Vamos, Vamos, Tiburón

I could feel the ground trembling beneath me. I could hear the unfaltering roar of the crowd. Nothing have I ever experienced like this. 

This is Colombian soccer. 

Fans clad in red and white striped jerseys jumped from their seats, clinging to each other in passionate embraces. Others in the stadium boisterously shoved those around them, carelessly aware of only one thing. Junior scored a goal. 

Junior is one of twenty teams within the Liga Águila del Fútbol Profesional Colombiano. On my first day in Barranquilla, my host family eagerly declared their loyalty to Junior as we watched a game on television. Much to their approval, I embraced Junior as my team, too. 

Although our tickets specified exact seats, my Colombian friend and I arrived early enough to the game that we were able to actually choose where we wanted to sit. He merely shrugged his shoulders when I questioned if we needed to find the seats printed onto our tickets. 

We sat on the east side of the stadium, a relatively calm place to enjoy the game with a perfect view of the centerfield. This side of the stadium is referred to as the Barra Fuerza Tiburona, or literally, the Shark's Force Fan Section. 

Around the stadium hung colorful banners representing different neighborhoods in Barranquilla. The most clamorous fans occupied the south side of the stadium, chanting throughout the entire game. These fans are the Barra Frente Rojiblanco Sur, or literally, the Red and White Front.  

Minutes before the game began, diehard fans eagerly distributed red, white, and blue balloons among the crowd. These represented the colors of Junior. Others distributed plastic bags in the colors of Barranquilla's flag: red, yellow, and green.

I captured air inside of my yellow bag and held it high as the anthem of Barranquilla played. As the anthem ended, we left the bags and balloons to the wind, blowing freely in a colorful confetti to the lowest part of the stadium. 

Eighth-ranked Junior played second-ranked Independiente Santa Fe. To spot a Santa Fe fan in the crowd was impossible. When I asked my friend if Junior would win, he replied affirmatively. His answer needed to justification. Junior fans, through the good and the bad, are undyingly loyal to the tiburones, or sharks. 

His confidence was justified, as Junior claimed a 3-1 victory over the team from Bogotá. With each of the three goals, the stadium shook beneath my feet as the fans jumped and cheered. 

To not be completely engulfed within the sights and sounds was impossible. In such an amplified environment, feeling a part of the culture is not difficult. In these moments, at my very first soccer game, I never felt more at home. 

A Day with Doris

Crowds of people lined the narrow aisles that separated the tiny booths bursting with goods. Everything from raw fish and used suitcases to cactus plants and exotic fruits overflowed from each stall. A rainbow of color vividly presented itself in the rich fabrics, bright plastic wear, and array of foods on display.  Car horns blared as taxis and buses struggled to move through the masses.

When a coworker invited me to spend a Saturday afternoon with her in "El Centro," I never could have imagined the sights and sounds that would engulf me. 

"Is there a good day to go shopping here," I asked Doris, "With less crowds?" She casually replied, "The market is always this full of people." 

Attempting to catch my attention, vendors called, "Mona," as I maneuvered though the booths. This term refers to those with light-colored hair. Several tugged lightly on my arm in hopes of making a sale. 

Doris had advised me not to bring a purse, so I brought only a cheap cell phone and a few pesos discreetly tucked into my clothes. With a distinguishably different appearance  and obvious amazement at the activity surrounding me, I could be a particular target for pickpocketing. 

Upon discovering a few booths with jewelry and accessories, Doris eagerly pulled me inside the area. After considering the merchandise, she bought me a necklace, earrings, and headband. 

Just a short walk from the heart of the market's excitement stood a contrasting, peaceful plaza, marking the home of the beautiful Iglesias de San Nicolás de Tolentino. We entered for a moment before returning to the crowds. 

We eventually found a hearty, vegetarian-friendly lunch and indulged ourselves before returning to her house and spending a few moments with her family. 

This chaotic afternoon, slightly overwhelming (yet completely thrilling), is a defining cultural experience for me. To drown into such an authentic moment, guided by the expertise of a local is precious. I will never forget my day with Doris. 

Time for School

In true Colombian fashion, plans change at a moments notice. During the past two weeks, I transitioned from teaching at Hogar Mariano to another school: Instituto Distrital para el Desarrollo del Talento Humano (IDETH). This change provided the safest, most beneficial experience for both me and students. This co-ed school is less than 8 minutes on a bus from my house.

My first day at IDETH happened to be the day of the school's Carnaval celebration. While I assumed that I would be observing the festivities, the other teachers had different plans. Upon arriving to school, they declared me the Carnaval queen. While one teacher covered my eyelids in vivid eyeshadow, another rushed to a closet where she emerged with a bright pink and turquoise dress in a traditional "cumbia" style. Once the party began, the director of the school introduced me to the parents and students as I made an attempt to dance onstage.

This unexpected welcoming foreshadowed the inclusion and support that I have received. Parents are always greeting me and offering me advice on living on the coast. Telling them that I enjoy living in Barranquilla always brings a smile to their faces.

I have finally begun teaching, after a week of meetings, class observations, and several days of no school due to the Carnaval celebration. My students are in kindergarten, first, and second grades and especially enjoy singing songs in English.

While I create lesson plans and teach independently in kindergarten and second grade classes, I co-teach the first grade classes with Amparo.

Amparo has been a teacher for many years and speaks English well. With energy and enthusiasm, she does an amazing job teaching. After talking with some of her students from last year, I am impressed by the knowledge that they recall and their excitement for learning English. 

These children are eager to share their affection. Upon entering the classroom, I am greeted with countless hugs. Walking around the school, I often hear little voices exclaiming, "Teacher," accompanied by a smile and brisk wave. 

During snack break, the children love sharing their chips and cookies. While accepting the food from their sticky hands is not always the most appetizing, I am warmed by their desire to share. Not every moment is easy, but their smiling faces make every moment worthwhile!

Five Weeks, Five Insights

Within the past five weeks, I have gained a unique look on life in Colombia. Each day is unpredictable, yet energetically full of promise. Five things that I have learned in the past five weeks are: 

1. Patience and flexibility are essential for any American traveling in Colombia. Plans change at a moment's notice and time is free-flowing and debatably nonexistent. I am now in the process of transitioning from my initial placement school to a new school: Instituto Educativo Distrital para el Desarrollo del Talento Humano. My moving to a new school provides an overall better experience for both me and my students. With this change, I am perfecting the Latin American art of having a "cógela suave" attitude and going with the flow.  

2. Upon arriving in Colombia, one of my program directors said, "Don't underestimate the power of McDonald's." I unbelieving disregarded the comment, finding the fast food chain to be repulsive. However, after my short time in Barranquilla, I must admit that there is something soothing about the Golden Arches, the free wifi, and the greasy taste of cheap French fries being just a bus ride away. I have also acquired a new respect for fried yuca dipped in a mixture of mustard and mayonnaise. The common, potato-like root vegetable is delicious.

3. Although exact relations can be confusing, extended Colombian family members have become an integral part of my life. My cousin offered to take me to church and another invited me to spend Holy Week in another city. Last Friday, I spent the evening with two younger cousins and another volunteer playing card games and listening to music. I have also joined my aunt on bicycle rides throughout Barranquilla. I could continue to list the time I have spent with my family. Having such an inclusive family is sweet. 

4. The little things mean the most: sharing a smile, being given a sticker from an affectionate child, and conversing with a baker after buying a piece of bread that costs less than 20 cents. These simple acts make strong connections...and having these friendships is one of my happiest accomplishments in Barranquilla. Being greeted and conversing about merchandise in a local tienda undoubtedly means that I am slowly but surely integrating into my community.  

5. As Colombians need little reason for festivities, every day is a good day to celebrate. Seeing a car driving though town on a weeknight with giant speakers blaring salsa music through an open trunk is not uncommon. On Fridays, lawn chairs are set in a circle where neighbors and friends gather to revel in each other's company. When Miss Colombia--a Barranquilla native--won Miss Universe, endless excitement ensued. Simply put, Colombians enjoy the moment and the people in their life. 

"Cógela Suave"

I recently met my neighbors José, José, and Daniel. While I wish our first encounter were a typical introduction, we met on a late Thursday night when my key broke inside the padlock of the gate that encloses my front porch.

After calling inside the gate to my neighbor's door, the men emerged...cautiously and curiously observing the gringa outside of their home. I explained my problem and they quickly got to work. With no more than a small file, hammer, and flashlight, the men began filing at the padlock to get me inside of the gate. Other neighbors and those passing through the neighborhood occasionally inquired about the situation and offered their support. Two hours later, I entered the gate with much gratitude and relief.

Having to go to work in the morning, the men were partially self-motivated in their efforts; but, they also genuinely cared that I was safe and could eventually get into my house. When offering my thanks and apologies, they would reply with the popular costeño phrases, "Cógela Suave" and "Tranquilla." In other words, they encouraged me to take it easy and relax.

This is just one example of the kindness that I have received in Barranquilla. Within the past two whirlwind weeks, I have been overwhelmingly welcomed and embraced into this city. While Colombia may traditionally be perceived as a dangerous or insecure place, I have discovered that the number of good people in the world is exponentially greater than the number of bad people.

Many of these good, wonderful people work at  the all-girls school Hogar Mariano. I am still establishing a routine with my third, fourth, and fifth grade girls, but I am eagerly working to make my classes the best that they can be. My girls are affectionate, showering me with hugs and greeting me with, "Teacher." They love playing with my light brown hair and sharing their stickers and snacks with me at recess.

Through my 3 helpful neighbors and 360 new students, I am reminded to "Cógela Suave"and be grateful for the beauty and good in the world.

Empieza la Aventura

Since January 1, my days have been spent in rigorous preparation for the next year. In addition to having regular Spanish classes, volunteers are trained in teaching grammar, creating lesson plans, accepting cultural norms, and more. We also spent a days in Bogotá opening a bank account, applying for a Colombian ID, and meeting with the American embassy. These long, incredibly worthwhile days are part of an intricate plan. 

Colombia has great visions for the progression of English-fluency within its schools. By 2025, Colombia wants to be the most bilingual country of South America, aspiring for each high-school graduate to be speaking English at a pre-intermediate level. Colombia is now investing more money in education than its military. To play a role in this plan is invigorating, yet also intimidating. 

My worst fear is that I should someday become accustom to the beauty of this opportunity. I want never to lack in appreciation for my days in Colombia. My time here is precious and my purpose will remain strong. 

While I familiarize myself with these new surroundings, I am inspired by the overall kindness of those around me. After stopping at Starbucks to ask for directions, an employee escorted my group a block to our destination. To be greeted by a stranger on the street with "Buenas" is not uncommon. 

During a four-day English camp in which teachers are evaluated before beginning their placement, my students showered me with notes, drawings, and  affection. I am encouraged by their warm acceptance of my efforts. I look forward to teaching third, fourth, and fifth grade at all-girls school called Hogar Mariano. 

On January 18, I fly into Barranquilla to officially begin my teaching journey. Let the adventures commence! 

¡Lista Como una Camioneta!

To be sitting in the airport, eagerly waiting for my flight from Atlanta to Bogota, is surreal. Departure time is finally here. For over seven months, I have eagerly anticipated this moment and thoughtfully considered this yearlong journey. 

Despite unknowns, my heart is passionately invested into the potential that 2015 holds. As I embrace the sights and sounds of Colombia, I will be teaching English at a public school through the organization WorldTeach. After about three weeks of orientation in Bogota, I will fly to the warmth of my placement city Barranquilla. Barranquilla, a costal city of just under two million people, is known for its fast-paced, slang-filled Spanish. 

As I embark upon this opportunity, I am blessed by the kindness of countless individuals...even strangers. My home church, former coworkers, college friends, family, and even elderly acquaintances at the airport have showered me in well-wishes, departing gifts, and monetary support. To be shown such love is both humbling and encouraging. I look forward to sharing this experience with all.

On a service trip to Nicaragua, I met an enchanting little boy named Derby. We played "Go Fish" together almost every evening and he loved the occasional piggyback ride. He also  taught me the phrase, "Lista como una camioneta." This literally means, "Ready like a truck," or better put, "I'm ready! Let's do this!" As I begin my life in Colombia, I can't help but to feel "lista como una camioneta."