How I Wonder...
Since when does an English class begin with singing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star?" It does in Cambodia, and it's followed by "London Bridge," unified recitation, and additional singing accompanied by the harmonica. As a language arts educator, I would consider this the "anticipatory set" in my classroom, the activity to engage the students, and that's exactly what "Twinkle, Twinkle" did on our visit to SFODA, an orphanage on the Tonle Sap River. This special place originated in 1996, and now fosters approximately 50 children.
What was promising about SFODA was the fact that it is making progress toward self-sustainability, for it sells items to bring in much needed funds, such as paintings, metal carvings, gem stones and thread bracelets. Our student volunteers cleared them out of both paintings and bracelets, which not only satisfied the cravings of the students, but truly benefitted the orphanage, allowing for the purchase of food and supplies.
Considerably identifed as a "shack" to the lay person, the crooked, wooden structure across the street, which wouldn't even be considered a street in Vail, Colorado, housed the kitchen, mess hall, laundering area, and art studio. Honestly, I didn't think the wooden planks would support us as we trodded across, but thankfully they did, and we witnessed several floating houses in the river upon arrival. The lesson we learned was exactly this: (somewhat disturbing, yet intriguing)
The Vietnamese inhabit the floating homes, and they are illegal immigrants, yet no one bothers to make a move towards deportation, for the Vietnamese helped the Cambodian people during the Khmer Rouge & Pol Pot regime in the years 1975-1979. What most government officials fail to realize is that the floating houses contain fish cages underneath, and fish are typically sold at a high market price in the local markets. Fish is a luxury food in Cambodia, so the illegal Vietnamese hold the key to secret wealth. Words cannot express the deteriorating state of the floating house itself, but how convenient to see the satellite dish and sparkly new mountain bike parked in front-irony at its best!
Another unparalleled experience to say the least...
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Tattoo Guesthouse: Unforgettable Hospitality
As I sit here in Seoul, I keep thinking about the crew at Tattoo, and how deep of a respect I have for each one of them. Makara (aka Jan) is the head staff member, and for the following responsibilities, he only earns approximately $50 per month: checking guests in and out, cleaning, laundry, master of the cooler, cooking, arranging transportation, translating, etc. Our goodbye last night was heartfelt, as they do mean the world to us! Knowing that the Cambodian culture is a modest one, we respected them, rewarded them, and developed relationships with them; What bothered me the most was the lack of respect shown by other guests, both in attire and foul language. However, to keep this excerpt positive, I will definitely miss the nightly dance parties and smiling faces at Tattoo. Every time I walked up to the entrance and slipped off my flip flops, they greeted me with bear hugs, picking me up off the ground, making me feel welcome and safe. I pray that I can keep my promise to them, that I'll be back next year again.
XOXO, Tattoo Staff!
XOXO, Tattoo Staff!
Friday, June 22, 2012
Cambodian Hope Association
It's taken me until now to blog about this orphanage that warrants a special place in my heart, as a piece of my heart is now broken after our 2 hour visit with them this past week. An obvious contrast from the welcoming atmostphere last April, we pulled into the site, only to be greeted by the heavily locked gate. When the children heard the tuk tuk drive up, they slowly crept up to the gate; however, I didn't recognize the faces of my boys, for they appeared dismal and sad-something just wasn't right.
As Rithy (the director) approached the entrance, I felt a surge of anger build, and the questions began to transpire within me:
Where are all the children? Why don't I see any females? When did they eat last? Why does the environment seem so empty?
Out of the shadows of the orphanage came Thong, one of my Cambodian sons, and our hug was something different-he clung to me, as if extremely fearful to let go. The spark was gone; Only a straight face remained, one of desperation and deprivation. What has happened here?
As our group continued on into the main building to drop supplies and our backpacks, Rithy began telling me about how badly they needed the computers to be fixed, and this literally dragged on for 10 solid minutes. No "how are you" or "thank you for coming" existed in this moment, and needless to say, I was crushed by his greediness. While observing my surroundings, the place was empty...no cabinets with supplies, no more English teaching materials, no tables. Nothing but vacant space. We were then let in to the office to fill the medical supply cupboard, and Rithy asked me to identify the current inventory and the items we were donating, and my initial gut feeling told me that his intentions were evil, and that the supplies wouldn't be used for the children, but as goods to be sold at the market-this instinct was later confirmed when I witnessed Rithy & his wife boxing up the supplies. Every item that I placed in the cupboard resulted in a heartwrenching stab to my soul.
Trying to maintain a positive attitude for the CHA orphans and my student volunteers, we embarked on yet another delousing session, as this was something we could take control of, and we could immediately use the supplies on the children. Approximately 20 orphans remain at CHA, and every head contained lice, so naturally it felt good to accomplish an objective, and the boys loved every minute of the head massages. While delousing we questioned the boys about their last meal, the past year, etc. Pon Leu hinted at the fact that they had eaten breakfast (it was now 4:30pm) and would eat again tomorrow. Once a day! (insert some foul language and frustration here) Being the typical Americans that we are, we pulled out protein bars, dried fruits & nuts, Cheezits, and any possible snack we could scrounge up from our packs. Next, picture emaciated, drooling vultures ravaging some roadkill-that's exactly what the next scene offered.
Finding it difficult to stay much longer, as the gruesome atmosphere was beginning to take its toll on Jack and me, we began the process of departure. Rithy only asked when we would be back and if we could bring more medical supplies on our next visit, and the children struggled to let go, with painstaking terror in their eyes. I highly doubt I will see most of those children again, and my heart aches knowing that they realize the same. The hope is gone, I'm angry and disappointed, and this feeling of helplessness makes me want to vomit...
Words cannot express the moment when I kissed Thong goodbye...I believe it may be the last.
As Rithy (the director) approached the entrance, I felt a surge of anger build, and the questions began to transpire within me:
Where are all the children? Why don't I see any females? When did they eat last? Why does the environment seem so empty?
Out of the shadows of the orphanage came Thong, one of my Cambodian sons, and our hug was something different-he clung to me, as if extremely fearful to let go. The spark was gone; Only a straight face remained, one of desperation and deprivation. What has happened here?
As our group continued on into the main building to drop supplies and our backpacks, Rithy began telling me about how badly they needed the computers to be fixed, and this literally dragged on for 10 solid minutes. No "how are you" or "thank you for coming" existed in this moment, and needless to say, I was crushed by his greediness. While observing my surroundings, the place was empty...no cabinets with supplies, no more English teaching materials, no tables. Nothing but vacant space. We were then let in to the office to fill the medical supply cupboard, and Rithy asked me to identify the current inventory and the items we were donating, and my initial gut feeling told me that his intentions were evil, and that the supplies wouldn't be used for the children, but as goods to be sold at the market-this instinct was later confirmed when I witnessed Rithy & his wife boxing up the supplies. Every item that I placed in the cupboard resulted in a heartwrenching stab to my soul.
Trying to maintain a positive attitude for the CHA orphans and my student volunteers, we embarked on yet another delousing session, as this was something we could take control of, and we could immediately use the supplies on the children. Approximately 20 orphans remain at CHA, and every head contained lice, so naturally it felt good to accomplish an objective, and the boys loved every minute of the head massages. While delousing we questioned the boys about their last meal, the past year, etc. Pon Leu hinted at the fact that they had eaten breakfast (it was now 4:30pm) and would eat again tomorrow. Once a day! (insert some foul language and frustration here) Being the typical Americans that we are, we pulled out protein bars, dried fruits & nuts, Cheezits, and any possible snack we could scrounge up from our packs. Next, picture emaciated, drooling vultures ravaging some roadkill-that's exactly what the next scene offered.
Finding it difficult to stay much longer, as the gruesome atmosphere was beginning to take its toll on Jack and me, we began the process of departure. Rithy only asked when we would be back and if we could bring more medical supplies on our next visit, and the children struggled to let go, with painstaking terror in their eyes. I highly doubt I will see most of those children again, and my heart aches knowing that they realize the same. The hope is gone, I'm angry and disappointed, and this feeling of helplessness makes me want to vomit...
Words cannot express the moment when I kissed Thong goodbye...I believe it may be the last.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
People Improvement Organization (aka PIO) Orphanage
Although our service trip is mostly dedicated to CPO Orphanage this year, we are still visiting other orphanages, to compare and contrast philosophies and structures, to distribute medical supplies and clothing, and to seek out future opportunities.
PIO is conveniently tucked away, nestled behind several trash dumps, but nonetheless, a unique place filled with laughter, talent and love. The house manager, Ms. Yim Somaly, lives in Phnom Penh yet works at the orphanage from sun up until sun down, ensuring that children are fed and punctual for school. The director originates from Canada, hence the Canadian flags draping the perimeter of the main room. Originally stationed upon the trash dump hill, PIO is now linked to a multilevel school across the yard, funded by Singapore, Australia, and the United States, one country contributing to each level of the facility. After interviewing Yim, I discovered that most children in this orphanage are clueless as to where their parents are living, for most of them were dropped off by grandparents that couldn't support them anymore-parents promise the grandparents that they'll be back, and head to Malaysia for work...they never come back. When utility bills consume the grandparents, they are forced to leave their home. Conveniently, the elderly are welcome at local pagodas, but not children-thus the separation and overly-populated orphanages. PIO, supporting ages 3 and up, houses 62 children at the moment, with a few more on the way.
My heartwrenching moment: noticing the small (approximately 8x12x3) Red Cross box mounted on the wall. When asked if this was the "önly" medical supply cabinet, Yim replied, with a solemn expression, "Yes." Knowing that this would be the case in most every orphanage we visited during this service trip, we had a packed medical suitcase ready to unload. The interesting part linked to medical supplies is that we need to educate each director about the uses of each one, as everything is written in English, and although they may speak limited English, medical terminology is not included in their vocabulary.
To conclude our visit, the children blessed us with traditional Khmer dance performances, both male & female versions, and words cannot express the gracefulness and poise exhibited in these moments. On the contrary, the kids asked to see our moves while blasting some Hip Hop & Electronica. Here we were, a bunch of spunky Americans, shakin' it like we know how, dripping with sweat & looking ridiculous...but to see the smiles on their faces and hear the giggles (with an occasional finger-pointing) absolutely gave us a sense of contentment.
Shake What Your Mama Gave Ya!
FB LINK for PIO: www.facebook.com/pio.cambodia
Although our service trip is mostly dedicated to CPO Orphanage this year, we are still visiting other orphanages, to compare and contrast philosophies and structures, to distribute medical supplies and clothing, and to seek out future opportunities.
PIO is conveniently tucked away, nestled behind several trash dumps, but nonetheless, a unique place filled with laughter, talent and love. The house manager, Ms. Yim Somaly, lives in Phnom Penh yet works at the orphanage from sun up until sun down, ensuring that children are fed and punctual for school. The director originates from Canada, hence the Canadian flags draping the perimeter of the main room. Originally stationed upon the trash dump hill, PIO is now linked to a multilevel school across the yard, funded by Singapore, Australia, and the United States, one country contributing to each level of the facility. After interviewing Yim, I discovered that most children in this orphanage are clueless as to where their parents are living, for most of them were dropped off by grandparents that couldn't support them anymore-parents promise the grandparents that they'll be back, and head to Malaysia for work...they never come back. When utility bills consume the grandparents, they are forced to leave their home. Conveniently, the elderly are welcome at local pagodas, but not children-thus the separation and overly-populated orphanages. PIO, supporting ages 3 and up, houses 62 children at the moment, with a few more on the way.
My heartwrenching moment: noticing the small (approximately 8x12x3) Red Cross box mounted on the wall. When asked if this was the "önly" medical supply cabinet, Yim replied, with a solemn expression, "Yes." Knowing that this would be the case in most every orphanage we visited during this service trip, we had a packed medical suitcase ready to unload. The interesting part linked to medical supplies is that we need to educate each director about the uses of each one, as everything is written in English, and although they may speak limited English, medical terminology is not included in their vocabulary.
To conclude our visit, the children blessed us with traditional Khmer dance performances, both male & female versions, and words cannot express the gracefulness and poise exhibited in these moments. On the contrary, the kids asked to see our moves while blasting some Hip Hop & Electronica. Here we were, a bunch of spunky Americans, shakin' it like we know how, dripping with sweat & looking ridiculous...but to see the smiles on their faces and hear the giggles (with an occasional finger-pointing) absolutely gave us a sense of contentment.
Shake What Your Mama Gave Ya!
FB LINK for PIO: www.facebook.com/pio.cambodia
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Breaks My Heart
Slum, as defined on dictionary.com: a thickly populated, run-down, squalid part of a city, inhabited by poor people.
What I witnessed was exactly that, but the dictionary definition is definitely jazzed up a bit. It doesn't mention the wild dogs and emaciated HIV positive inhabitants nor the blue-blackish bubbling substance existing in the depressions of the streets. As we entered the boundaries of the slums behind PIO orphanage, it became apparent that kids will do anything for fun, in a creative sense-which was intriguing yet saddening. Two boys, strapped at the waist with ropes, pretending to be oxen in the rice fields, carried Angkor beer cans behind them, giggling as if the fun would never end. Continuing on, it was not uncommon to see rotting teeth, sunken eyes, naked babies, and mounds of spoiled trash; Words cannot express the stench that was ever-present in the air.
What I did not notice during our visit, but was disclosed to me in quiet conversation, was the fact that the slums are filled with raging alcoholics and wife-beating husbands. We stopped in to meet several of the orphanage children's mothers and younger siblings, all polite and grateful for the supplies we distributed. Needless to say, my sunglasses were a "must" on this journey, as I was sickened at the thought that babies are continuing to be born into this detestable environment-born into poverty with a minimal chance for a successful future. Thank God for orphanages and volunteers!
On the contrary, I detected one glimpse of hope, a man scooping trash from the mini-swamps outside his shack. Although rare, may it be possible for his actions to rub off on his neighbors.
Food for thought...what happens when it rains?
xoxo
What I witnessed was exactly that, but the dictionary definition is definitely jazzed up a bit. It doesn't mention the wild dogs and emaciated HIV positive inhabitants nor the blue-blackish bubbling substance existing in the depressions of the streets. As we entered the boundaries of the slums behind PIO orphanage, it became apparent that kids will do anything for fun, in a creative sense-which was intriguing yet saddening. Two boys, strapped at the waist with ropes, pretending to be oxen in the rice fields, carried Angkor beer cans behind them, giggling as if the fun would never end. Continuing on, it was not uncommon to see rotting teeth, sunken eyes, naked babies, and mounds of spoiled trash; Words cannot express the stench that was ever-present in the air.
On the contrary, I detected one glimpse of hope, a man scooping trash from the mini-swamps outside his shack. Although rare, may it be possible for his actions to rub off on his neighbors.
Food for thought...what happens when it rains?
xoxo
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Dedication
The Roof, the Roof, the Roof is on Fire!
Not exactly, but the staff at Cooperation of Peace Orphanage is! When we showed up to the orphanage, Lisamarie, Jamie and I sat down with our translator, Meng, and the director's wife, Sahm An, and discussed the needs of the orphanage. Two crucial items named were the roof and running water; The roof needed an extension to prevent flooding and the running water-I'm not kidding when I say that the orphanage lacks running water. After discussing costs and concerns, Children's Global Alliance (aka Lisamarie Howell) agreed to sponsor both. Materials were immediately purchased for the roof, and the Village Chief was contacted regarding the water supply. 2 goals set...2 goals met.
It was apparent just how badly the roof was needed, because as we walked in on Friday morning, 3/4 of the structure had already been completed---breathtaking! Dedication, Drive, and Self-Discipline define the staff members at CPO when it comes to ensuring the security and stability of the organization. The men slaved away in the sweltering heat, hanging off 2x4s, toes wrapped around logs--all for the good of the inhabitants, definitely not the pay nor recognition.
Mission #1 accomplished.
Not exactly, but the staff at Cooperation of Peace Orphanage is! When we showed up to the orphanage, Lisamarie, Jamie and I sat down with our translator, Meng, and the director's wife, Sahm An, and discussed the needs of the orphanage. Two crucial items named were the roof and running water; The roof needed an extension to prevent flooding and the running water-I'm not kidding when I say that the orphanage lacks running water. After discussing costs and concerns, Children's Global Alliance (aka Lisamarie Howell) agreed to sponsor both. Materials were immediately purchased for the roof, and the Village Chief was contacted regarding the water supply. 2 goals set...2 goals met.
It was apparent just how badly the roof was needed, because as we walked in on Friday morning, 3/4 of the structure had already been completed---breathtaking! Dedication, Drive, and Self-Discipline define the staff members at CPO when it comes to ensuring the security and stability of the organization. The men slaved away in the sweltering heat, hanging off 2x4s, toes wrapped around logs--all for the good of the inhabitants, definitely not the pay nor recognition.
Mission #1 accomplished.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Live. Laugh. Love. Empower.
As I sit here, pondering the possible individuals I'd like to write about, I bring my focus back to the revised title of my blog, also the title of this post. Live-I am living life, achieving goals, and being the role model I truly want to be for my son. Laugh-Without laughter, life wouldn't be interesting...which means I haven't been "living" my life, as most of my laughter comes from reminiscing about events from my past. I live for laughter. Love-So much love to give, it may seem overwhelming to some; Everyone yearns to be loved by someone, so why not extend it? Loving what you DO is critical and helps establish your purpose in life. Empower-Confidence, Courage, Integrity, Responsibility, Self-Discipline...the list could go on and on. The four verbs are appropriately linked to one another, and I've chosen them to represent me, my daily goals on my CGA service trips, and my hopes for all individuals with whom I come into contact. My heart bursts with joy and pride as I observe Jack, Creek, Gena, AJ, Schariar, Keavy, Haley and Nicole living one of their dreams, laughing and smiling with orphans, and sharing their unconditional love. But undoubtedly the most thrilling of all, I am beginning to notice an essence of empowerment transpiring from within each one of them. They are in a developing country, making their own decisions, learning from their mistakes, celebrating their successes, reflecting on personal strengths and weaknesses-I am so proud of them!
Sopia & Samean (pronounced so-pee-uh & som-ey-on)
Two young males afflicted by blindness, Sopia and Samean are inspiring individuals that have been dealt a tough hands of cards in life. At age 4, Sopia not only lost his sight as a result of a landmine detonation, but lost his good friend and relationship with his family. At 1.5 years, Samean was plagued with a double eye infection, and after administration of antibiotic eyedrops at the doctor, he lost his sight as well. Lisamarie and I sat down with both young men today, gathering their stories with the assistance of Meng, our translator and sophisticated, young lady of 23 years. The boys are living their lives as staff members & musical directors at CPO, and have been for over 7 years. They both have family, but rarely hear from them. While listening to their stories, I tried to fathom what life would be like without the sense of sight-I am grateful. Talented musicians indeed, I asked them what else they loved-the reply: "nothing." My heart cringed at this moment in time, but they must have heard my disheartening sigh, because then they laughed and said, "It's okay, we love music." It's obvious that music is their purpose in life, and they feel empowered by their abilities. Sopia & Samean are valued and respected at CGO, and also by myself and the Children's Global Alliance community.
Please...
Be grateful for your strengths, yet acknowledge your areas for improvement. We are all vulnerable in one aspect or another, so remember to live, laugh, love, and empower another to face life with courage and integrity. We are all capable of great things!
xoxo
jen
Sopia & Samean (pronounced so-pee-uh & som-ey-on)
Two young males afflicted by blindness, Sopia and Samean are inspiring individuals that have been dealt a tough hands of cards in life. At age 4, Sopia not only lost his sight as a result of a landmine detonation, but lost his good friend and relationship with his family. At 1.5 years, Samean was plagued with a double eye infection, and after administration of antibiotic eyedrops at the doctor, he lost his sight as well. Lisamarie and I sat down with both young men today, gathering their stories with the assistance of Meng, our translator and sophisticated, young lady of 23 years. The boys are living their lives as staff members & musical directors at CPO, and have been for over 7 years. They both have family, but rarely hear from them. While listening to their stories, I tried to fathom what life would be like without the sense of sight-I am grateful. Talented musicians indeed, I asked them what else they loved-the reply: "nothing." My heart cringed at this moment in time, but they must have heard my disheartening sigh, because then they laughed and said, "It's okay, we love music." It's obvious that music is their purpose in life, and they feel empowered by their abilities. Sopia & Samean are valued and respected at CGO, and also by myself and the Children's Global Alliance community.
Please...
Be grateful for your strengths, yet acknowledge your areas for improvement. We are all vulnerable in one aspect or another, so remember to live, laugh, love, and empower another to face life with courage and integrity. We are all capable of great things!
xoxo
jen
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
The day is drawing near...
As I ponder the thought of seeing my friends at Cambodian Hope Association in a few days, my body trembles at the thought of who may not be there anymore, but swells with joy knowing I'll be able to wrap my loving arms around familiar faces and smother them with kisses. Last April, I promised them that I would be back, and it's happening in just 5 days.
The support I've received over the past year has been refreshing and encouraging, especially in the past 6 months.Thank you, everyone, for your support, whether it's been through physical or monetary donations, prayers, silent auction participation, fundraiser attendance, bake sale hosts, and even Facebook messages. I appreciate every single one of you. xoxo
The support I've received over the past year has been refreshing and encouraging, especially in the past 6 months.Thank you, everyone, for your support, whether it's been through physical or monetary donations, prayers, silent auction participation, fundraiser attendance, bake sale hosts, and even Facebook messages. I appreciate every single one of you. xoxo
Blog Links for Student Volunteers and Chaperones
CAMBODIA I
Schariar: http://schariar.blogspot.com/
Lisamarie: http://childrensglobalalliance.blogspot.com/
CAMBODIA II
Zoe: http://zozoincambodia.blogspot.com/
NICARAGUA
Douglas: http://mynicatrip.blogspot.com/
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