be able to find a sense of community at this new church, without the commute. Something you can definitely keep in your thoughts and prayers!
Other than that, the next big change starts next week-- a whole new school year, and new students to meet! I feel like a counselor on the first day of staff training at camp; maybe this is the feeling I will now forever associate with the first day of school? Either way, I'm kind of nervous! Somehow, the first official day of school is more nerve-wrecking than my first day teaching in Malaysia...
In other news, Heidi, our ELCA coordinator from the States is coming to visit in a few short weeks. This is the first year Malaysia has been a global missions site, so I know we are all excited to meet and discuss how things are going and to have her see what we have been up to.
Also, my picture was featured in the local Chinese paper a few weeks back. The picture was from a city Christmas celebration. Don't worry, the caption was all about orangputih (white people) and tourists... just in time for Christmas, hahaha.
Check out my monthly newsletter for updates on Christmas, I'll try to get a bit about New Year's up soon.
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