Nearly-Year

I spent the last weekend with the kindest Korean family I have met in my stay here. They melted my heart last November when I joined their family adventures in Gwangju and continued the tradition thusly.

I wish I could describe the warmth I felt being invited into their home, playing board games, eating delicious samchuk, cheers-ing makgeolli, sleeping on a giant mat on the floor with everyone..

They also took me to Woong Island near Taean, where we skipped rocks, searched for tiny crabs on the rocks, ate watermelon on the beach had an hour-long mud fight and went swimming in the water to wash off our clothes. It was simple, beautiful, and perfect.

Within the past two months, I've had a spell of rotten luck in Korea. My ribs breaking. The discovery of not having health insurance. Being denied vacation because of sick leave. Losing a generous cash prize for my students due to a initial name error and subsequent arrogance. Rotten luck. Events which have clouded the truth about my feelings for this country, this experience, this life I have lived.

I love it all. I am extremely fortunate to have been granted this life. My decision to come to Korea is still regarded in my heart as a personal best. As for the unfortunate, I have only become stronger and wiser. It's been an amazing nearly-year. The most profound, adventurous, exciting one yet. Why on Earth would I want to change it?

Cheers again.