The beginning...the honeymoon stage...

So the jet lag is starting to fade, the time change is adjusting and the excitement has just begun.  We all go through this journey as either spectators or truly participants.  I choose to participate and dive right in.  Over these first few days, I have meet some truly incredible individuals from all around the world.  They share the similar passion for children, culture and travel.  They embrace change and new cultural adventures and laugh at the best.  I've been here in Shanghai now three real days, and I tell you, this city has a lot to offer.  Imagine living in a city of 22 million people.  Just to give you a little idea of how large this city truly is:

NYC: 9.1 million*

California: 38.millon people*

Florida: 20 million people*

*Estimated on 2009 census.  

I honestly was a little apprehensive about living in such a huge city.  Realizing after taking the subway, going to the mall, and just exploring the city...yes its huge, but its manageable.  Its also expensive.  More than that though has been the people that I have meet so far.  People from South Africa, Pakistan, Canada, Ireland, UK, Nigeria, Philippines, Vietnam, and of course the USA.  All here to teach english, all here to learn, all here to give of themselves.  Its amazing how bonds quickly develop over a common goal/job.  We've shared common laughs over "OH CHINA" our new saying when things just don't make sense.  You have to be able to laugh at cultural differences and not impose our "western mindset" here.  We can either come into this experience saying "That's now how we do it at home OR Oh I see that's a little interesting, but OK."  We have coined the phrase when frustrated or not understanding something "Oh China."  It brings humor and eliminates anxiety and frustration.  This year is sure to go back quickly, yet the lessons will last a lifetime.  I signed up for this adventure to grow, to be stretched and to see the world.  To push myself outside of a comfort zone that is cozy, easy and materialistic.  I am excited to see the days, weeks and months ahead.  I look forward to meeting the kids and families knowing that an impact will be made daily.  Not just an impact on the students and families, but how they will impact me.  How new friendships will constantly push my mindset to a global mind. One of adventure, learning, non-ethnocentrism and more.  Now, off to explore more of this city I am calling home for a month...until Chengdu.  Shanghai...show me what you got!  

The Story of my Life...

I sit here, just hours before my next journey takes off.  For some, they said you can't.  Some they said you shouldn't.  A few said, i wouldn't...but for those who said go for it, THANK YOU!  This next season of life is going to be pivotal in my growth spiritually, emotionally, educationally and relationally.  I have already seen the downsizing of life going on in my mind...and closet!  Going from a house to 2.5 suitcases is a huge challenge.  I loved gathering things and having the comforts of life, but for what purpose?  What really do these material possessions bring us?  I am sure there will be struggles, there will be challenges.  I am excited to face them head on to this new paradigm shift.  What seeds will be sown and what will I reap in this season?  Who will I meet?  Who will I influence and more importantly, who will influence me?

If I have learned anything recently, is the value and season of friendships.  There are those friendships that are forever.  Distance, nor time keep these bonds apart.  There are those friendships that are seasonal.  They are in your life for a season and then move on.  There are the popcorn friendships that come and go. People that pop in and out of our sphere from time to time.  Yet each friendship/relationship molds, contributes, enriches my life to a degree.  In all, I feel I am a wealthy, prosperous and fortuante man.  Realizing that relationship are the treasures of this life will matter more than any portfolio or Burberry collection. (that takes a lot for me to say. I heart Burberry)  Stay tuned for more reflections and an insight look at this journey ahead.  I am sure it will have its laughs, its lows, its rewards and its challenges.  It will have its lessons that will continue to shape how I view life and others.  This is the next step of my journey.  Its the Story of my life....