Hurrah for Christmas!! I Love it.
What a great time of the YEAR!!! I LOVE CHRISTMAS MUSIC!!!! SOOOO GOOD!!!!!!
I hope everyone is having a merry holiday, giving themselves up to jollification and such.
Remember the reason for the season.
Well, here, the last month has had its ups and downs. But I've enjoyed it here. I am trying to motivate myself to do creative writing. And I will continue to try!!!!
Teaching has been going alright!! It keeps me busy, as does Chinese class. I finished the first semester, and am starting the second book. I am really enjoying it. Teaching English has really helped me understand how to learn a language. I finally am learning what the different tenses are, something I never really understood well!
The weather is very nice. Unfortunately, we won't be having snow for Christmas. It will probably be in the 60's or 70's.
I do miss snow on Christmas.
Got my Christmas presents mailed out today. That took forever!!
Recent thought: The myth of Santa Clause - It is apparent to me that there is some tie between Santa clause and the Pied Piper. Currently, I am trying do determine exactly what relationship exists between the two figures, whether they are one in the same person, or bitter nemesii.
Thats it for now!!
Good night!!
Jonathan
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
November 18th
Ni Hao!!!!
I find it shocking that almost a month has passed since I last blogged on here. I wasn't planning to write today, but as it turns out, it is definitely past time. In the last three to four weeks, I've had my birthday, gotten a cold, which I am still fighting, eaten lots of fried rice and done tons of other amazing stuff!! Isn't life Grand!!! My birthday was wonderful!! I got loads of cards from friends and family back home. It really made it a special birthday. Also, I was able to celebrate with some of my friends here. We went to KTV (karaoke tv) and sang some songs. It was fun.
This week, I was planning on going to Kenting, which is a national park about two hours south of here, where there are rumored to be beautiful beaches and great hiking trails. However, I caught a cold which erupted like a big typhoon last night, so that adventure got put on hold. I was still going to try today, but the ignition in my scooter didn't work. I got it changed out, but by the time they were finished, it was 3 o'clock. Too late to go anywhere far. However, if I get out of this coffee shop, I may try to head to chichen island, which is just off the coast of Kaohsiung. I can go either by tunnel or ferry. The main problem is finding the tunnel.
Last week, on Saturday specifically, was the first meeting for swing dancing. Julie, a girl from my church, and I taught a group of people swing dancing. It was a good experience. I think people had a good time. We had around 15-20 people show up, and were able to teach them some of the basics, despite any of the problems that arose (those being, that we planned the event at the cultural center at 7:30 without knowing that at that time, the celebration party for the World Games was taking place there and was EXTREMELY loud).
Still, we were able to do our best, and it went as well as could be expected. It was good for a first time. I think we will both teach again, we just have to set up a time.
Speaking of teaching, it's been going alright. I usually teach 16 hours a week, but that means, when you include grading and preparation time for planning class, that I probably end up working between 25-30 hours a week. Of all that, I only get paid for the sixteen hours I actually teach. Still, It's been OK. I do have free time, and I don't have to work on Wednesday. Also, my first semester of Chinese class ends in two weeks. I will remain at the same school for the second 3 month semester, but after that I may switch schools. But we will see.
I am still very much looking forward to exploring the island. The cold and scooter problem kept me down this weekend, but I will not be defeated so easily.
Here are my interesting observations I have had recently: People here ALSO think I am weird! - Why has that been so all my life, that people who get to know me make this observation?? What do I posses that so sets me apart from others?? Is it my amazing good looks, my stunning personality, or my blazing speed in hand to hand combat. Who knows? But I'm beginning to evaluate it.
Second: I cannot escape the six sense kid!! Just the other day, a Chinese lady from my church wanted to know if I was brothers to the boy who played in the sixth sense!!!!! I really wonder how many times I have been compared to him. Dozens. But I know he doesn't have the same blazing speed in combat that I do!!
Well, that's it for now!!!!
Anyone want to come visit me?? You can!! You can stay at our place!!!! We won't even charge you!!!!:)
I find it shocking that almost a month has passed since I last blogged on here. I wasn't planning to write today, but as it turns out, it is definitely past time. In the last three to four weeks, I've had my birthday, gotten a cold, which I am still fighting, eaten lots of fried rice and done tons of other amazing stuff!! Isn't life Grand!!! My birthday was wonderful!! I got loads of cards from friends and family back home. It really made it a special birthday. Also, I was able to celebrate with some of my friends here. We went to KTV (karaoke tv) and sang some songs. It was fun.
This week, I was planning on going to Kenting, which is a national park about two hours south of here, where there are rumored to be beautiful beaches and great hiking trails. However, I caught a cold which erupted like a big typhoon last night, so that adventure got put on hold. I was still going to try today, but the ignition in my scooter didn't work. I got it changed out, but by the time they were finished, it was 3 o'clock. Too late to go anywhere far. However, if I get out of this coffee shop, I may try to head to chichen island, which is just off the coast of Kaohsiung. I can go either by tunnel or ferry. The main problem is finding the tunnel.
Last week, on Saturday specifically, was the first meeting for swing dancing. Julie, a girl from my church, and I taught a group of people swing dancing. It was a good experience. I think people had a good time. We had around 15-20 people show up, and were able to teach them some of the basics, despite any of the problems that arose (those being, that we planned the event at the cultural center at 7:30 without knowing that at that time, the celebration party for the World Games was taking place there and was EXTREMELY loud).
Still, we were able to do our best, and it went as well as could be expected. It was good for a first time. I think we will both teach again, we just have to set up a time.
Speaking of teaching, it's been going alright. I usually teach 16 hours a week, but that means, when you include grading and preparation time for planning class, that I probably end up working between 25-30 hours a week. Of all that, I only get paid for the sixteen hours I actually teach. Still, It's been OK. I do have free time, and I don't have to work on Wednesday. Also, my first semester of Chinese class ends in two weeks. I will remain at the same school for the second 3 month semester, but after that I may switch schools. But we will see.
I am still very much looking forward to exploring the island. The cold and scooter problem kept me down this weekend, but I will not be defeated so easily.
Here are my interesting observations I have had recently: People here ALSO think I am weird! - Why has that been so all my life, that people who get to know me make this observation?? What do I posses that so sets me apart from others?? Is it my amazing good looks, my stunning personality, or my blazing speed in hand to hand combat. Who knows? But I'm beginning to evaluate it.
Second: I cannot escape the six sense kid!! Just the other day, a Chinese lady from my church wanted to know if I was brothers to the boy who played in the sixth sense!!!!! I really wonder how many times I have been compared to him. Dozens. But I know he doesn't have the same blazing speed in combat that I do!!
Well, that's it for now!!!!
Anyone want to come visit me?? You can!! You can stay at our place!!!! We won't even charge you!!!!:)
Sunday, October 21, 2007
My Number!!!
I just thought I would let everyone know, I got a scooter!! Also, I now have a phone that works. The number is 0955824127.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Dogs in Taiwan
The dogs here in Kaohsiung are completely different then American dogs. Its impossible for me to bike across the city without seeing at least a couple of stray dogs. But unlike American stray dogs, the Taiwanese dogs are laid back. I think the only time I have had a stray dog bark at me was when he smelled my lemonade tea and wanted some. But he ran away with his friend eventually.
Dogs just chill here. You will see dogs running down the street, or sometimes just laying in the street. But they are smart. They know the city, and they know people. Some will wait to cross the street on the crosswalks with people so they won't get hit by cars. Sometimes, if you are biking, you will see dogs just lying in the sun on the side of the road, asleep, with people driving around them.
Part of the reason why I think Taiwanese stray dogs are so personable is because the Taiwanese take there dogs out all the time. You will see the dogs on scooters, sitting in between peoples legs with their tails dragging on the ground, racing along at 30 miles an hour. The other day I saw a huge dog. He could barely fit between the persons legs, and he was almost falling of the scooter. But I could tell by looking at him that he was having a blast.
I think because the Taiwanese dogs go everywhere on scooters, they are less territorial. It's almost as if a second society exists here. The dog society.
Dogs just chill here. You will see dogs running down the street, or sometimes just laying in the street. But they are smart. They know the city, and they know people. Some will wait to cross the street on the crosswalks with people so they won't get hit by cars. Sometimes, if you are biking, you will see dogs just lying in the sun on the side of the road, asleep, with people driving around them.
Part of the reason why I think Taiwanese stray dogs are so personable is because the Taiwanese take there dogs out all the time. You will see the dogs on scooters, sitting in between peoples legs with their tails dragging on the ground, racing along at 30 miles an hour. The other day I saw a huge dog. He could barely fit between the persons legs, and he was almost falling of the scooter. But I could tell by looking at him that he was having a blast.
I think because the Taiwanese dogs go everywhere on scooters, they are less territorial. It's almost as if a second society exists here. The dog society.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Isaiah 44
The Folly of Idolatry
9
¶ They that make a graven image are all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they are their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.
10
Who hath formed a god, or molten a graven image that is profitable for nothing?
11
Behold, all his fellows shall be ashamed; and the workmen, they are of men: let them all be gathered together, let them stand up; yet they shall fear, and they shall be ashamed together.
12
¶ The smith with the tongs both worketh in the coals, and fashioneth it with hammers, and worketh it with the strength of his arms: yea, he is hungry, and his strength faileth: he drinketh no water, and is faint.
13
The carpenter stretcheth out his rule; he marketh it out with a line; he fitteth it with planes, and he marketh it out with the compass, and maketh it after the figure of a man, according to the beauty of a man; that it may remain in the house.
14
He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it.
15
Then shall it be for a man to burn: for he will take thereof, and warm himself; yea, he kindleth it, and baketh bread; yea, he maketh a god, and worshippeth it; he maketh it a graven image, and falleth down thereto.
16
He burneth part thereof in the fire; with part thereof he eateth flesh; he roasteth roast, and is satisfied: yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire:
17
and the residue thereof he maketh a god, even his graven image: he falleth down unto it, and worshippeth it, and prayeth unto it, and saith, Deliver me; for thou art my god.
18
¶ They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.
19
And none considereth in his heart, neither is there knowledge nor understanding to say, I have burned part of it in the fire; yea, also I have baked bread upon the coals thereof; I have roasted flesh, and eaten it: and shall I make the residue thereof an abomination? shall I fall down to the stock of a tree?
20
He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?
9
¶ They that make a graven image are all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they are their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.
10
Who hath formed a god, or molten a graven image that is profitable for nothing?
11
Behold, all his fellows shall be ashamed; and the workmen, they are of men: let them all be gathered together, let them stand up; yet they shall fear, and they shall be ashamed together.
12
¶ The smith with the tongs both worketh in the coals, and fashioneth it with hammers, and worketh it with the strength of his arms: yea, he is hungry, and his strength faileth: he drinketh no water, and is faint.
13
The carpenter stretcheth out his rule; he marketh it out with a line; he fitteth it with planes, and he marketh it out with the compass, and maketh it after the figure of a man, according to the beauty of a man; that it may remain in the house.
14
He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it.
15
Then shall it be for a man to burn: for he will take thereof, and warm himself; yea, he kindleth it, and baketh bread; yea, he maketh a god, and worshippeth it; he maketh it a graven image, and falleth down thereto.
16
He burneth part thereof in the fire; with part thereof he eateth flesh; he roasteth roast, and is satisfied: yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire:
17
and the residue thereof he maketh a god, even his graven image: he falleth down unto it, and worshippeth it, and prayeth unto it, and saith, Deliver me; for thou art my god.
18
¶ They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.
19
And none considereth in his heart, neither is there knowledge nor understanding to say, I have burned part of it in the fire; yea, also I have baked bread upon the coals thereof; I have roasted flesh, and eaten it: and shall I make the residue thereof an abomination? shall I fall down to the stock of a tree?
20
He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?
Monday, October 8, 2007
Another night
It's another day, and another kaleidoscope of feelings, thoughts and musings.
This afternoon, right before I went to prepare for even class, I was pretty down, thinking about how I didn't really like teaching here, how everywhere is pretty much the same, and that life was, more or less, equal to the stench of "stinky tofu," which I can tell you first hand, "by any other name" would smell the same. But by the time I finished class, I my emotions had pulled a u-turn. I felt much better. It is amazing the difference a good two hour class can make. And It should be a warning of the danger of living based on something as fragile as emotions
I've felt stressed a lot here, with work especially. Wondering if I made the right decision working at the school I'm at. But really, I need to take it one day at a time. As some poet once said "Travel is the fool's paradise." And what he meant, as I can fathom it, is this: that no matter where you go, people are people, things are things, places are place, and you are still you. If you're happy with who you are at home, you probably will be wherever you are. But if you are not....then changing the view probably won't help as much as you might think it will.
And honestly, I don't have very much to be stressed out about. I have friends working in other countries who work much harder than I do and am under so much more pressure. I think it's good to sometimes remind ourselves of what's really important in life, and what really lasts. So that's what I'm doing now, and you're reading it!! That this world is mere shadows, a veil that will one day be removed. That in the End, it only matters if we're covered with Grace and Blood.
That we need to take our daily bread, not our yearly meal. To remind ourselves everyday our purposes.
Well, it's late, so I'm gonna take off. I hope that as you read this, you find yourself well, and at peace.
God bless,
Jonathan
This afternoon, right before I went to prepare for even class, I was pretty down, thinking about how I didn't really like teaching here, how everywhere is pretty much the same, and that life was, more or less, equal to the stench of "stinky tofu," which I can tell you first hand, "by any other name" would smell the same. But by the time I finished class, I my emotions had pulled a u-turn. I felt much better. It is amazing the difference a good two hour class can make. And It should be a warning of the danger of living based on something as fragile as emotions
I've felt stressed a lot here, with work especially. Wondering if I made the right decision working at the school I'm at. But really, I need to take it one day at a time. As some poet once said "Travel is the fool's paradise." And what he meant, as I can fathom it, is this: that no matter where you go, people are people, things are things, places are place, and you are still you. If you're happy with who you are at home, you probably will be wherever you are. But if you are not....then changing the view probably won't help as much as you might think it will.
And honestly, I don't have very much to be stressed out about. I have friends working in other countries who work much harder than I do and am under so much more pressure. I think it's good to sometimes remind ourselves of what's really important in life, and what really lasts. So that's what I'm doing now, and you're reading it!! That this world is mere shadows, a veil that will one day be removed. That in the End, it only matters if we're covered with Grace and Blood.
That we need to take our daily bread, not our yearly meal. To remind ourselves everyday our purposes.
Well, it's late, so I'm gonna take off. I hope that as you read this, you find yourself well, and at peace.
God bless,
Jonathan
Saturday, September 29, 2007
my address
Just a quick one.
Here is my address. Everyone send me lots of wonderful things!!!!
Jonathan Joel Schanbacher
457 Dafung 2nd Road
Sanmin District
Kaohsiung, Taiwan ROC
Here is my address. Everyone send me lots of wonderful things!!!!
Jonathan Joel Schanbacher
457 Dafung 2nd Road
Sanmin District
Kaohsiung, Taiwan ROC
Something strange to see
So it's Sunday morning here in Taiwan. Moryam and I are hanging out at home now, probably will head to church around 5:30. English church is in the evening. Well, this week has had its ups and downs. For both of us, Thursday classes are the toughest. So its good whenever Friday morning hits. And yesterday we both had Saturday off, which was a nice change. So we were hanging out at donutes last evening, and we saw something strange. The wall of the building is made entirely of Plexiglas, and we heard explosions, and could see about a block a way, in the middle of the city, fireworks going off. We watched for a while, unable to see what exactly was going on because the view was obscured by the buildings. we figured the fireworks would stop after a little bit. They didn't. So we decided to check it out. We rode over there and ran into some ceremony/celebration. The people were lighting of tons of fireworks on the street. There were several men on stilts, and several men were carrying a shrine box on several sticks that look remarkably like the ark of the covenant. They were in the middle of the street, and they walked back and forth, almost dance like. Eventually, the fireworks finished, and they turned to go down a side street. But there was an archway above it, and someone lit hanging flame fir works that showered down sparks from the arch way. Them men with the shrine would walk up to the flames, stop, and walk back. They reaped these steps until the flames died, then they walked through.
Once through, figures with wild wooden faces and paper hair started dancing on the side street. Most of them had knives or swords or axes, but on had what looked like a ritual dagger. They danced around, getting uncomfortably close to the crowd with the knives. I saw several people jump back. Horns and drums were plain the whole time, and it was quite eerie. After they finished, the men with the shrine came forward and the ceremony was done.
From what I can make of it, my guess is that it was some sort of purification ceremony. I know that fire and water are two elements, at least for the Japanese, that are used for purification. I think there are a lot of similarities between the Chinese and Japanese religions. I'll see if I can find out what exactly happened.
Also, another plus, I got my Arc this week, which means I can attempt to get a drivers licence and buy a scooter. Finally!!!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Moon Festival and other things
Wednsday, September 26th.
Yesterday we celebrated the Moon Festival. It's a national holiday, and lots of people light of Fireworks. I lit off a couple. :) Moryam and I took a trip with friends from our church to the Ocean side cafe where we had sat enjoyed the afternoon with food and drink. I had a quesadilla, which, remarkably, tasted like a real one. Later we headed down to a rocky area that overlooks the sea. We were able to climb a bluff that overlooked the sea. Ii was pretty sweet. There was also a nice shaded area to sit....unfortunately it was really muddy. Later we went down to another beach and walked around for a little while. Its as a rocky beach, with hardly any sand. Definitely wouldn't want to go swimming there. Its pretty close to Kaohsiung, so the water that close is probably polluted anyways. But it was nice to get out of the city for a little while.
Today I have a make up class, but its Orals. Which are EASY!!! And this Saturday, we don't have class at all. The students need to make up a day at Chinese school for missing one for the moon festival. So they have to go to school on Saturday.
Yesterday we celebrated the Moon Festival. It's a national holiday, and lots of people light of Fireworks. I lit off a couple. :) Moryam and I took a trip with friends from our church to the Ocean side cafe where we had sat enjoyed the afternoon with food and drink. I had a quesadilla, which, remarkably, tasted like a real one. Later we headed down to a rocky area that overlooks the sea. We were able to climb a bluff that overlooked the sea. Ii was pretty sweet. There was also a nice shaded area to sit....unfortunately it was really muddy. Later we went down to another beach and walked around for a little while. Its as a rocky beach, with hardly any sand. Definitely wouldn't want to go swimming there. Its pretty close to Kaohsiung, so the water that close is probably polluted anyways. But it was nice to get out of the city for a little while.
Today I have a make up class, but its Orals. Which are EASY!!! And this Saturday, we don't have class at all. The students need to make up a day at Chinese school for missing one for the moon festival. So they have to go to school on Saturday.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Citris tea
I'm in Donutes again, this time with a citrus tea. I don't want to be kept up by caffeen. Its pretty good.
Well, I've been in Taiwan for nearly 4 weeks now. That seems crazy. What have I done in that time? Well, I've spend nearly a week in Taipei, taken a bus to Kaohsiung, started working at Kojen language school teaching english, started taking Chinese classes, ridden my bike a ton, joined a Taiwanese Church, eaten food--though nearly not enough, and generally tried to figure out what life is about. I am definately in better shape here then when I left the states. It's not much to walk a mile or two to get to a store. But I have a bicycle, so i don't walk really far now. I have been practicing taking the taiwanese scooter driver's licence test online. Of the five times I've taken the written part, I've passed once. But, I'm not in any hurry. I can't take the test until I get my Alien Registration Card, which still won't be for around two weeks. We will have next tuesday off. Its a national holiday here in Taiwan. The Moon Festival I think. Hopefully Moryam and I will be able to go somewhere and do something fun. I'll let you know what happens
Moryam and I were thinking the other day about what a strange and distubing tale the Pied Piper is. We decided it would make a great novel. maybe we'll write it.
Reflective thought:
Sometimes I forget the little joys in life. I was thinking today about all the great times I revenged myself on my brother for the things he did. He would come into my room and throw stuff at me. I would chase him out, and he would run and try to hide in his room. but I could often throw something across the stairway and hit him before he got behind the stairs. David, I hope you read this. HE HE
Small joys like that--seeing justice despenced on persecutors--is a wonderful thing.
Resolution: To seize each day, and make the most of every opportunity I have. To not let lack of discipline or laziness steal from me the true treasures that can only be bought with blood and sweat.
Thats all for now. Later
Love to all,
Jonathan
Well, I've been in Taiwan for nearly 4 weeks now. That seems crazy. What have I done in that time? Well, I've spend nearly a week in Taipei, taken a bus to Kaohsiung, started working at Kojen language school teaching english, started taking Chinese classes, ridden my bike a ton, joined a Taiwanese Church, eaten food--though nearly not enough, and generally tried to figure out what life is about. I am definately in better shape here then when I left the states. It's not much to walk a mile or two to get to a store. But I have a bicycle, so i don't walk really far now. I have been practicing taking the taiwanese scooter driver's licence test online. Of the five times I've taken the written part, I've passed once. But, I'm not in any hurry. I can't take the test until I get my Alien Registration Card, which still won't be for around two weeks. We will have next tuesday off. Its a national holiday here in Taiwan. The Moon Festival I think. Hopefully Moryam and I will be able to go somewhere and do something fun. I'll let you know what happens
Moryam and I were thinking the other day about what a strange and distubing tale the Pied Piper is. We decided it would make a great novel. maybe we'll write it.
Reflective thought:
Sometimes I forget the little joys in life. I was thinking today about all the great times I revenged myself on my brother for the things he did. He would come into my room and throw stuff at me. I would chase him out, and he would run and try to hide in his room. but I could often throw something across the stairway and hit him before he got behind the stairs. David, I hope you read this. HE HE
Small joys like that--seeing justice despenced on persecutors--is a wonderful thing.
Resolution: To seize each day, and make the most of every opportunity I have. To not let lack of discipline or laziness steal from me the true treasures that can only be bought with blood and sweat.
Thats all for now. Later
Love to all,
Jonathan
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Teaching began!!!
Sept 08, 2007
6:41 pm
Donutes coffee and cakes
Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
I have finally started teaching. Today was my first day, and I taught five hours. Three classes. I can say that the last hour was the best and that I grew more comfortable as the classes proceeded, but I think it will be a while before I feel truly at home in the class room, if that ever happens. Next week I will teach a class on Monday, Tuesday, two on Thursday, one on Friday, and three on Saturday for a total of 15 hours. However, there will also be a fair amount of preparation planning going on since I'm still so new to this.
Its hard to describe what I feel for Taiwan right now. It seems like a place where I could lose track of time, and suddenly find that weeks or even months had gone by. And it doesn't seem that foreign. Perhaps that's strange, but it feels a lot like the U.S. to me. Maybe because when you live somewhere and begin to get into a habit, you stop noticing the oddities. Of course, I haven't explored at all really. Got to get a scooter for that. I really look forward to heading down to the beaches at Kending, or up to Tainan, the Cultural capital of Taiwan. But who knows when that will happen. Hopefully soon!!! :)
Overall, I think Taiwan is a really ingratiating place. Most of the people have been really helpful. It's great if you know Chinese, though.
Speaking of which, ny Chinese class is going to be pretty sweet, but bites having to get up at 7:15 in the morning so I can bike the 30-45 minutes to class. And its crazy biking along with all the scooters. Very few people bike around in the main streets. It seems that if they want to go very far, they usually take a car or scooter. And on the way to and form class, I have to bike up a bridge over the train station. Oh, its a killer ride. I feel like a Tour DE France sprinter, biking as hard as I can for about 30 seconds. then i coast over the top and pant and get my breath back as i coast down the other side. Who knows that all the Taiwanese people think. "Whats that crazy foreigner doing biking over the bridge." Probably not. Most have been really nice. Yesterday, on my way to class, I stopped at a red light and a Taiwanese man who was also stopped at the light smiled and asked me where I was from, and what I was doing in Taiwan, and how long I had been here. I had just enough time to reply before the light turned green and we both went zipping our own ways.
We started learning actual grammar and vocabulary in class. I can now say, "I am a teacher." It is like this, but with different intonations: "Wo Shi Laoshi." I've got a lot to learn, but so far, its pretty fun.
Tonight there we may end up going out with some friends. My legs are pretty tired from teaching, but I'm totally jazzed that tomorrow is Sunday. If anyone reads this, I'm really sorry for not getting pictures and video up yet. I will hopefully very soon.
To my family and friends,
I miss you all very much!!!!!
Jonathan
6:41 pm
Donutes coffee and cakes
Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
I have finally started teaching. Today was my first day, and I taught five hours. Three classes. I can say that the last hour was the best and that I grew more comfortable as the classes proceeded, but I think it will be a while before I feel truly at home in the class room, if that ever happens. Next week I will teach a class on Monday, Tuesday, two on Thursday, one on Friday, and three on Saturday for a total of 15 hours. However, there will also be a fair amount of preparation planning going on since I'm still so new to this.
Its hard to describe what I feel for Taiwan right now. It seems like a place where I could lose track of time, and suddenly find that weeks or even months had gone by. And it doesn't seem that foreign. Perhaps that's strange, but it feels a lot like the U.S. to me. Maybe because when you live somewhere and begin to get into a habit, you stop noticing the oddities. Of course, I haven't explored at all really. Got to get a scooter for that. I really look forward to heading down to the beaches at Kending, or up to Tainan, the Cultural capital of Taiwan. But who knows when that will happen. Hopefully soon!!! :)
Overall, I think Taiwan is a really ingratiating place. Most of the people have been really helpful. It's great if you know Chinese, though.
Speaking of which, ny Chinese class is going to be pretty sweet, but bites having to get up at 7:15 in the morning so I can bike the 30-45 minutes to class. And its crazy biking along with all the scooters. Very few people bike around in the main streets. It seems that if they want to go very far, they usually take a car or scooter. And on the way to and form class, I have to bike up a bridge over the train station. Oh, its a killer ride. I feel like a Tour DE France sprinter, biking as hard as I can for about 30 seconds. then i coast over the top and pant and get my breath back as i coast down the other side. Who knows that all the Taiwanese people think. "Whats that crazy foreigner doing biking over the bridge." Probably not. Most have been really nice. Yesterday, on my way to class, I stopped at a red light and a Taiwanese man who was also stopped at the light smiled and asked me where I was from, and what I was doing in Taiwan, and how long I had been here. I had just enough time to reply before the light turned green and we both went zipping our own ways.
We started learning actual grammar and vocabulary in class. I can now say, "I am a teacher." It is like this, but with different intonations: "Wo Shi Laoshi." I've got a lot to learn, but so far, its pretty fun.
Tonight there we may end up going out with some friends. My legs are pretty tired from teaching, but I'm totally jazzed that tomorrow is Sunday. If anyone reads this, I'm really sorry for not getting pictures and video up yet. I will hopefully very soon.
To my family and friends,
I miss you all very much!!!!!
Jonathan
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Church and First Scooter Ride
Time: 11:29 pm - September 02, 2007
Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
So Moryam and I decided that we wanted to try to find a church. We've had an amazing number of Christian contacts so far, be it teachers at the schools we work at, or Taiwanese on the plane trip here. Anyone who doesn't believe in God might label these coincidences, by my sneaky suspicion is that there is something else. The common theme in the conversations I've thus far had with the Christians here has centered around finding a church. When we first arrived in Kaohsiung, the director at school 1( we work at school 3) a Taiwanese lady, told me she was Christian. I asked her what church she went to, and she said she didn't go to church. However, she directed me to a man named Glenn, who gave me a card with directions to his church. It just so happens that a girl named Frankie, who is from England, goes to the same church, and she works in our school. She had a map, and helped us figure out how we could get there. Then it was up to the Taxi, or our New found Taiwanese Legs, to get us there.
As we had never been in that area before, we decided to leg it. It took nearly an hour. We left at about 4:40 pm (they have English service in the evening) and were in sight of the Church by 5:35. We grabbed some food and drink, I made a quick supper at the nearest pastry store, and we went in.
The service was great. The Pastor's name was Steve, who was born a MK in Hongkong but moved to England at nine, and studied at Cambridge. The sermon was very meaningful and convicting. Afterwards, they offered to take us to an American restaurant where they serve Mountain dew and Dr Pepper. YES!!!! We rode scooters.
It was my first Scooter experience, and I cannot wait to get one. I don't know what it is about the Taiwanese scooter traffic that makes it so insane. Maybe its that most of them are driving without licences. Maybe its the relationship first, laws second mentality. All I know is that it's a rush flying along the road with scooters on the left and right of you, with little room to move.
we eventually got to the restaurant, and it was nice. The DR Pepper was GREAT!!! They don't have it here, but the restaurant imports it. Then the pastor and his wife gave us both a ride to our apartment on their scooters. It was great, and saved us about an hour walking.
I would write more, but its late and I want to take a shower. Its now 1:30 in the morning. My blog got deleted once. This is the second attempt. Until next time.
Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
So Moryam and I decided that we wanted to try to find a church. We've had an amazing number of Christian contacts so far, be it teachers at the schools we work at, or Taiwanese on the plane trip here. Anyone who doesn't believe in God might label these coincidences, by my sneaky suspicion is that there is something else. The common theme in the conversations I've thus far had with the Christians here has centered around finding a church. When we first arrived in Kaohsiung, the director at school 1( we work at school 3) a Taiwanese lady, told me she was Christian. I asked her what church she went to, and she said she didn't go to church. However, she directed me to a man named Glenn, who gave me a card with directions to his church. It just so happens that a girl named Frankie, who is from England, goes to the same church, and she works in our school. She had a map, and helped us figure out how we could get there. Then it was up to the Taxi, or our New found Taiwanese Legs, to get us there.
As we had never been in that area before, we decided to leg it. It took nearly an hour. We left at about 4:40 pm (they have English service in the evening) and were in sight of the Church by 5:35. We grabbed some food and drink, I made a quick supper at the nearest pastry store, and we went in.
The service was great. The Pastor's name was Steve, who was born a MK in Hongkong but moved to England at nine, and studied at Cambridge. The sermon was very meaningful and convicting. Afterwards, they offered to take us to an American restaurant where they serve Mountain dew and Dr Pepper. YES!!!! We rode scooters.
It was my first Scooter experience, and I cannot wait to get one. I don't know what it is about the Taiwanese scooter traffic that makes it so insane. Maybe its that most of them are driving without licences. Maybe its the relationship first, laws second mentality. All I know is that it's a rush flying along the road with scooters on the left and right of you, with little room to move.
we eventually got to the restaurant, and it was nice. The DR Pepper was GREAT!!! They don't have it here, but the restaurant imports it. Then the pastor and his wife gave us both a ride to our apartment on their scooters. It was great, and saved us about an hour walking.
I would write more, but its late and I want to take a shower. Its now 1:30 in the morning. My blog got deleted once. This is the second attempt. Until next time.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Writing from Kaohsiung
Hello!!!! I'm In Kaohsiung now. Moved here on Monday by Bus. It was a nice ride. I watch a couple of movies without sound. Afterwords I found out that there were speakers behind my seat that could have been turned on. Oh well.
Anyways, Moryam and I have have more training down here. We will definitely take all we can get, but right now I'm at the point where I just want to start. I don't think I can really improve much until I get my hands dirty, so to speak.
I definitely like the city better than Taipei. At least for now. It seems more Navigable. However, that's not saying much; you can be right next to the electronics store and not know it because most of the signs are written in Chinese. I definitely am planning to take a course in Chinese. Then I will actually know what I'm Eating. I won't have to worry about it being Dog.
Food is Great, and Cheap (great, assuming that I've not been eating Dog). You can usually get a good meal for less than $3US. It will be interesting to see how many hours we will be working. Right now were not sure. But they will definitely be in the evenings.
Most likely, I will be getting a scooter. YES!!!!!! Kaohsiung doesn't have a very good public transportation service yet, so most people use scooters or cars.
That's about all for now. Oh, Wait, The last thing. A fun little blurb that I composed in free verse because Moryam ( also known as Van opstallion) was making fun of my awesome rhyming skills:
The light of the evening sun
Is like golden fire on the East China Sea.
Above the clouds of mist and rain the cry of the bird roars.
It flies its own path and chooses its own destiny,
And those who fly with it choose a fate not of their own making.
They have with strong wings subdued the wind.
But only for a time.
That all. What fun!!!!
Until Later,
Jonathan
Anyways, Moryam and I have have more training down here. We will definitely take all we can get, but right now I'm at the point where I just want to start. I don't think I can really improve much until I get my hands dirty, so to speak.
I definitely like the city better than Taipei. At least for now. It seems more Navigable. However, that's not saying much; you can be right next to the electronics store and not know it because most of the signs are written in Chinese. I definitely am planning to take a course in Chinese. Then I will actually know what I'm Eating. I won't have to worry about it being Dog.
Food is Great, and Cheap (great, assuming that I've not been eating Dog). You can usually get a good meal for less than $3US. It will be interesting to see how many hours we will be working. Right now were not sure. But they will definitely be in the evenings.
Most likely, I will be getting a scooter. YES!!!!!! Kaohsiung doesn't have a very good public transportation service yet, so most people use scooters or cars.
That's about all for now. Oh, Wait, The last thing. A fun little blurb that I composed in free verse because Moryam ( also known as Van opstallion) was making fun of my awesome rhyming skills:
The light of the evening sun
Is like golden fire on the East China Sea.
Above the clouds of mist and rain the cry of the bird roars.
It flies its own path and chooses its own destiny,
And those who fly with it choose a fate not of their own making.
They have with strong wings subdued the wind.
But only for a time.
That all. What fun!!!!
Until Later,
Jonathan
Saturday, August 25, 2007
To anyone who takes it upon themselves to read this account,
Greetings!! I just set up this web blog, and am in the process even now of figuring out how it works. As I write, Moryam and I are in Mr. Brown's Coffee house, writing. Tomorrow we will be leaving Taipei and heading to the southern tip of Taiwan, to the city of Kaohsiung -pronounces gao (like cow) she - ung. Supposedly, the temperature in Kaahsiung is warmer than in Taipei. I really hope that it isn't much warmer, as I am nearly always sticky and hot, even though I take several showers a day. Oh, and by the way, it is Sunday, and my luggage still hasn't arrived. I'm not prepared to worry about it as there is nothing I can do to make it come faster. However, if I find that it is lost for good, Ohhhhhhh, that won't be good.
As for teaching, well, we haven't started yet, but we have sat in on several classes. I think its going to be a little scary, but I kind of just want to start. We still have more training, but I think its one of those things where practice is essential, and it is worse waiting with the unexpected and unknown hanging over your head.
We're going to try to find a Church here in Taipei city. Moryam found one on the Internet that look pretty close to where we live.
I think that might be it for now. I'm going to see if this posts. Later on, i hope to get my camera linked up and upload pictures and videos. But one step at a time.
Greetings!! I just set up this web blog, and am in the process even now of figuring out how it works. As I write, Moryam and I are in Mr. Brown's Coffee house, writing. Tomorrow we will be leaving Taipei and heading to the southern tip of Taiwan, to the city of Kaohsiung -pronounces gao (like cow) she - ung. Supposedly, the temperature in Kaahsiung is warmer than in Taipei. I really hope that it isn't much warmer, as I am nearly always sticky and hot, even though I take several showers a day. Oh, and by the way, it is Sunday, and my luggage still hasn't arrived. I'm not prepared to worry about it as there is nothing I can do to make it come faster. However, if I find that it is lost for good, Ohhhhhhh, that won't be good.
As for teaching, well, we haven't started yet, but we have sat in on several classes. I think its going to be a little scary, but I kind of just want to start. We still have more training, but I think its one of those things where practice is essential, and it is worse waiting with the unexpected and unknown hanging over your head.
We're going to try to find a Church here in Taipei city. Moryam found one on the Internet that look pretty close to where we live.
I think that might be it for now. I'm going to see if this posts. Later on, i hope to get my camera linked up and upload pictures and videos. But one step at a time.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)