Monday, September 14, 2015

From Chopsticks to Forks

Dear Friends,

    I write with a heavy heart. My time in Korea has come to an end—I am back in the United States, for now. Why? In essence, the school broke the terms of my contract, and I left.

      I’ll admit, I’m frustrated. Confused. Fighting bitterness. Two and ½ weeks ago, I stepped on a plane from South Korea to the United States and cried quietly on a red eye flight in the middle seat. I don’t think anyone noticed; or if they did, they didn’t say anything to me. My heart was aching because it had ripped in half. Part of my heart was staying in Korea, and I can never get it back.

     I don’t think I really want it back. I love Korea. I love the people, the culture, their language—and most of all, my precious students. Oh, how sweet they were! They brought more joy and purpose into my life than I ever thought was possible. It always seemed at my low points of a day, a student would smile at me and tell me that I was beautiful. Or I would find an artistic drawing and note made for me by a thoughtful student. Or a piece of candy or chocolate literally popped into my mouth from a little one :D

     Everyone has been asking me, will I go back? I don’t know. I would like to at least visit. I am open to teaching English in Korea again. This year? No. I’ve realized in this past 2 ½ weeks that I need to stay in  my homeland for the next year and regroup. Will I step on a plane, boat, or dragon and go wherever the Lord calls me, even if it means going abroad tomorrow? YES. But I don’t think that’s the case right now.

     I’m back in Lynchburg, tutoring away. Two days ago, I signed a 10 month lease on a beautiful house. I’m home. And in this season of life, I will wait for the next adventure.

Love,

Mary