23 April 2010
Written by Leon
Friday morning arrived filled with sunshine and anticipation of a great last day in our school assignments. Maria and Leon went to the Mario Beiero school to meet with two sixth grade classes and one eigth grade class. We had a fun day with the students singing American folk songs and Maria added a special touch as she led the students in games and fun activities. Rocky and Reita dazzled the students at the Professional School while Kathleen and Joe helped to build a bridge between the seniors and some tenth grade students in Beja.
Our afternoon was taken by last minute shopping, preparation for packing and general relaxation. We look forward to an evening concert at the Biblioteca and dinner later at one of Beja’s finest: Pulo de Lobo.
And now, as we prepare to leave, I would like to leave you with these thoughts: WE all arrived in Portugal and Beja with our dreams of helping to wage peace with another culture through mutual communication, interaction and respect. I truly believe our dreams came true during our two weeks in Beja.
Langston Hughes, one of America’s greatest Black poets wrote a beautiful poem about dreams. It goes:
Hold fast to dreams
for if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
that cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
for when dreams go
Life is a barren field
frozen with snow
So, to each member of this wonderful team, and to our truly outstanding leader, I wish each of you a lifetime of dreams.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Love is the Universal Language
21 April 2010
Written by Maria
Message for the Day: Love is the Universal Language
Today began with my usual walk to school with Ann entertaining me along the way. We were at school for 4.5 hours and one highlight of our day occurred when 2 of our students played a little concert on their recorders for us. The 2nd highlight was at the end of our last class when the students hugged and kissed us goodbye. Ann claims she hadn’t kissed that much since her courting days but I suspect she is just being modest. Unfortunately for Ann there would be no ice cream since the little shop in the school was closed!
After class, the majority of us went to Vidiguera where we visited a Vasco da Gama school museum, an olive oil factory and a winery. Our day concluded with an incredible feast at our local hotspot Luis da Rocha which we enjoyed in the company of Barbara and Hugo our gracious hosts.
So, what have I learned on this trip to Beja? Well:
- Kathleen pretends to be sweet and demure but she is really a cougar with an extensive knowledge of many things. She is so smart
- Rocky is a human garbage can with an incredible, intelligent curiosity about the world
- Leon is a lover of foursomes…in golf, with a kind and gentle spirit and who has great compassion and takes extra time with troubled children
- Ann is greedy when it comes to ice cream and chocolate but has been my biggest cheerleader and constantly makes all of us laugh by entertaining us with her crazy antics
- Reita is a friendly librarian who likes to “do the Dewey” but underneath it all is incredibly strong, brave and courageous woman. And,
- Joe is unflappable both as a leader and, he has turned out to be a very thoughtful and funny team leader who works very hard to ensure that we have a wonderful experience here in Beja.
As for me, I’ve discovered that:
- I am braver and stronger than I ever imagined
- Heartbreak and disappointment are best gotten over by giving of yourself to others
- There is still, despite much negativity in this world, many kind, thoughtful and generous people.
Written by Maria
Message for the Day: Love is the Universal Language
Today began with my usual walk to school with Ann entertaining me along the way. We were at school for 4.5 hours and one highlight of our day occurred when 2 of our students played a little concert on their recorders for us. The 2nd highlight was at the end of our last class when the students hugged and kissed us goodbye. Ann claims she hadn’t kissed that much since her courting days but I suspect she is just being modest. Unfortunately for Ann there would be no ice cream since the little shop in the school was closed!
After class, the majority of us went to Vidiguera where we visited a Vasco da Gama school museum, an olive oil factory and a winery. Our day concluded with an incredible feast at our local hotspot Luis da Rocha which we enjoyed in the company of Barbara and Hugo our gracious hosts.
So, what have I learned on this trip to Beja? Well:
- Kathleen pretends to be sweet and demure but she is really a cougar with an extensive knowledge of many things. She is so smart
- Rocky is a human garbage can with an incredible, intelligent curiosity about the world
- Leon is a lover of foursomes…in golf, with a kind and gentle spirit and who has great compassion and takes extra time with troubled children
- Ann is greedy when it comes to ice cream and chocolate but has been my biggest cheerleader and constantly makes all of us laugh by entertaining us with her crazy antics
- Reita is a friendly librarian who likes to “do the Dewey” but underneath it all is incredibly strong, brave and courageous woman. And,
- Joe is unflappable both as a leader and, he has turned out to be a very thoughtful and funny team leader who works very hard to ensure that we have a wonderful experience here in Beja.
As for me, I’ve discovered that:
- I am braver and stronger than I ever imagined
- Heartbreak and disappointment are best gotten over by giving of yourself to others
- There is still, despite much negativity in this world, many kind, thoughtful and generous people.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
A Great Start to a Wonderful Journey!
14 April 2010
Written by Maria
Message for the Day: Life isn’t about the destination, it’s about the journey.
Today started off very rushed as I quickly tried to get ready for school. Ann and I headed out to the middle school and fortunately found our way quite easily, getting home however was a different story. We had a variety of students at different levels and had a great experience. During one of our break, we explored the Beja Castle and tried to imagine what it would’ve been like to live there. We then returned to the school to watch some students practice the dance they will perform at a celebration next month.
The kids were shy at first, looking at Ann and I as we watched them, but it was so fun to see them slowly warm up. After school, Joaquim took us on a walking tour which ended with a torrential downpour but while our clothes were soaked, our spirits were definitely not dampened as we made our way to Salada de Fruitas, an Italian restaurant. We indulged ourselves in banana pizza, pasta and of course red wine.
As I reflect on our time here thus far, I think about the days that led up to this trip. When I first made plans to join Global Volunteers in Portugal, I was excited at the prospect of challenging myself to travel alone and to teach, as I dread any sort of public speaking. But a few days before I left Maryland, I was filled with fear, anxiety and apprehension. Questions such as “What if no one likes me?” “What if I get lonely?” and “What if I am awful at teaching?” were pervasive and my excitement began to fade.
Fast forward to 5 days later and those thoughts and fears no longer exist. It has been a true joy getting to know this motley crew, all of us with different backgrounds and personalities yet bonded by our eagerness to learn about and explore Portugal and share our knowledge of English with our students. We’ve laughed at our attempts to speak the language, we’ve explored and gotten lost in the town, we’ve shared stories about ourselves and our teaching experiences and we’ve enjoyed delicious food and wine every day.
It has been a great start to a wonderful experience.
Written by Maria
Message for the Day: Life isn’t about the destination, it’s about the journey.
Today started off very rushed as I quickly tried to get ready for school. Ann and I headed out to the middle school and fortunately found our way quite easily, getting home however was a different story. We had a variety of students at different levels and had a great experience. During one of our break, we explored the Beja Castle and tried to imagine what it would’ve been like to live there. We then returned to the school to watch some students practice the dance they will perform at a celebration next month.
The kids were shy at first, looking at Ann and I as we watched them, but it was so fun to see them slowly warm up. After school, Joaquim took us on a walking tour which ended with a torrential downpour but while our clothes were soaked, our spirits were definitely not dampened as we made our way to Salada de Fruitas, an Italian restaurant. We indulged ourselves in banana pizza, pasta and of course red wine.
As I reflect on our time here thus far, I think about the days that led up to this trip. When I first made plans to join Global Volunteers in Portugal, I was excited at the prospect of challenging myself to travel alone and to teach, as I dread any sort of public speaking. But a few days before I left Maryland, I was filled with fear, anxiety and apprehension. Questions such as “What if no one likes me?” “What if I get lonely?” and “What if I am awful at teaching?” were pervasive and my excitement began to fade.
Fast forward to 5 days later and those thoughts and fears no longer exist. It has been a true joy getting to know this motley crew, all of us with different backgrounds and personalities yet bonded by our eagerness to learn about and explore Portugal and share our knowledge of English with our students. We’ve laughed at our attempts to speak the language, we’ve explored and gotten lost in the town, we’ve shared stories about ourselves and our teaching experiences and we’ve enjoyed delicious food and wine every day.
It has been a great start to a wonderful experience.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
It Was Destiny
11 April 2010
Written by Joe Testa
Message of the Day: "Do not overlook tiny good actions, thinking they are of no benefit; even tiny drops of water, in the end, will fill a large vessel." - Anonymous
I truly believe that it was destiny that Beja and Global Volunteers discovered one another. After all, legend has Beja recognized as a peace center dating back to the Romans and Global Volunteers is all about promoting peace through mutual understanding – a “perfect match.”
Today was about coming together as a team, learning about our mission here and the beginning of formulating many new friendships.
It began with a scenic, peaceful journey through the countryside of Portugal. Along the way we discovered orchards of cork and olive trees, grape vineyards and beautiful storks nesting on the poles above.
We arrived and quickly settled into our new home for the next two weeks – Residencial Bejense.
After lunch we gathered for orientation. We discussed the dos and don’ts to remain safe and healthy, reviewed the Global Volunteers manual and what to expect in our new culture. The group settled on six team goals to focus on. We concluded by agreeing on 12 characteristics that are essential for us to become a cohesive and effective team.
Dinner at the Tem Avondo; a favorite of previous teams, ended the arduous but productive day. We dined on a feast of traditional foods accompanied by local wines.
So what have I discovered about this eclectic group in one short day? I learned that one volunteer is honored to be on anyone’s list for whatever reason. That another volunteer is oblivious to the traditional greeting and is going right for the lips. That one has differences with a neighbor over what is considered a political statement and the other assumes is “trash.”
That still another who admits to be shy about kissing when greeting someone demonstrated no inhibitions jumping into the arms of a gentleman that she had met on a previous trip. She claims that she was pushed but I surmise that it was voluntary and spontaneous.
My intuition tells me that this group, although small in numbers will accomplish much and make a real difference.
Written by Joe Testa
Message of the Day: "Do not overlook tiny good actions, thinking they are of no benefit; even tiny drops of water, in the end, will fill a large vessel." - Anonymous
I truly believe that it was destiny that Beja and Global Volunteers discovered one another. After all, legend has Beja recognized as a peace center dating back to the Romans and Global Volunteers is all about promoting peace through mutual understanding – a “perfect match.”
Today was about coming together as a team, learning about our mission here and the beginning of formulating many new friendships.
It began with a scenic, peaceful journey through the countryside of Portugal. Along the way we discovered orchards of cork and olive trees, grape vineyards and beautiful storks nesting on the poles above.
We arrived and quickly settled into our new home for the next two weeks – Residencial Bejense.
After lunch we gathered for orientation. We discussed the dos and don’ts to remain safe and healthy, reviewed the Global Volunteers manual and what to expect in our new culture. The group settled on six team goals to focus on. We concluded by agreeing on 12 characteristics that are essential for us to become a cohesive and effective team.
Dinner at the Tem Avondo; a favorite of previous teams, ended the arduous but productive day. We dined on a feast of traditional foods accompanied by local wines.
So what have I discovered about this eclectic group in one short day? I learned that one volunteer is honored to be on anyone’s list for whatever reason. That another volunteer is oblivious to the traditional greeting and is going right for the lips. That one has differences with a neighbor over what is considered a political statement and the other assumes is “trash.”
That still another who admits to be shy about kissing when greeting someone demonstrated no inhibitions jumping into the arms of a gentleman that she had met on a previous trip. She claims that she was pushed but I surmise that it was voluntary and spontaneous.
My intuition tells me that this group, although small in numbers will accomplish much and make a real difference.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Ode to Beja
To the castle, its tower a beacon of help as we loose our way along narrow, winding streets
To the café’ next door with its sweet treats, my lattes each morning, and friendly conversation in the afternoon
To the mandolin concert in Pax Julia and citizen band on the street outside
To the Heritage Center with its local crafts and our euros
To Paula who coordinates our presence in the schools
To Ana Paula and her jewelry—bracelets, necklaces, pins
To Joe our fearless leader guiding us to yet another new restaurant for dinner
To Helder and his photocopies of dictionary pages
To olives, bread, and cheese served at meals
To the metals platters full of meat and fries
To the pitchers of red and white wines that cushion our days
To the food—and lots of it
To all our new students friends
To the teachers who remain behind in the classrooms
To us—retired teachers who still have the spirit and spunk to engage students in learning
To Beja—our home away from home
- Kay Hendrich, volunteer on Beja team #6
To the café’ next door with its sweet treats, my lattes each morning, and friendly conversation in the afternoon
To the mandolin concert in Pax Julia and citizen band on the street outside
To the Heritage Center with its local crafts and our euros
To Paula who coordinates our presence in the schools
To Ana Paula and her jewelry—bracelets, necklaces, pins
To Joe our fearless leader guiding us to yet another new restaurant for dinner
To Helder and his photocopies of dictionary pages
To olives, bread, and cheese served at meals
To the metals platters full of meat and fries
To the pitchers of red and white wines that cushion our days
To the food—and lots of it
To all our new students friends
To the teachers who remain behind in the classrooms
To us—retired teachers who still have the spirit and spunk to engage students in learning
To Beja—our home away from home
- Kay Hendrich, volunteer on Beja team #6
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Goodbye!
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This morning we said our first “goodbye’. I don’t look forward to our final “goodbye” to our last class on Friday afternoon. Just last week we greeted our first class with “hello.” How quickly I became attached to our students.We are fortunate, I feel that Robin and I have worked with the same teacher and classes throughout our stay in Beja. The students recognize us and greet us in the hallways with smiles, giggles, and proudly voiced “good morning” or “good afternoon."
I don’t remember their names but I do remember who plays the piano, who likes to read Harry Potter and who is the mother of a 2 year old son.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
A Typical Day in Beja
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The work of Tuesday actually began in earnest at our 6 o’clock meeting on Monday (10-5-09). It’s hard to believe that we have been here a whole week. We took time to look back at the goals we had set when we first arrived (cultural awareness, personal growth, providing educational services, improve the image of Americans, and humor). As a group we are making great progress on each of these goals. In the area of “humor” we scored a 15 out of a possible 10. We laugh a lot.
As in most of our 6 o’clock meeting we discussed the Portuguese educational system. Day-by-day we are getting a better idea of the “larger picture”. We understand what they are trying to accomplish, but we don’t always agree with the methods they are using.
Tonight we have a group meeting at 6 and a language lesson at 7. I’m really making progress on the language front—room number, thank you, beer and good morning.
As in most of our 6 o’clock meeting we discussed the Portuguese educational system. Day-by-day we are getting a better idea of the “larger picture”. We understand what they are trying to accomplish, but we don’t always agree with the methods they are using.
Tonight we have a group meeting at 6 and a language lesson at 7. I’m really making progress on the language front—room number, thank you, beer and good morning.
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