just Chuuk

For the time being I will say that I am safe, my students are responsive, I can kind of hula, I have been inspired by the JVI values (spirituality, community, social justice, and simple living), and most importantly I am challenged. There is a quote about the islands by E.M. Forster which says,

"The ends of the earth,

the depths of the sea,

the darkness of time,

you have chosen all three."

While this brings about valid thoughts about where I am and how I feel at times, it only romanticizes a seemingly down to earth experience thus far. I will attempt to communicate this all to you in hopes of avoiding down playing the differences in culture as well as the significance of these differences, which is woven into the culture.

For example, people drive cars on the island I live on, teenagers listen to rap music and "pop" dance, spam is wildly popular, we have school assemblies where students fall asleep, little kids will play fight in their fronts yards, families will gather from all over for funerals, my student's Christmas play was almost perfect, women go to the bathroom together, and teachers will stay up late grading tests.

Some of these commonalities are universal, others are socialization, and a few are outside influence. As I learn more about the differences I will try to convey stories that have helped me to understand myself and my culture better through seeing Chuuk.