Chung Ang and Day at the River

Driver's License Test

I passed my knowledge and skills tests to receive a driver's license today. The test was administered by the Jecheon City Police HQ. The written test consisted of 40 true/false questions. The officer in-charge told me to leave blank any questions I did not know. Through my translator I asked if he was going to tell me the answers, otherwise it was in my best interest to guess.

I went with my gut and left 10 blank. Either I didn't know the answer or the English was poorly written and I couldn't understand the question. At the end of the test there were 4 people left in the room. Myself, and 3 older men. About 30 others finished and left. The Officer in-charge proceeded to give me the answers to my test, and then helped the seniors with theirs. Then it was on to the driving test.

It must have been 90 degrees outside. I was the last person of the 30 to take the driving test. First, make two 90 degree turns in a lane that is about 2-3 feet wide. Next proceed to an S shape. Then weave through cones. Finally proceed down a narrow path about 9 inches wide. Now I wait a few days for my license.

Kids Clocks and Socks

One of the best parts of this job is working with kids. They laugh easily. They have more personality than I would have thought at these ages. Lana drew this picture and gave it to me on our last day before Summer break. One of the Mom's who I teach together with her daughter, Lucy and "Lucy's Mom," made me a clock. I like the clock so much that I keep it in my class where I spend more time. I think she bought the clock, painted it, and made the face out of needle point. It's a bit feminine, something my Mom would have hanging in our house. It says "Love... Absence makes the heart grow fonder." Yet, it is one of my favorite gifts I've ever received. It's practical too, that it's easy to read. Time is a good theme for me. It has a pendulum that swings both silently and peacefully.

Then there is a picture of the view from the front of my building. It's not exactly scenic is it? I was sitting out there looking out at the kids playing and people walking. It is a surprisingly cool night. Kids are riding their old junker bikes towing others in creative ways. I reflect back on the expensive bmx bikes, and mountain bikes I've received through the years as holiday/birthday presents. Never took good care of them. Now I have a little 125 cc, and 50cc junker that I take good care of. The former I wash, keep locked and covered.

Recently I found myself asking if I'm doing better here than in Miami. There are trade offs. I have a little money in the bank-- hard earned. I have a job that is sometimes challenging because of the same reason that makes it great. Kids... They can be rascals, to borrow a word from another generation. Life is pretty good here, I'd think that if you can get by the aesthetic deprivations most anyone can enjoy working/living here. This is probably narrow minded from my perspective, but my experience has been very positive.

For my records... I've received gifts a few times now. 3 times it was socks. Very practical and appreciated. Remember we always wear sandals here... I think parents and kids were getting tired of my boring white socks, and dress socks worn down since I bought them for Novartis. Conservative Koreans like to rock out with their socks out.

Closing Ceremony

Closing ceremony for the parents classes. Notice how everyone bows to the headmaster. Notice too that the headmaster will bow low to older people. Look at their hands when they take their certificates, always give and receive things with two hands. Finally, notice how people "offer" their hand/arm to shake.

Monsoon

Monsoon season is similar to any summer in Miami. Though in Miami it rains mid-day then usually clears up. Here it can rain all day long. The dry river beds are quickly filling up. Driving to school on the Scooter is not much fun on these rainy days. Besides concerns of traffic accidents, I'm soaked head to toe. I resorted to bringing a change of clothes that I would have something dry to wear when I arrive.

I completed my 3 hour road safety course on Saturday. My co-teacher came with me and translated. There were approximately 30 people in the class, most in their mid twenties. I think the legal age to drive is 18-20 here. Next step is to take the written test. It is unclear if I will be taking a driving test.

Sandwich Day & Parents Class