짐잉글리쉬

“The most important things are the hardest to say. They are the things you get ashamed of, because words diminish them -- words shrink things that seemed limitless when they were in your head to no more than living size when they're brought out. But it's more than that, isn't it? The most important things lie too close to wherever your secret heart is buried, like landmarks to a treasure your enemies would love to steal away. And you may make revelations that cost you dearly only to have people look at you in a funny way, not understanding what you've said at all, or why you thought it was so important that you almost cried while you were saying it. That's the worst, I think. When the secret stays locked within not for want of a teller but for want of an understanding ear.”

― Stephen King

How does one describe the process by which a dream comes true? I’m not quite sure right now. I am still at a loss for words.
One thing is clear to me though. My longtime dream of going to South Korea has been realized. I sit here reflecting on that last statement and I still find it unbelievable. Over a month has passed and I still need to look at the pictures... to convince myself that I was really there.

The Arrival
We arrived quite late on the eve of May 14. Our flight was delayed by an hour due to air traffic, and as soon as we stepped out of the airport, our gracious hosts, Mr. Jim and Ms. Jina, were there waiting for us with big smiles on their faces. We headed for Yongin and got our first glimpse of South Korea as we cruised smoothly in the night. Traffic was light and the scenery, beautiful. We passed several bridges and saw many tall buildings. Just before heading to our accommodations, we stopped by a chicken store for some “half and half” chicken and some drinks. After dinner and some light conversation over beer and juice, we went to bed and tried to get some sleep. The next day was going to be a busy day!
Going Places
Day 1 was scheduled for meetings with students. After the first meeting in Yongin, we drove to Seoul and moved from Gangnam, to Insadong and finally, Yeouido to meet different students. The experience was physically, emotionally and mentally exhilarating. It felt surreal to have coffee, entire meals and tea with my students. For years, I’d only had the chance to talk to my students on Skype but on this special day, I got to meet them in person.