It
is hard to believe that we have been in Bhutan almost a week. For us this time
round, so much is familiar and it has been a real joy to feel that we have at
least a basic understanding of so much of the culture. We are truly able to
assist in the orientation process with the incoming new teachers and have
delighted in answering questions and guiding discussions. I have felt
enormously relieved that the education system is a known quantity if not one
with which I can say that I am one hundred percent au fait.
A
large part of the joy for me personally however has been the views, the vistas
and the ubiquitous presence of prayer flags, prayer wheels and the ever-present
symbols of Buddhism that pervade all aspects of Bhutanese society. Returning to
them has brought me a sense of inner clam.
I
have been able to be more decisive and efficient in purchasing the huge number
of household goods and appliances we require to set up our new home and the
supplies which may be useful in our schools, as we have travelled this path
before. I feel that I know what we do and do not need. As a result I feel more
organized and prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead, even though our
situation in Samtengang will be completely different from our previous posting
in Rangjung. We are even able to guide others and recommend outlets and
products. I will still need to work on my ability to be flexible and hold
schedules and plans lightly, however but the bottom line is, even knowing this
from the beginning is an advantage.
Long
days listening to lectures and advice and being part of the essential process
of meeting and greeting significant stakeholders in our soon to commence
working lives, do however take their toll, most especially when we consider our
recent lifestyle. Like several others in this group I have come down with a
lurgie: nothing serious but I am afflicted with a sore throat, barking cough
and ever more croaky voice. I guess that this is not to be wondered at, when I
consider that we have traded a completely carefree existence travelling in hot
humid environments, for icy winds and chilly mornings and evenings. At least we
are blessed with warm, sunny afternoons and clear, clean air.
By
far the greatest joy has been seeing several of my former students who just
happen to be in the capital spending time with their families and relatives
during their winter break. All too soon we will all be heading for our separate
schools and there will be few opportunities to meet and chat in person.
I
am delighted that within moments of posting our arrival in Bhutan welcome
messages, requests for contact details and invitations to meet up came pouring
in. Oh the joys of social media. In fact while we were still in Bangkok, we
were actually invited to breakfast on arrival as soon as one former student
heard our departure time. This is Bhutanese hospitality at its best and we
still feel so privileged to be included.
For
now we are not quite half way through orientation and this hotel will hold the
distinction of being the place in which we have spent the longest time since
June 2013! A new beginning has certainly been made and new challenges are sure
to come, but to be perfectly honest I simply cannot wait to be settling into our
new community and starting the real reason for our presence here: the business
of teaching.
Is this hotel near the mall? If you get a chance, go to Simtokha and on up to Chamgang. Enjoy. I look forward to your future posts.
ReplyDeleteyes it is near the City Mal Sue We actually don't look like we will get much free time at all but I would love to go to Simtokha and Changang
ReplyDeleteThis brought back many memories and emotions. The new batch of recruits are so lucky to have you both there, as will your new school and community be! Thanks for keeping us updated! Love from Korea!!!
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