touchdown

Well, here I am in Shenyang. There was Peter, Robin, 2 Chinese guys and 2 other teachers, named Philip and Andrea, to great me at the airport. That was enough to allow me to ward off the scary feelings of isolation and loneliness. At least momentarily.
No luggage lost, and I talked with a nice local girl who has moved to LA for 5 years. She was home visiting her mom in Shenyang and I gave her my card.
Peter and the students seem really nice. I have not met my roommate Paul yet. I will be sleeping in tomorrow–good, and will be meeting with Robin to get the lowdown on the area and school–good again. I am really tired and look forward to sleep.
When I write home, I will mention only the positive and put the best possible face forward on this. No sense in having the loved ones back home feeling lonely and scared for me too. I am sensing enough of that right now. This was a big change for me; a big chance for me. I am filled with doubt and fear but I am also wondering if that isn’t a sign that I’ve done the right thing for personal and professional growth.
I must stay focused on my goals and work steadfast each day.
I must also have a calendar and scratch away the days remaining. 😉
If I set goals of 1)becoming fluent in Chinese 2)earning a good recommendation 3)meeting someone for dating then I can see the sense to any sacrifice in comfort I will make each day.
I am relieved to know that I will become more familiar with the other teachers and will so become less lonely over time. These people will become good friends and possibly like family to me. It’s just these first few steps that have me filled with doubt, fear, loneliness and longing for the comfort and familiarity of all those I love back home. Home in DC and Detroit and Atlanta and everywhere else.
I will stay focused on my goals, be a good teacher, and count my days so that I can plan my next move into a better paying job within or external to the English First (EF) School.
Maintain focus,
rickymay