This past week was my first week of teaching at my academy. Overall, it was definitely a learning experience for me. I didn’t realize that it would be as hard as it is. I teach level 1 elementary school students and a specialty magazine course for upper elementary and middle school students.

It’s harder to teach the elementary school students because they don’t know as much English, but it is exciting for me when I see them enjoying a game that we are playing because that means I am succeeding at my job. I had to rewrite my lesson plans three times this past week, but hopefully with time it will get easier.

The other class I teach is easier in a certain respect because their English level is higher, so we don’t need to translate as much. But the difference is that they are not as talkative, so it is hard to promote engagement. I think that with time as we become more familiar with each other, that will change.

Now as far as life outside of work, I have also been learning new things. One of the main things is how to cook for myself. The first few meals I made were not bad, but as I make more meals, they continue to taste better. I am proud of myself for that. Grocery shopping is also not as scary as it was. I am learning some new phrases in Korean, one of which was to return an item.

While it would be nice just to share my positive experiences, I can’t deny the fact of life being a balance. At the beginning of the week, I dropped my phone. While the screen did not break, it is completely black. So after a few migraines and many phone calls later, I have decided that it would be a much better option for me to get it fixed at home at an Apple store when I go back in October for my sister’s wedding.

Even though this has been very frustrating, I have learned to roll with the punches. I am certainly not the first person in history to live without a phone. Everything will be okay in the long run, and I will definitely appreciate having a phone after this ordeal.

I have also been missing Dad a lot this week. As I experience new things, and run into problems, I find myself wanting to call him and hear his voice. He was always good at giving advice when I needed it. It’s the little things I find myself missing now. As I remember a specific habit he had, a pang goes through my heart as I realize I will never be able to see it again. Maybe the pain will ease with time, but I am unsure if I want it to. I don’t want to forget anything about him, and I know time will blur the memories I have.

Life is hard sometimes, but we still strive each day to live it well despite our obstacles. I remain positive in the fact that I am living mine well. I took this job to experience a new life, and that is what I am doing. Sometimes I might spend the day in my apartment, but that is okay. Life is a balance, remember? We all need to recharge for those obstacles that are unexpected.

That’s all from me this week. I will see you next time. Stay safe, and stay happy.