Posts
Where in the World is D Today?
Wondering what in the world happened?!
What do I mean by that? Well, something has shifted in my brain. I love my family deeply. Family is everything when you think about it. They will love you even when you’re being a jackass. They know most of your secrets and end the end they will choose you and stick by your side when everyone else has left you. At least that’s how my family is. If your family isn’t like mine, that is really too bad, REALLY? Anyway… I digress.
My point before was that as much as I love my family, there was this HUGE thing inside that could not wait to get back to Taiwan. My life here is anything but perfect, but this NEED to get back here was…. well…. WEIRD. I don’t really know where it came from. That’s why I wonder what happened? When did this shift happen in me? I don’t have a girlfriend, so I wasn’t rushing back for that. I did miss the food greatly. But, I ate great food in the U.S. My Chinese is mediocre at best on a good day. Meaning I spend a good portion of my life completely in the dark and confused. So the joy of confusion was not what was eating at me. And as I’ve stated many times to friends and family, at the end of the day, I am ALONE in Taiwan and that can at times be very lonely. Nonetheless, I missed my life as a Panda.
Here’s what I “think” may have happened. I am a guy in transition in his life. Transformation takes time. I have on occasion said “Taiwan was my destiny.” I didn’t then and still don’t now, fully understand the impact of that statement. I just know that things worked out in a way that seems as though I’m suppose to be here doing…. Something. What? I have no flippin’ idea.
This is what I DO know. When I came back, I could breathe. My chest was just lighter. When I walked down the street, people smiled and sometimes waved. I could be wrong, but I think my neighborhood missed their community Panda. Well, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. My first 24hours back were just awesome. I was Happy. I don’t say that often! Really, I just felt Happy. Comfortable. I spoke the best Chinese I could muster and it was good enough. They understood me and I them. When I had my first meal back, it was simply heaven in my taste buds! And the weather was AWESOME! (I've never loved the cold of the midwest in winter. Tolerate, endure, yes. Love? Nope, not ever gonna happen.)
So the question is do I miss my family and friends in the U.S.? ABSOLUTELY! As much as I miss my family and they miss me, I know that just want me to be happy. Like I said before, family sticks with you through whatever. They know I’ll return someday to be in their presence. In the meantime, I will enjoy their support as I continue to try to figure out what it is I want to do when I grow up.
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Monday, February 1, 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Yeah, You Can Go Home Again. But it's still a little weird.
Where in the World is D Today?
Feeling less like a Panda?
In my last post I pondered a few aspects of culture shock as they pertain specifically to me.
Being in Missouri the weather, or should I say the temperature, is much more palatable than Chicago and Galesburg. The weather here has been gray and gloomy, much like Taiwan was when I left.
I drove my car for the first time in a year. I actually worried a bit if it could still manage the gearshift without seeming like a beginning. My worries were unfounded. My body remembered the car quite well and it felt like the car remembered me too. It was a very pleasant experience driving my car again. I missed it more than I knew.
My Dear, Dear Friend Lyn gave me a coming home dinner party with my "Obama Buddies", Peter and Ty, Kurt, Lisa and their son Jake, and Charles and Monica. Lefty progressives all! It was fun to talk politics and culture. I was in a room of people who "got" me and I "got" them. Food and drink and lots of laughter. It was shear bliss.
I spent time with three of my former students yesterday, Duane, Dart, and Jerry. Most of the time was with Dart and Duane. I was very close to these guys as a teacher, mentor and role model. We laughed and clowned around just as before. I nagged Dart about his sagging pants and Duane about his smoking, just like before. Just as before, out of respect for me, Dart pulled up his pants and Duane didn't smoke in the car. Jerry was as "thought full" as ever. I always like that about him. A thinker, that my kind of guy!!
I've had a few Chinese moments along the way since being here. My desire to maintain what little ability I have to speak Chinese has prompted me to bold as I would not have been, nor needed to be in Taiwan. I've approached a few people that I thought looked Chinese and spoke to them in Chinese. It was both terrifying and gratifying at the same time. They clearly did not expect me to speak Chinese. And they were so pleased that I did. Most importantly, They Could UNDERSTAND me!!!!!!!!!! Say it with me people.... AWESOME!!!!! I now truly understand what it must feel like to a stranger who approaches me in Taiwan. They want to talk and are genuinely interested, but KNOW their language ability is limited.
My time with Sean and Marcy has been fun. They were at the dinner last night and was able to see a part of my world that they had never really seen been apart of before, me interacting with "my grown up friends".
Things ARE beginning to feel "normal". I still need to get to KC to see the rest of the family and my friend Tracy. There are still many people to see here in Columbia. Time is becoming a factor now. But I am not going to let myself get stressed by it. (Yeah, Right!! LOL)
In the U.S. I'm not so much of a Panda. I know the rules and the culture intuitively. I've always been a bit of an odd nut here. The difference is how I "choose" to be an odd nut here and in Taiwan, I am an odd nut by mere virtue of my existence.
But I'll tell you a secret. I miss my life as a Panda. It is often uncomfortable for me in Taiwan. But, I do have dear and trusted friends and allies in James, Ray, Jack, Will, Claire and my Starbucks buddies. I miss my Taiwan family of May, Ken and Kevin. I miss Even, Hao Ting and my Chinese Teacher Zoe. I miss the adventure of living as a foreigner. I don't love the challenges, but I always manage to get over and around them with the help of my friends. I have a GREAT support system! AND, I miss the food soooooooo much!I've said it so many times since I've been here. Taiwan food is DELICIOUS!!
So, yeah, you can go home. It's familiar and comfortable again, and still a little odd. BUT... I like CoMO (Columbia, Missouri) my friends and family. I remains true as I said in a blog post some months back, America is my home. I will always be her son. Someday I will return for good. In the meantime, Taiwan calls me and I must answer.
Peace
戴格智
Feeling less like a Panda?
In my last post I pondered a few aspects of culture shock as they pertain specifically to me.
Being in Missouri the weather, or should I say the temperature, is much more palatable than Chicago and Galesburg. The weather here has been gray and gloomy, much like Taiwan was when I left.
I drove my car for the first time in a year. I actually worried a bit if it could still manage the gearshift without seeming like a beginning. My worries were unfounded. My body remembered the car quite well and it felt like the car remembered me too. It was a very pleasant experience driving my car again. I missed it more than I knew.
My Dear, Dear Friend Lyn gave me a coming home dinner party with my "Obama Buddies", Peter and Ty, Kurt, Lisa and their son Jake, and Charles and Monica. Lefty progressives all! It was fun to talk politics and culture. I was in a room of people who "got" me and I "got" them. Food and drink and lots of laughter. It was shear bliss.
I spent time with three of my former students yesterday, Duane, Dart, and Jerry. Most of the time was with Dart and Duane. I was very close to these guys as a teacher, mentor and role model. We laughed and clowned around just as before. I nagged Dart about his sagging pants and Duane about his smoking, just like before. Just as before, out of respect for me, Dart pulled up his pants and Duane didn't smoke in the car. Jerry was as "thought full" as ever. I always like that about him. A thinker, that my kind of guy!!
I've had a few Chinese moments along the way since being here. My desire to maintain what little ability I have to speak Chinese has prompted me to bold as I would not have been, nor needed to be in Taiwan. I've approached a few people that I thought looked Chinese and spoke to them in Chinese. It was both terrifying and gratifying at the same time. They clearly did not expect me to speak Chinese. And they were so pleased that I did. Most importantly, They Could UNDERSTAND me!!!!!!!!!! Say it with me people.... AWESOME!!!!! I now truly understand what it must feel like to a stranger who approaches me in Taiwan. They want to talk and are genuinely interested, but KNOW their language ability is limited.
My time with Sean and Marcy has been fun. They were at the dinner last night and was able to see a part of my world that they had never really seen been apart of before, me interacting with "my grown up friends".
Things ARE beginning to feel "normal". I still need to get to KC to see the rest of the family and my friend Tracy. There are still many people to see here in Columbia. Time is becoming a factor now. But I am not going to let myself get stressed by it. (Yeah, Right!! LOL)
In the U.S. I'm not so much of a Panda. I know the rules and the culture intuitively. I've always been a bit of an odd nut here. The difference is how I "choose" to be an odd nut here and in Taiwan, I am an odd nut by mere virtue of my existence.
But I'll tell you a secret. I miss my life as a Panda. It is often uncomfortable for me in Taiwan. But, I do have dear and trusted friends and allies in James, Ray, Jack, Will, Claire and my Starbucks buddies. I miss my Taiwan family of May, Ken and Kevin. I miss Even, Hao Ting and my Chinese Teacher Zoe. I miss the adventure of living as a foreigner. I don't love the challenges, but I always manage to get over and around them with the help of my friends. I have a GREAT support system! AND, I miss the food soooooooo much!I've said it so many times since I've been here. Taiwan food is DELICIOUS!!
So, yeah, you can go home. It's familiar and comfortable again, and still a little odd. BUT... I like CoMO (Columbia, Missouri) my friends and family. I remains true as I said in a blog post some months back, America is my home. I will always be her son. Someday I will return for good. In the meantime, Taiwan calls me and I must answer.
Peace
戴格智
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
2009 a year in review
Where in the World is D Today?
Being his typical reflective self. Because that’s what Panda’s do.
It’s been almost a full year in Taiwan. Some of it has been really great. Some of it….. not so much. Let’s take a look back.
January 5, I get an email from Jack, not motorcycle Jack, Dewey Education Services Jack. Dewey services the contract for the Taiwan government. BTW Jack is a very common English name for Taiwan men. The short version…
“Do you still want to teach in Taiwan?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Can you be here February 1?”
“?!?!?!..... Ummmm… Let me see what I can work out.
Yes, I will come.” *gulp!*
A lease is signed to rent my house. (This is a subject I have said absolutely nothing about on my blog. But those close to me know it was easily my worse decision of 2009. It led to the collapse of a friendship, the pre-mature selling of my house and HUGE, we’re talking 5 digits, financial loss for me. Not to mention the shear emotional and mental stress to deal with some 7700 miles and weird time zones. What can I say, it seemed like a good idea at the time.)
My first 24 hours in Taiwan, is a series of comical miscommunications. Some of which I have yet to figure out “why” things happened the way they did. And I end up with Josh as my roommate. Josh and I are totally incompatible as roommates. And I end up getting my own apartment. I will say that I am very happy to report, that now that I don’t live with Josh, we get along quite well. I’ve watched him grow this year. He’s a decent fellow with a good sense of humor. And from what I can tell, he’s a good teacher. I’ve watched his rapport with the kindergarten kids and it’s pretty cool! I would have never guessed at the beginning of the year. Two thumbs up Josh!!
Met my first friends in Starbucks. I call it Ground Zero for the beginning of “life” in Taiwan. Coke was the first, then Timmy. Followed quickly by Shaq, Pie and Cindy. Who would eventually me the greatest Chinese name EVER, 戴格智 Then I got to know the staff and they got to know me. Winnie, Sylvie, Bryan, Elma, Dolphin, Rain, Eddie were my life-savers. These folks were my first up close experiences with Taiwan culture and Chinese language. For a long time I was as come to Starbucks as coffee. This is also when I first begin referring to myself as a Panda.
Discovered the sheer joy of KTV in April. Laughing, eating, drinking and singing. It doesn’t get better than that! KTV is a 24 hour a day deal. Going to KTV at 3 am is normal.
I experience my first Earth Quake ever at 2:00AM in June. This is a very bad way to wake up! Tears and vomit ensue. It was probably one of the most insecure moments of my life. My body and nerves where thrown completely out of whack. I’ve been through other earthquakes since. I still HATE them, but I don’t freak out either. There was a “big one”, by Taiwan standards, the week before Christmas. I was having dinner with friends. It would have extremely serious for if I would have been in my 14th floor apt.
Experienced my first Typhoon in August. I’d have to say it was a bit anti-climactic for me. Here in Jhongli, it was pretty calm. But unfortunately in the south many people died. It was quite horrible down there. And news reports had friends and family on high alert in the U.S. It’s nice to know people care if you live or die.
The food in Taiwan is simply delicious. Unfounded worries of me losing weight because of the food. If anything I’ve gained weight.
I began seriously with Chinese lesson in the summer, July. My Chinese is well, not very good in my opinion. 我覺得中文很困難. But the things I can say, I say very well with a decent Taiwan accent. I, like everything else in my life, have taken a more difficult path in learning Chinese. I am learning Chinese in a way that children in Taiwan learn Chinese. I am learningㄅㄆㄇㄈ , a phonetic system for learning sounds in Chinese. If I don’t understand a word when people say it, they can write it this way and I will understand better. Or at the very least add a new word to my vocabulary.
I joined a gym in March. Love the showers. Hate the number of men that walk around naked. The staff is cool, but not as cool as Starbucks. I do a body combat class twice a week to mix up my workout. I tried a step class… twice. I sucked both times. Step class is Taiwan is WAY different from the U.S. The routine just builds and builds. It seems you start with step one. By the end of class you are on step 37. It’s one long continuous routine. That’s fine. I am good through the first 5-6 consecutive steps, then I get very confused. The steps are much more difficult AND the instructions are in Chinese. I don’t feel too bad, because there are Taiwan people who can’t figure it out either..and they speak Chinese!
Found a church in the summer. It was definitely an answer to prayer at the time. I don’t attend as regularly as I did before. The language barrier is to great. 2010 will have a search for an English speaking church.
The fall led to the discovery of Thai Massage. Please resist the temptation to attach something sexual to it. It isn’t. Trust me when I say I there were, I sure as heck wouldn’t tell the whole world on my blog. It’s just a great massage. And by U.S. standards is super cheap. $1000NT for 2 hours, that’s about $34 US.
My latest adventure is riding Brutus, my motorbike. My friend Randy Rook once said God protects drunks and idiots. I’m not a drunk, so that only leaves idiot. I have felt that protection from time to time. I am beginning to ride more like a Taiwan person. I don’t know if that is necessarily a good thing, but it is certainly critical for survival on the streets of Jhongli.
All in all, it’s been a good year of growth. I still feel very much like a man in transition. There is much I haven't written about, but I think you get the point of my life. I re-signed my contract, so I will be in Taiwan another year. I am hopeful at the possibilities. I am hoping to become a better teacher, a better speaker of Chinese and maybe…. just maybe, I can find a girl friend. Wish me Luck.
Peace.
戴格智
Being his typical reflective self. Because that’s what Panda’s do.
It’s been almost a full year in Taiwan. Some of it has been really great. Some of it….. not so much. Let’s take a look back.
January 5, I get an email from Jack, not motorcycle Jack, Dewey Education Services Jack. Dewey services the contract for the Taiwan government. BTW Jack is a very common English name for Taiwan men. The short version…
“Do you still want to teach in Taiwan?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Can you be here February 1?”
“?!?!?!..... Ummmm… Let me see what I can work out.
Yes, I will come.” *gulp!*
A lease is signed to rent my house. (This is a subject I have said absolutely nothing about on my blog. But those close to me know it was easily my worse decision of 2009. It led to the collapse of a friendship, the pre-mature selling of my house and HUGE, we’re talking 5 digits, financial loss for me. Not to mention the shear emotional and mental stress to deal with some 7700 miles and weird time zones. What can I say, it seemed like a good idea at the time.)
My first 24 hours in Taiwan, is a series of comical miscommunications. Some of which I have yet to figure out “why” things happened the way they did. And I end up with Josh as my roommate. Josh and I are totally incompatible as roommates. And I end up getting my own apartment. I will say that I am very happy to report, that now that I don’t live with Josh, we get along quite well. I’ve watched him grow this year. He’s a decent fellow with a good sense of humor. And from what I can tell, he’s a good teacher. I’ve watched his rapport with the kindergarten kids and it’s pretty cool! I would have never guessed at the beginning of the year. Two thumbs up Josh!!
Met my first friends in Starbucks. I call it Ground Zero for the beginning of “life” in Taiwan. Coke was the first, then Timmy. Followed quickly by Shaq, Pie and Cindy. Who would eventually me the greatest Chinese name EVER, 戴格智 Then I got to know the staff and they got to know me. Winnie, Sylvie, Bryan, Elma, Dolphin, Rain, Eddie were my life-savers. These folks were my first up close experiences with Taiwan culture and Chinese language. For a long time I was as come to Starbucks as coffee. This is also when I first begin referring to myself as a Panda.
Discovered the sheer joy of KTV in April. Laughing, eating, drinking and singing. It doesn’t get better than that! KTV is a 24 hour a day deal. Going to KTV at 3 am is normal.
I experience my first Earth Quake ever at 2:00AM in June. This is a very bad way to wake up! Tears and vomit ensue. It was probably one of the most insecure moments of my life. My body and nerves where thrown completely out of whack. I’ve been through other earthquakes since. I still HATE them, but I don’t freak out either. There was a “big one”, by Taiwan standards, the week before Christmas. I was having dinner with friends. It would have extremely serious for if I would have been in my 14th floor apt.
Experienced my first Typhoon in August. I’d have to say it was a bit anti-climactic for me. Here in Jhongli, it was pretty calm. But unfortunately in the south many people died. It was quite horrible down there. And news reports had friends and family on high alert in the U.S. It’s nice to know people care if you live or die.
The food in Taiwan is simply delicious. Unfounded worries of me losing weight because of the food. If anything I’ve gained weight.
I began seriously with Chinese lesson in the summer, July. My Chinese is well, not very good in my opinion. 我覺得中文很困難. But the things I can say, I say very well with a decent Taiwan accent. I, like everything else in my life, have taken a more difficult path in learning Chinese. I am learning Chinese in a way that children in Taiwan learn Chinese. I am learningㄅㄆㄇㄈ , a phonetic system for learning sounds in Chinese. If I don’t understand a word when people say it, they can write it this way and I will understand better. Or at the very least add a new word to my vocabulary.
I joined a gym in March. Love the showers. Hate the number of men that walk around naked. The staff is cool, but not as cool as Starbucks. I do a body combat class twice a week to mix up my workout. I tried a step class… twice. I sucked both times. Step class is Taiwan is WAY different from the U.S. The routine just builds and builds. It seems you start with step one. By the end of class you are on step 37. It’s one long continuous routine. That’s fine. I am good through the first 5-6 consecutive steps, then I get very confused. The steps are much more difficult AND the instructions are in Chinese. I don’t feel too bad, because there are Taiwan people who can’t figure it out either..and they speak Chinese!
Found a church in the summer. It was definitely an answer to prayer at the time. I don’t attend as regularly as I did before. The language barrier is to great. 2010 will have a search for an English speaking church.
The fall led to the discovery of Thai Massage. Please resist the temptation to attach something sexual to it. It isn’t. Trust me when I say I there were, I sure as heck wouldn’t tell the whole world on my blog. It’s just a great massage. And by U.S. standards is super cheap. $1000NT for 2 hours, that’s about $34 US.
My latest adventure is riding Brutus, my motorbike. My friend Randy Rook once said God protects drunks and idiots. I’m not a drunk, so that only leaves idiot. I have felt that protection from time to time. I am beginning to ride more like a Taiwan person. I don’t know if that is necessarily a good thing, but it is certainly critical for survival on the streets of Jhongli.
All in all, it’s been a good year of growth. I still feel very much like a man in transition. There is much I haven't written about, but I think you get the point of my life. I re-signed my contract, so I will be in Taiwan another year. I am hopeful at the possibilities. I am hoping to become a better teacher, a better speaker of Chinese and maybe…. just maybe, I can find a girl friend. Wish me Luck.
Peace.
戴格智
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Moms, kids, and motorcycles
Where in the World is D Today?
Wondering how Sean and Tim would do on a motorbike... as kids?
I've adjusted in my brain my thoughts on children and scooters. Yeah, it's really dangerous, but it's a normal part of life in Taiwan. When I see kids on scooters now, I think its really cute, their innocence and seeming lack of fear. The smaller ones cling to their mom like baby Koala bears, with a helmet. Often kids stand in front of their mom or dad and hang on to the braces of the mirrors. They are "one" with the scooter.
A few weeks ago, the weather was warm and I went for a walk. While waiting for a cup of lemon green tea from my favorite tea stand, I noticed a mom getting her kids prepared for their ride. I'm guess the kids were maybe 6 and 9 years old. It's hard to tell, Taiwan kids are really small. Anyway.... she helped the younger get his little helmet on, backed the motorbike out of the space, steadied and the kids proceeded to get on. The younger stood in front of mom, nestled between her arms. The older child was struggling to climb on the back. And like something off of the nature channel, I see mom's arm reach back, lift the kid into place, makes sure she's settled and safe, the kid reaching around moms waist and off they go. The moment was pure and sweet.
This scene probably plays outs hundreds of times a day. Parents are parents all over the world. They want they kid safe and well. As I watched this, I reflected back to when Sean and Tim where young. Would the scene played out as normally as that one did? Would I be criticized for putting them on the motorbike with me? Would they have been as willing and trusting to get on it with me?
I think the answer to all of those questions are yes. I would probably get arrested for child endangerment in the U.S. Would the boys have trusted me, of course they would have, that's what kids do. And they would have been chatting up a storm, just like I see Taiwan kids do with their parents.
The question to really ask is, "Would the Darryl of his early mid 30's been willing to ride with his kids on a scooter?" The answer to that question is no, assuming a scooter would have been available to me. The 40 something Darryl sees more possibility now. I'm smarter now. I'm still a bit of a worry-wort at times, It's my nature.
When the day comes to go back to the U.S., and who knows when that might be, a motor scooter is definately in the plan. And if there's any way I can make sure the boys have one too, I will. It will be a gas crusin' with the boys on scooters!!
That thought makes me smile really big!
Peace
戴格智
Wondering how Sean and Tim would do on a motorbike... as kids?
I've adjusted in my brain my thoughts on children and scooters. Yeah, it's really dangerous, but it's a normal part of life in Taiwan. When I see kids on scooters now, I think its really cute, their innocence and seeming lack of fear. The smaller ones cling to their mom like baby Koala bears, with a helmet. Often kids stand in front of their mom or dad and hang on to the braces of the mirrors. They are "one" with the scooter.
A few weeks ago, the weather was warm and I went for a walk. While waiting for a cup of lemon green tea from my favorite tea stand, I noticed a mom getting her kids prepared for their ride. I'm guess the kids were maybe 6 and 9 years old. It's hard to tell, Taiwan kids are really small. Anyway.... she helped the younger get his little helmet on, backed the motorbike out of the space, steadied and the kids proceeded to get on. The younger stood in front of mom, nestled between her arms. The older child was struggling to climb on the back. And like something off of the nature channel, I see mom's arm reach back, lift the kid into place, makes sure she's settled and safe, the kid reaching around moms waist and off they go. The moment was pure and sweet.
This scene probably plays outs hundreds of times a day. Parents are parents all over the world. They want they kid safe and well. As I watched this, I reflected back to when Sean and Tim where young. Would the scene played out as normally as that one did? Would I be criticized for putting them on the motorbike with me? Would they have been as willing and trusting to get on it with me?
I think the answer to all of those questions are yes. I would probably get arrested for child endangerment in the U.S. Would the boys have trusted me, of course they would have, that's what kids do. And they would have been chatting up a storm, just like I see Taiwan kids do with their parents.
The question to really ask is, "Would the Darryl of his early mid 30's been willing to ride with his kids on a scooter?" The answer to that question is no, assuming a scooter would have been available to me. The 40 something Darryl sees more possibility now. I'm smarter now. I'm still a bit of a worry-wort at times, It's my nature.
When the day comes to go back to the U.S., and who knows when that might be, a motor scooter is definately in the plan. And if there's any way I can make sure the boys have one too, I will. It will be a gas crusin' with the boys on scooters!!
That thought makes me smile really big!
Peace
戴格智
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
My Day WILL come. It Just Has To!
Where in the World is D?
Sitting and wondering
10.11.09
Please note the date above.
I’m at Starbucks. I had a good workout. My body feels sore, but not hurt or injured. That’s a good feeling. I have a semi full stomach. I went for dinner, but it was not the best effort of this restaurant tonight. I’ve been there many times and also had great food. I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt of having an “off” night. So, I’m still a little hungry.
I was feeling really good, both physically and mentally. Then it happened. I looked up from my laptop to see this couple looking very lovingly at one another, and they shared a very sweet and tender kiss. My first thing I thought was, “Wow! I don’t think I’ve seen anyone do that my whole time in Taiwan.” My second thought was, “Damn, why can’t that be me?”
I know my turn is coming someday. I just hope its sooner than later.
Sitting and wondering
10.11.09
Please note the date above.
I’m at Starbucks. I had a good workout. My body feels sore, but not hurt or injured. That’s a good feeling. I have a semi full stomach. I went for dinner, but it was not the best effort of this restaurant tonight. I’ve been there many times and also had great food. I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt of having an “off” night. So, I’m still a little hungry.
I was feeling really good, both physically and mentally. Then it happened. I looked up from my laptop to see this couple looking very lovingly at one another, and they shared a very sweet and tender kiss. My first thing I thought was, “Wow! I don’t think I’ve seen anyone do that my whole time in Taiwan.” My second thought was, “Damn, why can’t that be me?”
I know my turn is coming someday. I just hope its sooner than later.
Turning the Tables
Where in the World is D?
Wondering how much of his hearing is lost. (Dang! Turn the music down just a little. My ears are bleeding!)
10.11.09
A funny thing happened at Search night club the other night. Actually two things happened but this is just about one. I’ll talk about the police raid later.
I’m not the smartest guy when it comes to women. This is a well known and documented fact. While I don’t always know when a Taiwanese woman is flirting, I do generally know when a western woman, probably American in this case, is flirting. It happened a couple of times. But as much as Taiwan people think “white girls” are SOOOOO Beautiful, I’ve been around them all my life and am not so easily impressed. Especially when just about every white women in this country has treated me like some unwelcome dog turd that someone dragged in. These girls were “cute” but VERY average. Anyway, I digress. There were a few attempts at flirtation that I all but ignored. I just wasn’t interested.
Later in the evening, to make a long explanation short, a guy named Mamba said he would bring over some girls to hang out with. Cool. You know what is about happen right?! I sitting there chillin’ like a mug, when he comes back with this group of girls. They look at me and the look on their face was just priceless. The luck was something like “F_ _k!” My look back was something along the line of “yep it’s me again, and I still don’t want to hang with you.” There was some talking in the group and they turn around and leave.
If you’re one of those nice guys like me, who have often been rejected for whatever reason by a cute girl, This ones for you buddy!
This might make me a bad person, but it felt good to be on the other end of that equation.
Good Luck
戴格智
Wondering how much of his hearing is lost. (Dang! Turn the music down just a little. My ears are bleeding!)
10.11.09
A funny thing happened at Search night club the other night. Actually two things happened but this is just about one. I’ll talk about the police raid later.
I’m not the smartest guy when it comes to women. This is a well known and documented fact. While I don’t always know when a Taiwanese woman is flirting, I do generally know when a western woman, probably American in this case, is flirting. It happened a couple of times. But as much as Taiwan people think “white girls” are SOOOOO Beautiful, I’ve been around them all my life and am not so easily impressed. Especially when just about every white women in this country has treated me like some unwelcome dog turd that someone dragged in. These girls were “cute” but VERY average. Anyway, I digress. There were a few attempts at flirtation that I all but ignored. I just wasn’t interested.
Later in the evening, to make a long explanation short, a guy named Mamba said he would bring over some girls to hang out with. Cool. You know what is about happen right?! I sitting there chillin’ like a mug, when he comes back with this group of girls. They look at me and the look on their face was just priceless. The luck was something like “F_ _k!” My look back was something along the line of “yep it’s me again, and I still don’t want to hang with you.” There was some talking in the group and they turn around and leave.
If you’re one of those nice guys like me, who have often been rejected for whatever reason by a cute girl, This ones for you buddy!
This might make me a bad person, but it felt good to be on the other end of that equation.
Good Luck
戴格智
Monday, September 28, 2009
Why I've Been Silent part1
Where in the World is D Today?
Trying to figure out a new path out of this cave.
OK, here's the deal. My mood over the last 2 months has been bad.... real bad. I used to know the way out when I would get in these funks. But things are different now. I can't describe it really other than to say my circumstances are different. I'm still the same guy, I think, but being in Taiwan has given this..... thing... a new dimension.
I don't know if you can call emotions a thing but I haven't got the words. And that's just it, no clarity of thought. I manage to do my teaching very well. In class, I'm ALL There. Away from class.... I'm a total flake.
So how is my mood today? Ah.... So-so. But when I'm in a funk, I don't feel like writing. The great irony in that is writing helps the funk dissipate. I am hoping it will help a little tonight. After I post this I will go to bed. Writing helps get stuff out of my head. But when I'm in "flake mode" its hard to gather up those thoughts and shepherd them out of my head and onto the page.
I am trying to get back in the habit of writing. If you are a regular reader, thanks. Not so much for reading but for being interested in me, for whatever reason. I feel a lot of isolation. If someone shows interest in me, I'm always a little surprised. (sorry my self-esteem is not at it's optimum right now.)
Good Luck
D
Trying to figure out a new path out of this cave.
OK, here's the deal. My mood over the last 2 months has been bad.... real bad. I used to know the way out when I would get in these funks. But things are different now. I can't describe it really other than to say my circumstances are different. I'm still the same guy, I think, but being in Taiwan has given this..... thing... a new dimension.
I don't know if you can call emotions a thing but I haven't got the words. And that's just it, no clarity of thought. I manage to do my teaching very well. In class, I'm ALL There. Away from class.... I'm a total flake.
So how is my mood today? Ah.... So-so. But when I'm in a funk, I don't feel like writing. The great irony in that is writing helps the funk dissipate. I am hoping it will help a little tonight. After I post this I will go to bed. Writing helps get stuff out of my head. But when I'm in "flake mode" its hard to gather up those thoughts and shepherd them out of my head and onto the page.
I am trying to get back in the habit of writing. If you are a regular reader, thanks. Not so much for reading but for being interested in me, for whatever reason. I feel a lot of isolation. If someone shows interest in me, I'm always a little surprised. (sorry my self-esteem is not at it's optimum right now.)
Good Luck
D
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Something Made Smile Today
Where in the World is D?
Coming Up Air.
My last few posts to the blog have been .... well..... Not terribly encouraging. So I thought I would tell you something today that made me smile.
I got to TEACH!
Yeah, that's it. Nothing earth shaking or deeply thoughtful. No grand revelation or Salma Hayek proposing to me. Just teaching.
I like teaching. Sometimes, I am most at peace in the classroom. I'm sure there's some deep psychological reason, but I'm not going to over think it. I'm just going to enjoy the feeling.
Good Luck!
戴格智
Coming Up Air.
My last few posts to the blog have been .... well..... Not terribly encouraging. So I thought I would tell you something today that made me smile.
I got to TEACH!
Yeah, that's it. Nothing earth shaking or deeply thoughtful. No grand revelation or Salma Hayek proposing to me. Just teaching.
I like teaching. Sometimes, I am most at peace in the classroom. I'm sure there's some deep psychological reason, but I'm not going to over think it. I'm just going to enjoy the feeling.
Good Luck!
戴格智
Monday, August 31, 2009
A New School Year
Where in the World is D today?
Looking over the balcony at joyful kids running and playing.
Today is the first day of school. It's been a really quiet day for me. I'm looking forward to spending a whole year with my students. I want to see what I and they can do in a whole year.
Coming in the middle of the year last year was an interestest transition for us all. This job, as much as I love it, can be filled with periods of ...... inactivity. Today's one of those days. So I watch the kids on their break and smile.
I want to be a good teacher. It's the one the few thing I don't question in my life. I know I can teach. I want to get in there and do it! (Somebody keep note of that when I'm feeling less enthusiastic in the future.)
But in the meantime, I will soak up all that unbridaled energy and try to focus it into something strong.
Peace
戴格智
Looking over the balcony at joyful kids running and playing.
Today is the first day of school. It's been a really quiet day for me. I'm looking forward to spending a whole year with my students. I want to see what I and they can do in a whole year.
Coming in the middle of the year last year was an interestest transition for us all. This job, as much as I love it, can be filled with periods of ...... inactivity. Today's one of those days. So I watch the kids on their break and smile.
I want to be a good teacher. It's the one the few thing I don't question in my life. I know I can teach. I want to get in there and do it! (Somebody keep note of that when I'm feeling less enthusiastic in the future.)
But in the meantime, I will soak up all that unbridaled energy and try to focus it into something strong.
Peace
戴格智
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Simple and Mundane
Where in the World is D Today?
Nowhere. Today is the same as yesterday and the day before that.
A few days ago I was chatting online with Tim's girlfriend, Alia. Alia is truly one of my favorite people on this earth. During the chat she made a comment that was something like, "Since you left you have all this crazy stuff happen to you." I of course responded with I only write about the "interesting" stuff and my life is not as crazy as it may appear on the blog. If I work to keep a daily account of my life on the blog, it would look a little something like this.....
Got up. Turned on CNN. (CNN in Tawain is Different than in the U.S. It's based in Hong Kong and doesn't have any national focus. It's very global.)
More coverage of "The Ashes" Cricket tournament?! Good lord, how long is this match going to be?! And who cares. Do I really need to know the weather in Mumbai?
Take a shower, have a glass of doujiang (soybean milk) and some bread. And I'm out the door.
Walk to work. Waved at 4 people along the way.
Said one generic good morning to my co-corkes when I come in, turn on my computer and get some hot water for my morning cup of liu cha (green tea).
Check my email, and MSN.
Check the U.S. news on the internet.
*Depending on the day, I am either teaching, surfing the net, or chatting on MSN, or practicing my Chinese. It will probably be some combination of all those activities on any given day.
Get of work and walk to Starbucks or the gym.
Get some dinner, walk home.
Talk to Jackie, the doorman, for a few minutes and go to my apartment.
Check my mail, maybe chat on msn, maybe watch a movie. Read a little Go to bed.
There you have it. My life in a nutshell. Not very interesting.
Is there more stuff that happens during the day, yeah, but I don't think you want to read. "Crossed the street 100 times today and didn't die."
Being the thinker that I am, my brain is of course a lot more active than my body.
My thoughts as I walk from point to point range from the ridiculous, "I wish I could make all time stop! And if I could what would I do?" To the really Duh, that's so obvious, "Boy, this walk would be a lot easier if the sidewalk was level." But lately most of my thoughts as I walk are about my foot, which still hurts, and if I am "Doing whatever it is in Taiwan I'm supposed to be doing." You know my regular search for meaning and purpose.
So there you have it, My so-called life in a nutshell. I shouldn't be sarcastic. I have a good life. Today I was able to get out of the bed; think, dress, eat, and go to the bathroom on my own. A lot of people who wanted to, couldn't do that today. So even as I search for meaning and the ever elusive peace and comfort, I know it could be worse and I am truly thankful for my simple and mundane life.
Peace
戴格智
Nowhere. Today is the same as yesterday and the day before that.
A few days ago I was chatting online with Tim's girlfriend, Alia. Alia is truly one of my favorite people on this earth. During the chat she made a comment that was something like, "Since you left you have all this crazy stuff happen to you." I of course responded with I only write about the "interesting" stuff and my life is not as crazy as it may appear on the blog. If I work to keep a daily account of my life on the blog, it would look a little something like this.....
Got up. Turned on CNN. (CNN in Tawain is Different than in the U.S. It's based in Hong Kong and doesn't have any national focus. It's very global.)
More coverage of "The Ashes" Cricket tournament?! Good lord, how long is this match going to be?! And who cares. Do I really need to know the weather in Mumbai?
Take a shower, have a glass of doujiang (soybean milk) and some bread. And I'm out the door.
Walk to work. Waved at 4 people along the way.
Said one generic good morning to my co-corkes when I come in, turn on my computer and get some hot water for my morning cup of liu cha (green tea).
Check my email, and MSN.
Check the U.S. news on the internet.
*Depending on the day, I am either teaching, surfing the net, or chatting on MSN, or practicing my Chinese. It will probably be some combination of all those activities on any given day.
Get of work and walk to Starbucks or the gym.
Get some dinner, walk home.
Talk to Jackie, the doorman, for a few minutes and go to my apartment.
Check my mail, maybe chat on msn, maybe watch a movie. Read a little Go to bed.
There you have it. My life in a nutshell. Not very interesting.
Is there more stuff that happens during the day, yeah, but I don't think you want to read. "Crossed the street 100 times today and didn't die."
Being the thinker that I am, my brain is of course a lot more active than my body.
My thoughts as I walk from point to point range from the ridiculous, "I wish I could make all time stop! And if I could what would I do?" To the really Duh, that's so obvious, "Boy, this walk would be a lot easier if the sidewalk was level." But lately most of my thoughts as I walk are about my foot, which still hurts, and if I am "Doing whatever it is in Taiwan I'm supposed to be doing." You know my regular search for meaning and purpose.
So there you have it, My so-called life in a nutshell. I shouldn't be sarcastic. I have a good life. Today I was able to get out of the bed; think, dress, eat, and go to the bathroom on my own. A lot of people who wanted to, couldn't do that today. So even as I search for meaning and the ever elusive peace and comfort, I know it could be worse and I am truly thankful for my simple and mundane life.
Peace
戴格智
Monday, August 17, 2009
A Few Thoughts On the Health Care Debate
Where in the World is D Today?
Smiling About His Health Care in Taiwan.
I will try to make this simple and not a long rant.
I have been following the debate, or rather the scare tactics of the republicans. I am also totally amazed at what people will believe! I am also very disappointed in the level of Racism in this argument directed towards President Obama...... OK, the rant is being so I will stop... for the moment.
Here's the deal. I have gotten hurt a few times in the last month. Each time I was able to get affordable health care. Today when I went to the doctor I received acupuncture, some sort of steam treatment, massage and a medical wrap; plus two wraps to put on tomorrow. All for 100NT. In U.S. Dollars, that is about $3.50. Yes, you read that right, $3.50!
Taiwan has a National Health Care System, that even a foreigner can use. I buy into it just like everybody else. And my monthly premiums are about 1/3 of what I would pay in the U.S.
OK, for those of you that think, I'm not getting "real" medical care, I am not a doctor, but I know I feel better, faster than I would in the U.S.! And, for the record, x-rays and other "Western" medical treatments are covered as well. Again, for far less, than what I would pay in the U.S. I've had those services as well.
So, All of this is to give you a first had account that a National Health Care system can and does work. And I get treated in the office. I don't have to make an appointment to see another series of doctors in another office on another day. I saw one Doctor and two specialists today. All in the same office thank you very much.
The health care system here works. Period. AND also for the record, if you want to see a special/personal doctor you can. You pay extra for it, but that's fair. You can get the service you want.
I know the U.S. is a larger country, but our biggest obstacle is history. We've never done anything like this, that alone makes it hard. Throw in all the competing financial interests of pharmaceutical and insurance companies and you have a major fight on your hands.
But what if Americas leaders decided that people should be helped more than protecting the profit margins of corporations.
America revolves around capitalism. There is no changing that. And quite frankly, I do not want to. Capitalism itself isn't bad. Pharmaceutical and insurance companies should be allowed to make a profit. But in a free market system, let's see what the market can bear. If corporations do indeed have a better product, then they'll be fine. A national system won't hurt. Except maybe their profit margin will be 100 billion instead of 300. We're still talking about 100 BILLION. That's still a lot of profit.
In the end everybody wins. We get a healthier nation AND people make money. Why Not. But it will take guts on the part of Congress. Correction, it doesn't take guts, it take having the backbone to do the work of the people, put peoples needs and interests first.
That will make our great nation even better.
Peace
戴格智
Smiling About His Health Care in Taiwan.
I will try to make this simple and not a long rant.
I have been following the debate, or rather the scare tactics of the republicans. I am also totally amazed at what people will believe! I am also very disappointed in the level of Racism in this argument directed towards President Obama...... OK, the rant is being so I will stop... for the moment.
Here's the deal. I have gotten hurt a few times in the last month. Each time I was able to get affordable health care. Today when I went to the doctor I received acupuncture, some sort of steam treatment, massage and a medical wrap; plus two wraps to put on tomorrow. All for 100NT. In U.S. Dollars, that is about $3.50. Yes, you read that right, $3.50!
Taiwan has a National Health Care System, that even a foreigner can use. I buy into it just like everybody else. And my monthly premiums are about 1/3 of what I would pay in the U.S.
OK, for those of you that think, I'm not getting "real" medical care, I am not a doctor, but I know I feel better, faster than I would in the U.S.! And, for the record, x-rays and other "Western" medical treatments are covered as well. Again, for far less, than what I would pay in the U.S. I've had those services as well.
So, All of this is to give you a first had account that a National Health Care system can and does work. And I get treated in the office. I don't have to make an appointment to see another series of doctors in another office on another day. I saw one Doctor and two specialists today. All in the same office thank you very much.
The health care system here works. Period. AND also for the record, if you want to see a special/personal doctor you can. You pay extra for it, but that's fair. You can get the service you want.
I know the U.S. is a larger country, but our biggest obstacle is history. We've never done anything like this, that alone makes it hard. Throw in all the competing financial interests of pharmaceutical and insurance companies and you have a major fight on your hands.
But what if Americas leaders decided that people should be helped more than protecting the profit margins of corporations.
America revolves around capitalism. There is no changing that. And quite frankly, I do not want to. Capitalism itself isn't bad. Pharmaceutical and insurance companies should be allowed to make a profit. But in a free market system, let's see what the market can bear. If corporations do indeed have a better product, then they'll be fine. A national system won't hurt. Except maybe their profit margin will be 100 billion instead of 300. We're still talking about 100 BILLION. That's still a lot of profit.
In the end everybody wins. We get a healthier nation AND people make money. Why Not. But it will take guts on the part of Congress. Correction, it doesn't take guts, it take having the backbone to do the work of the people, put peoples needs and interests first.
That will make our great nation even better.
Peace
戴格智
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Thoreau Is Deep and Obvious - Typhoon Day 3
Where in the World is D?
Hangin'Out With Henry David Thoreau.
The problem with not having internet or cable during a typhoon is it gives one, more specifically me, too much time to poke around inside my own psyche. I've always been a deep thinker about the world and my place in it. So to my friends who say, "you think too much." I say, well... maybe. But how do any of us grow lest we put thought into the what's, why's, and how's of life.
I don't think you can really make a living at philosophy, nor am I trying to, so I offer the following quotes by Thoreau to express my current thoughts and feelings, the dichotomy of those feelings and a short response to each.
"The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation." 大眾的男子導致生活安靜絕望。I don't know about the mass of men, but this definitely me these days.
"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."
這不是什麼你看看這問題，那是你看到的。Being able to see the difference between Your truth, My truth and the real truth is the challenge isn't it?
"Things do not change; we change." 事情並沒有改變，我們的變化。Hmmm. Time is the Only constant in the universe. Whether you call it minutes, hours, or days. It Always goes at the same rate with the rising and setting of the sun each day. If the sun stops rising in the east and setting in the west, we are going to have a VERY BAD DAY. Outside the passing of time, CHANGE in inevitable. Knowing when to change AND what change to make is the trick.
Peace
戴格智
Hangin'Out With Henry David Thoreau.
The problem with not having internet or cable during a typhoon is it gives one, more specifically me, too much time to poke around inside my own psyche. I've always been a deep thinker about the world and my place in it. So to my friends who say, "you think too much." I say, well... maybe. But how do any of us grow lest we put thought into the what's, why's, and how's of life.
I don't think you can really make a living at philosophy, nor am I trying to, so I offer the following quotes by Thoreau to express my current thoughts and feelings, the dichotomy of those feelings and a short response to each.
"The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation." 大眾的男子導致生活安靜絕望。I don't know about the mass of men, but this definitely me these days.
"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."
這不是什麼你看看這問題，那是你看到的。Being able to see the difference between Your truth, My truth and the real truth is the challenge isn't it?
"Things do not change; we change." 事情並沒有改變，我們的變化。Hmmm. Time is the Only constant in the universe. Whether you call it minutes, hours, or days. It Always goes at the same rate with the rising and setting of the sun each day. If the sun stops rising in the east and setting in the west, we are going to have a VERY BAD DAY. Outside the passing of time, CHANGE in inevitable. Knowing when to change AND what change to make is the trick.
Peace
戴格智
Friday, August 7, 2009
Typhoon Day!! Day 1
Where in the World is D Today?
Chillin' at Starbucks.
Today I didn't have to work because it's a Typhoon Day! Here in Jhongli, it's not too bad, so far. I walked to Starbucks without any problems. The hardest part of my walk was convincing the guy outside the KTV I really did NOT want to come in for a beer.
*That will make sense to Taiwan people, but not to everybody else. In short, there are two types of KTV. One type of KTV you go sing with your friends, be silly and have fun. The other KTV men go to, "to have a..... beer" You can fill in the blanks yourself.
Since I have the basic philosophy and personality type that will talk to anybody who is friendly to me, it sometimes leads to interesting and sometimes comical situations. The KTV guys are usually very nice to me but usually don't speak English. So the explanations of "beer" are usually physical gestures and pretty descriptive. Everybody usually has a pretty good laugh at it. Like I said, they're always nice to me. But I have enough Chinese now, that I can tell them No, I don't want that. They smile and wave and say bye-bye. Sometimes they give me a card and shake my hand. I have generally stopped going down the streets where I know that I will get approached. But it was during the day and these places are generally closed early afternoon. But maybe they open early on Typhoon Days! Or maybe everybody doesn't get the day off for Typhoon Days. Starbucks is open, so why not KTV. The service industry is the service industry no matter how you slice it, right? HA!
They rest of my Typhoon day looks to be a bit boring. My landlord didn't pay the internet/cable bill!! I'm irritated on multiple levels. There's a Typhoon and I'm completely cut off from the world unless I go out in to the dang Typhoon to use the internet at starbucks.
I went to the gym but it was closed for the Typhoon Day. It should be noted that I do understand why some places are closed. People commute from all over. So just because it is sort of calm in Jhongli, another county may be getting hammered. So it is safest to NOT make people go to work. So I'll keep hanging out here at Starbucks for a bit. Do some Chinese homework, etc. I can write my Chinese name now. It takes about a full minute to do. But that is a big improvement from it taking 2-3 minutes just to write the first word!
That'll do it for now.
Peace
戴格智
Chillin' at Starbucks.
Today I didn't have to work because it's a Typhoon Day! Here in Jhongli, it's not too bad, so far. I walked to Starbucks without any problems. The hardest part of my walk was convincing the guy outside the KTV I really did NOT want to come in for a beer.
*That will make sense to Taiwan people, but not to everybody else. In short, there are two types of KTV. One type of KTV you go sing with your friends, be silly and have fun. The other KTV men go to, "to have a..... beer" You can fill in the blanks yourself.
Since I have the basic philosophy and personality type that will talk to anybody who is friendly to me, it sometimes leads to interesting and sometimes comical situations. The KTV guys are usually very nice to me but usually don't speak English. So the explanations of "beer" are usually physical gestures and pretty descriptive. Everybody usually has a pretty good laugh at it. Like I said, they're always nice to me. But I have enough Chinese now, that I can tell them No, I don't want that. They smile and wave and say bye-bye. Sometimes they give me a card and shake my hand. I have generally stopped going down the streets where I know that I will get approached. But it was during the day and these places are generally closed early afternoon. But maybe they open early on Typhoon Days! Or maybe everybody doesn't get the day off for Typhoon Days. Starbucks is open, so why not KTV. The service industry is the service industry no matter how you slice it, right? HA!
They rest of my Typhoon day looks to be a bit boring. My landlord didn't pay the internet/cable bill!! I'm irritated on multiple levels. There's a Typhoon and I'm completely cut off from the world unless I go out in to the dang Typhoon to use the internet at starbucks.
I went to the gym but it was closed for the Typhoon Day. It should be noted that I do understand why some places are closed. People commute from all over. So just because it is sort of calm in Jhongli, another county may be getting hammered. So it is safest to NOT make people go to work. So I'll keep hanging out here at Starbucks for a bit. Do some Chinese homework, etc. I can write my Chinese name now. It takes about a full minute to do. But that is a big improvement from it taking 2-3 minutes just to write the first word!
That'll do it for now.
Peace
戴格智
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Earth Quakes are bad. Seriously... I mean BAD
Where in the World is D today?
Recovering from his first Earth Quake!
By Taiwan standards, they said it was small. By Columbia, MO standards is HUGE!
2:00 A.M. The whole world starts to shake and sway. This is a bad way to wake up. I live on the 14th floor. (I'm told this increases the effect by some measure.)
I don't know how long it went on officially, but it seemed an enternity.
My reactions, In the order I can recall them: Disorientation. Fear. Panic. Body Shaking. Vomit. Tears. Body Shaking. Breathing. Staring Outside. Staring at the Ceiling. Loneliness. Isolation. Waiting for Sunrise.
Give me a tornado ANY DAY! I understand tornado's. Earth Quakes are FUBAR.
(If you don't know FUBAR, send me an email and I'll explain it. There is a really bad word in this Acronym I don't want to use in public.)
Recovering from his first Earth Quake!
By Taiwan standards, they said it was small. By Columbia, MO standards is HUGE!
2:00 A.M. The whole world starts to shake and sway. This is a bad way to wake up. I live on the 14th floor. (I'm told this increases the effect by some measure.)
I don't know how long it went on officially, but it seemed an enternity.
My reactions, In the order I can recall them: Disorientation. Fear. Panic. Body Shaking. Vomit. Tears. Body Shaking. Breathing. Staring Outside. Staring at the Ceiling. Loneliness. Isolation. Waiting for Sunrise.
Give me a tornado ANY DAY! I understand tornado's. Earth Quakes are FUBAR.
(If you don't know FUBAR, send me an email and I'll explain it. There is a really bad word in this Acronym I don't want to use in public.)
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Did I Really Just Say That?!
Where in the World is D Today?
Laughing At What He Just Said, OUT LOUD.
There are some things that I’ve said ‘out loud’ in the last 5 months that I can not imagine I would have said before coming to Taiwan. Here’s the list I’ve been keeping:
What the heck is the cleaning lady doing in here? (I said this while standing at a urinal.)
Dude! Argyle socks at the gym?!
I REALLY LIKE Tofu and Soybean milk!
There's more than one type of Tofu?!
Why are the shoes wrapped in plastic?
It has got to take special skill to wear a mini-skirt and pumps when riding a scooter. But women manage it well.
You just line-cut me for Luu Wei!
Wah Cao!
A woman in the men’s room would have seemed odd 5 months ago. (Again, said while standing at a urinal.)
Are you kidding me? A pink helmet! Dude!
I was just trying to say 7, 8!
Umm… do you think you can drive on the other side of the street?
Have you ever heard of Super Dave?
KTV is so cool!
Really! I’m not making this up! For a long time, Bubbles was his best friend in the world.
OK….... I’m guessing the middle finger here means the same as it does in the U.S.
Smoking and texting while driving a scooter seems like a bad idea to me. I'm just sayin'...
Children in Taiwan are fearless. (referring to little kids on scooters)
They do WHAT?! In Thailand!! (referring to a conversation about transgendered males.)
No way that’s a dude! He makes a very pretty girl. (again, about transgendered males in Thailand.)
No Thanks, shooting at each other with BB guns that look and shoot like machine guns isn’t my idea of a good time. (This is from a conversation with another Westerner. Canadians.. go figure.) LOL
Beetle nuts aren’t made out of beetles?! Are They?
No, I DON’T want to choose snake for soup.
I like the way it tastes. Don’t ruin it by telling me what it is.
Note to self: Stop speaking in metaphors and movie quotes.
Chinese R&B... That's a phrase I would have never said a month ago.
Where can I by a mask?
I am the exception to the "foreigner guy" rule.
No, people don’t treat me like an animal. Panda is just a metaphor.
I have GOT to learn Chinese faster!
Don’t be upset at me. I didn’t make up the name. There’s a reason they call it Stinky Tofu!
I am Free Entertainment at the gym. Especially step class!
I don't think asking someone to take their mask off BEFORE going into the is asking too much.
I appreciate the faith you have in me, but I think it’s a bad idea for me to drive.
Laughing At What He Just Said, OUT LOUD.
There are some things that I’ve said ‘out loud’ in the last 5 months that I can not imagine I would have said before coming to Taiwan. Here’s the list I’ve been keeping:
What the heck is the cleaning lady doing in here? (I said this while standing at a urinal.)
Dude! Argyle socks at the gym?!
I REALLY LIKE Tofu and Soybean milk!
There's more than one type of Tofu?!
Why are the shoes wrapped in plastic?
It has got to take special skill to wear a mini-skirt and pumps when riding a scooter. But women manage it well.
You just line-cut me for Luu Wei!
Wah Cao!
A woman in the men’s room would have seemed odd 5 months ago. (Again, said while standing at a urinal.)
Are you kidding me? A pink helmet! Dude!
I was just trying to say 7, 8!
Umm… do you think you can drive on the other side of the street?
Have you ever heard of Super Dave?
KTV is so cool!
Really! I’m not making this up! For a long time, Bubbles was his best friend in the world.
OK….... I’m guessing the middle finger here means the same as it does in the U.S.
Smoking and texting while driving a scooter seems like a bad idea to me. I'm just sayin'...
Children in Taiwan are fearless. (referring to little kids on scooters)
They do WHAT?! In Thailand!! (referring to a conversation about transgendered males.)
No way that’s a dude! He makes a very pretty girl. (again, about transgendered males in Thailand.)
No Thanks, shooting at each other with BB guns that look and shoot like machine guns isn’t my idea of a good time. (This is from a conversation with another Westerner. Canadians.. go figure.) LOL
Beetle nuts aren’t made out of beetles?! Are They?
No, I DON’T want to choose snake for soup.
I like the way it tastes. Don’t ruin it by telling me what it is.
Note to self: Stop speaking in metaphors and movie quotes.
Chinese R&B... That's a phrase I would have never said a month ago.
Where can I by a mask?
I am the exception to the "foreigner guy" rule.
No, people don’t treat me like an animal. Panda is just a metaphor.
I have GOT to learn Chinese faster!
Don’t be upset at me. I didn’t make up the name. There’s a reason they call it Stinky Tofu!
I am Free Entertainment at the gym. Especially step class!
I don't think asking someone to take their mask off BEFORE going into the is asking too much.
I appreciate the faith you have in me, but I think it’s a bad idea for me to drive.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
President Obama and Me
Where in the World is D Today?
Reading the News and Being Reminded Why He Loves President Obama.
You may or may not know that I worked for the Obama Presidential campaign in Missouri last year. I walked many miles, knocked on lots of doors, and would talk to anybody in person who wanted to have a conversation about him. (I didn’t work the phones very much. I would rather walk around in the heat, cold and rain; Anything but phone banks.) Anyway…..
Every morning I check the World and U.S. news online. This morning I saw a rather silly story about the President’s smoking habit. Are you kidding me, you’re busting his chops over the occasional cigarette?! The man’s got a lot on his plate, let’s cut him some slack on the little stuff. I think Mrs. Obama will keep him inline about smoking. Then I stumbled on these two links that affirmed in me many of the reasons I love this man. Here are the links. (Sorry you have to copy and paste. I'm not tech smart enough to get the links to work.)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31451371/ns/fathers_day_guide/?pg=8#tdy_Parenting_ObamaGreatDad
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/11/10/obama-parenting-pda-slide_n_142625.html
Reading the News and Being Reminded Why He Loves President Obama.
You may or may not know that I worked for the Obama Presidential campaign in Missouri last year. I walked many miles, knocked on lots of doors, and would talk to anybody in person who wanted to have a conversation about him. (I didn’t work the phones very much. I would rather walk around in the heat, cold and rain; Anything but phone banks.) Anyway…..
Every morning I check the World and U.S. news online. This morning I saw a rather silly story about the President’s smoking habit. Are you kidding me, you’re busting his chops over the occasional cigarette?! The man’s got a lot on his plate, let’s cut him some slack on the little stuff. I think Mrs. Obama will keep him inline about smoking. Then I stumbled on these two links that affirmed in me many of the reasons I love this man. Here are the links. (Sorry you have to copy and paste. I'm not tech smart enough to get the links to work.)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31451371/ns/fathers_day_guide/?pg=8#tdy_Parenting_ObamaGreatDad
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/11/10/obama-parenting-pda-slide_n_142625.html
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Do Good Because It's Good. More Adventures in Teaching.
Where in the World is D Today?
Wondering will happen to his 6th grade students.
There are few things I desire more in life than to do good. Maybe it's because I have a huge ego, though I don't think it's that. Maybe it's because finding purpose in life. I don't think it's that either. Maybe it's because I feel like an NBA player next to some of these kids. Nope! That ain't it either. It's pretty simple. I want to do good because my daddy taught me to. I love that man! And ultimately, I think every person that goes into teaching does it because they want to do good in the world. Even if they were raised by my Pop.
Is there something personally very cool and affirming when a kid finally understands whatever it was you were trying to teach them. There's this small celebration everytime that happens. But it's a terrible feeling when they don't understand what in the world you're talking about. Every teacher who reads this has experienced the extremes of joy and agony we get from our kids.
Today was the 6th grade graduation at Chungli Elementary School. Even though it's only be 5 months, I can say quite easily, "These are MY babies!" That is the connection I have with them personally, when in fact, they are the babies of their everyday classroom teacher. That is the person who has made the deepest and most important impact in their lives. I'm just the cool foreigner guy who comes in once a week. But I still think I made a positive and significant impact in their young lives.
I wonder what will happen to my babies. Their path is still set for the next 6 years. Will I ever see them again, not likely. How many future teachers are in this group? Many I hope because they have Good Hearts. And the profession needs lots of good hearts.
I love being a teacher. I love my students. And I think they like me a little bit too. A couple of the boys gave me flowers, a mark of deep appreciation. So did I do Good in their world? Yeah, I think so, maybe just a little.
Enjoy the pics from the day.
Wondering will happen to his 6th grade students.
There are few things I desire more in life than to do good. Maybe it's because I have a huge ego, though I don't think it's that. Maybe it's because finding purpose in life. I don't think it's that either. Maybe it's because I feel like an NBA player next to some of these kids. Nope! That ain't it either. It's pretty simple. I want to do good because my daddy taught me to. I love that man! And ultimately, I think every person that goes into teaching does it because they want to do good in the world. Even if they were raised by my Pop.
Is there something personally very cool and affirming when a kid finally understands whatever it was you were trying to teach them. There's this small celebration everytime that happens. But it's a terrible feeling when they don't understand what in the world you're talking about. Every teacher who reads this has experienced the extremes of joy and agony we get from our kids.
Today was the 6th grade graduation at Chungli Elementary School. Even though it's only be 5 months, I can say quite easily, "These are MY babies!" That is the connection I have with them personally, when in fact, they are the babies of their everyday classroom teacher. That is the person who has made the deepest and most important impact in their lives. I'm just the cool foreigner guy who comes in once a week. But I still think I made a positive and significant impact in their young lives.
I wonder what will happen to my babies. Their path is still set for the next 6 years. Will I ever see them again, not likely. How many future teachers are in this group? Many I hope because they have Good Hearts. And the profession needs lots of good hearts.
I love being a teacher. I love my students. And I think they like me a little bit too. A couple of the boys gave me flowers, a mark of deep appreciation. So did I do Good in their world? Yeah, I think so, maybe just a little.
Enjoy the pics from the day.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Teaching Salsa to New Taiwanese Friends
Where in the World is D Today?
Dancing at Church!
Ecclesiastes promises us that there is a time for everything. A time for singing, a time for crying, a time for planting and sowing and dying, and Yes, even a time for dancing (Chapter 3:4). The need to dance is wound into the very fabric of my DNA. I can’t, NOT dance! I grew up in the Nazarene church. Dancing was a strict NO NO. I never got on board with that. So when I was asked to teach Salsa at my new church, I was more than pleasantly surprised. I was shocked!
Last Saturday night was the first class. I could just kick myself because I forgot my camera. Not only did the people in the my group show up to learn salsa, at one point the pastor was there trying it to. How cool is that?! I love this new church! And just for the record Pastor Wang is a very good preacher! She’s brought an awesome message every week I’ve heard her preach. Back to the subject….
There are major cultural differences here in Taiwan. I have not been told that it is forbidden, but touching the opposite sex in public is unusual. Touching is a critical element in any part of couples dancing, but even more so in Salsa. So that really concerned me going into the night. While the men seemed WAY OUT of their comfort zone. The women were just fine. I was most concerned about offending them. I am still the odd man out and do not want to offend. I worried if a basic frame would be too far, not to mention the occasional touch in the back or waist that is common is salsa. But everyone seemed ok.
The men need extra attention, as should be expected. Salsa needs a confident male lead. I hope I have a chance to work with the men alone sometime. They did better when I danced the woman’s part with them. I have nothing but respect for them. I can remember when I first learned salsa, I couldn’t figure it out either, AND I grew up dancing! So the men have my uttermost admiration just for showing up and trying. I do truly believe that anybody can learn to dance. If you can walk, you can dance. Salsa is nothing more than very cool walking in place, to music.
I look forward to more dancing in church. My new friends can let out their inner Latino/Latina and we all will smile knowing there is a time to dance.
Dancing at Church!
Ecclesiastes promises us that there is a time for everything. A time for singing, a time for crying, a time for planting and sowing and dying, and Yes, even a time for dancing (Chapter 3:4). The need to dance is wound into the very fabric of my DNA. I can’t, NOT dance! I grew up in the Nazarene church. Dancing was a strict NO NO. I never got on board with that. So when I was asked to teach Salsa at my new church, I was more than pleasantly surprised. I was shocked!
Last Saturday night was the first class. I could just kick myself because I forgot my camera. Not only did the people in the my group show up to learn salsa, at one point the pastor was there trying it to. How cool is that?! I love this new church! And just for the record Pastor Wang is a very good preacher! She’s brought an awesome message every week I’ve heard her preach. Back to the subject….
There are major cultural differences here in Taiwan. I have not been told that it is forbidden, but touching the opposite sex in public is unusual. Touching is a critical element in any part of couples dancing, but even more so in Salsa. So that really concerned me going into the night. While the men seemed WAY OUT of their comfort zone. The women were just fine. I was most concerned about offending them. I am still the odd man out and do not want to offend. I worried if a basic frame would be too far, not to mention the occasional touch in the back or waist that is common is salsa. But everyone seemed ok.
The men need extra attention, as should be expected. Salsa needs a confident male lead. I hope I have a chance to work with the men alone sometime. They did better when I danced the woman’s part with them. I have nothing but respect for them. I can remember when I first learned salsa, I couldn’t figure it out either, AND I grew up dancing! So the men have my uttermost admiration just for showing up and trying. I do truly believe that anybody can learn to dance. If you can walk, you can dance. Salsa is nothing more than very cool walking in place, to music.
I look forward to more dancing in church. My new friends can let out their inner Latino/Latina and we all will smile knowing there is a time to dance.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Throwin' a Shout Out To "My Gurl Tracy"!
Where in the World is D Today?
LMAO! (For my Taiwanese friends, LMAO means Laughing My Ass Off!)
I have known Tracy going on 16 years I think. (Dang it’s been a long time!) Tracy, did I get that right? Anyway, I met Tracy when I worked for the Missouri Dept. of Education. She was working for the Kansas City, Missouri School District. What began as a working relationship steadily grew into a solid friendship. And with all long term friendships, you wander in and out of each others lives. Some periods you talk, or email a couple of times a week. Other times, you catch up with each other after 9-10 months. The important this is you keep seeking each other out. Right now, Tracy and I are in a good communication groove.
Tracy and I have always been able to talk easily about the joys and pains of life, but especially about each others relationships. Sometimes we give the other advice, but mostly it is a back and for of, “He/she did what?” or (She said what?! Oh hell no! Don’t make me have to come to Columbia!) LOL as I write this.
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote on this blog “My Birthday Part 2, or My Life As a Panda”. Tracy was able to see what I was saying. Or at the very least she is the only one to tell me she understood what I was saying and acknowleded the bitter-sweet nature of being, “the cool foreigner guy”. When I talk to Tracy it’s like being back on the block, but a helluva lot safer. We chat and read each others blog, thoughts and ideas and most importantly, Laugh. And that is … Say it with me people, AWESOME!
LMAO! (For my Taiwanese friends, LMAO means Laughing My Ass Off!)
I have known Tracy going on 16 years I think. (Dang it’s been a long time!) Tracy, did I get that right? Anyway, I met Tracy when I worked for the Missouri Dept. of Education. She was working for the Kansas City, Missouri School District. What began as a working relationship steadily grew into a solid friendship. And with all long term friendships, you wander in and out of each others lives. Some periods you talk, or email a couple of times a week. Other times, you catch up with each other after 9-10 months. The important this is you keep seeking each other out. Right now, Tracy and I are in a good communication groove.
Tracy and I have always been able to talk easily about the joys and pains of life, but especially about each others relationships. Sometimes we give the other advice, but mostly it is a back and for of, “He/she did what?” or (She said what?! Oh hell no! Don’t make me have to come to Columbia!) LOL as I write this.
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote on this blog “My Birthday Part 2, or My Life As a Panda”. Tracy was able to see what I was saying. Or at the very least she is the only one to tell me she understood what I was saying and acknowleded the bitter-sweet nature of being, “the cool foreigner guy”. When I talk to Tracy it’s like being back on the block, but a helluva lot safer. We chat and read each others blog, thoughts and ideas and most importantly, Laugh. And that is … Say it with me people, AWESOME!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Going To Bed With A Smile On My Face
Where in the World is D Today?
Preparing for Sweet Dreams.
If you read the blog post directly after this one, You will see I was in a bit of a bad mood this evening.
But, as we say in my church back home, "God doesn't always come when you call, but He's always right on time."
Today, I got comfort from Timmy, Shaq, Pie, and Cindy. They lifted me from my afternoon funk. But After I got home, I really don't like coming home, the clouds returned.
Wrote on my blog, I love Taiwan but it doesn't love me back. Then I was comforted unknowingly by Joselyn (a Friend in Taichung), Yi-Wen my new friend at church and Ming my friend from school. My mood was better and I was beginning to think I should update my blog before bed. Then the best thing happened....
My Big Sister Marian called. I called her last night because I was sad. She was in the car and stopped at my younger Brother Steve's house so I could talk to him. Yeah!
So today Marian called to check on me and brought reinforcements. I got to talk to my Big Brother Kirk and my Sister-in-Law Theresa!
I LOVE my family! I miss them terribly at times. I appreciate them so much more now that I am in Taiwan and so far away. Families NEED each other. Our family understands that simple but very important principle.
Thanks to everyone who unknowingly through me a life preserver today. But my Big Sister KNEW from 7700 miles away her little brother needed a life preserver today. And she made sure I got it.
The love of and from ones Family is the greatest buoy any of us can hope for on this side of eternity.
And that is pretty darn cool! Sweet Dreams!
Preparing for Sweet Dreams.
If you read the blog post directly after this one, You will see I was in a bit of a bad mood this evening.
But, as we say in my church back home, "God doesn't always come when you call, but He's always right on time."
Today, I got comfort from Timmy, Shaq, Pie, and Cindy. They lifted me from my afternoon funk. But After I got home, I really don't like coming home, the clouds returned.
Wrote on my blog, I love Taiwan but it doesn't love me back. Then I was comforted unknowingly by Joselyn (a Friend in Taichung), Yi-Wen my new friend at church and Ming my friend from school. My mood was better and I was beginning to think I should update my blog before bed. Then the best thing happened....
My Big Sister Marian called. I called her last night because I was sad. She was in the car and stopped at my younger Brother Steve's house so I could talk to him. Yeah!
So today Marian called to check on me and brought reinforcements. I got to talk to my Big Brother Kirk and my Sister-in-Law Theresa!
I LOVE my family! I miss them terribly at times. I appreciate them so much more now that I am in Taiwan and so far away. Families NEED each other. Our family understands that simple but very important principle.
Thanks to everyone who unknowingly through me a life preserver today. But my Big Sister KNEW from 7700 miles away her little brother needed a life preserver today. And she made sure I got it.
The love of and from ones Family is the greatest buoy any of us can hope for on this side of eternity.
And that is pretty darn cool! Sweet Dreams!
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