The Land of Middle

Before coming to Korea I got to request an age group of preference...I chose middle school and got middle school.

Week 2 of school (and now teaching) I realize culture holds no bounds on the mind, stature, or action of a middle school student. This is a cross-cultural phenomenon.

You have your typical kids who have already grown into their adult bodies in the 6th grade and those in the 8th grade who have yet to hit a growth spurt. (I sympathize completely with this group.) You have the "cool" kids that are so snotty to those not in their circle you could literally ring their necks. You have the quiet, shy kids who won't speak up and don't want to participate in any group oriented activity. (I was this kid, believe it or not!) You have the crack ups who constantly want and need attention and will do whatever it takes to get it. And you have the suck ups who know every answer and offer to carry all your items to and from class. I've seen them at all Munchung Middle School...just in 7 days...and I love them already!

Of course, I've already pinpointed a few of my favorites who ironically are the ones I most relate to. Maybe it's because I remember back to my middle school days. A few incredibly awkward and horrific moments stand out to me from my past...most of them seem to be in P.E. class.

*Square dancing unit day 1: Girls stand on the wall, boys pick a partner! "Ugh! Really, I have to dance with him?" Day 2: (Even more mortifying!) Boys stand on the wall, girls pick a partner! "Are you kidding?"
*Soccer unit: Teacher says, "everyone must play goalie for 30 minutes." This is part of the reason I still have a phobia of balls. I got hit in the face more times than I can count in middle school.
*8th grade formal: Yes, I'll go stag because I'm too cool for a date! (There was a repeat incidence in the 10th grade too!)

It wasn't until I found my worth and confidence in who I was created to be that I drew out of the painfully shy and self-conscious kid I was. I think that's why I'm here...or at least for right now. To love on those kids like me. While I love the tall boy who is obviously the class clown singing, "You are so beautiful...to me!" in the halls, he won't be my favorite. My favorites will be those that sat by themselves, those that asked to sit out of the game when no one would grab their hand, those that came and introduced themselves and then quietly did everything they were told with a timid smile on their face. These sweet kids are why I love middle school! What an important and precious time in a child's life. I am glad I get to be a part!!!

Love from Korea...:o)