1. Be thankful and express gratitude. I am indebted to my family for the constant love that they showcase to me. In countless ways, the give me the strength to tackle any task...whether it's in the classroom or kitchen. Calling my mom multiple times a day is not uncommon, asking her questions about everything from job applications to cooking beans. I am incredibly thankful for and humbled by the emotional (and financial, at times) support that they provide, as it enables me to perform my duties in Barranquilla to my highest level. Thank you!
2. Seize tasks with selectivity. In other words, learn to say no. Colombians are very persuasive in their techniques when asking for a favor; however, in being selective in that tasks that I undertake, I am able to dedicate my energy to that which is most pertinent and where my skills can be best utilized. Furthermore, self-control, the discretion to determine whether something is absolutely necessary, is something that I have also developed during my time in Barranquilla. For example, shaved ice with a sugary topping is (sadly) not essential on a daily basis, from both a health and financial perspective.
3. Treat yo'self. In contrast, celebrating victories (both big and small) is an important part of life abroad. Having goals to achieve and small rewards for my accomplishments inspires me to stay invested into my personal and professional aspirations. After a rigorous month of teaching, I spent $22 on a simple hotel room where I could spend the night in air-conditioning and watch television in English. The fact that a treat like this is so rare makes it so much more enjoyable as I celebrate achievements.
4. Explore on your own. Sometimes the most peaceful, beautiful moments of self-reflection and self-growth are those that are spent solo. Taking a moment to be independent in the strong, community-orientated culture of Colombia is rejuvenating. To venture to the beach for a day or tour a museum alone builds confidence and creativity as I inadvertently stumble upon minor hiccups along the way.
5. Don't think about it too hard! Investing my energy into over-analyzing circumstances outside of my control is draining. Sometimes the line at the supermarket is long and slow. Sometimes I find worms in the tomatoes that I am cutting up for lunch. Sometimes strange, unfamiliar men on the street make comments about my "blonde" hair and pale skin. In these situations, I can only control my reaction and move forward positively.
6. Be content without closure. Knowing the long-term outcome of my time in the classroom is impossible. Will my student be the future mayor of Barranquilla? Will my student be a successful adult of character and integrity? Am I making a difference? Revel in uncertainty. Embrace the mystery. I may never understand why a student clings to my arm all day, but I know that I am offering that student the stability that she needs in that moment. Everything happens for a reason.
7. Share in each others' joy and sorrow. Latin Americans make no hesitation in expressing their feelings. Although I cannot always understand what I being said, I can recognize non-verbal cues and match these expressions. If a child is crying at school, I hug them and sympathize with them. If a co-teacher offers a smile or laugh, I can do that same. Connecting to the emotions of others is vital!
Thank you, Barranquilla, for a challenging, rewarding past ten months. I can only imagine what the final two months hold.
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