Dear Self

Dear Self,

In five short days you will take a trip that will change your life. You will be nervous, not only about the unknown laid before you but about missing your amazing family and friends, don't let the nervousness dishearten you. God has given you this opportunity and will change your life with it. Take chances, travel and see the world through others eyes, inspire your students, and reach out of your comfort zone. Don't spend your time wondering how life in the states is going on without you, instead make the best of your moments in your new surroundings. Whenever you are lonely or things seem daunting lean on God, talk to Him daily and let Him become your rock. Stick by your morals and go back to the basics. God is giving you this opportunity to draw closer to Him in the midst of a new culture and world. Don't waste your time with meaningless things, use every minute to improve yourself. Do things you never thought you would do, taste foods you think look disgusting, read books you would never even pick up, and talk with the people of the land. This experience will change your life, don't take it for granted.

In your classroom challenge your students. Form a relationship with them and their families, they will probably help you more than you help them. Learn their stories and their background, and share yours. Push them more than they think they can go. Take notes and observe how the education is across the world, they are obviously doing something right. Don't turn down an opportunity to try a new technique. Be a sponge and soak it all up.

These two years will be sure to change your life. Live them in a way you can look back and smile. It will have its ups and downs, but focus on the journey. Enjoy the ride.

Enjoy,
Megan 2009