Sunday, December 4, 2011

parting ways...but not at heart


About two months ago...I donated all of my old books to a school in Indonesia.
I spent a month there as a teacher-trainee when I was still an undergrad.
The people there were so kind and friendly...
The moment I left the school, I vowed to do something in return for their kindness.
Looking outside the minivan's window, as it drove me passed the main gates towards the airport....
i knew deep in my heart that it'll be the last time for me to lay my eyes on it...

Just the night before, I spent playing, laughing and joking around with my students...
How happy they were just to hear my announcement broadcasted throughout the whole school during the day, that I wanted to meet them...
I gave each of them a handmade and handwritten card...to show them every little bit of my feelings and sincerety towards them...
I was and still am proud to be their teacher.

It took me 2 years to finally be able to do something...
The me back then, was really hopeless...I was getting help just to get by...
...it was really frustrating for me to keep that little wish of mine dormant and hidden.

I love books and their library has a little bit of problem getting their hands on English books...
So, I thought I could help them with this.
I grew up with books...they have helped me...they have given me joy...
Remembering the eager faces of students there when it comes to learning...
I want my books to be able to do the same for them...
I hope whatever bit of happiness, knowledge and inspiration that I have gained through reading those books, will also be experienced by their new owners.

I want them to know that I am forever thankful and that my stay there and our friendship was real.

I hope to be able to support and be a part of your strength - here and always.

2 comments:

Ayuni said...

Waa...i want that Alice Walker's book....

moonshin said...

ooops, sorry...heheheh...are u a fan of Walker's? i love that book and the movie wasn't that bad either. Color Purple was actually a text for one of my literature courses that i took while i was still an undergrad. ^^