Well I got to keep this short. The five of us are heading to thr island of Annaco for our retreat. We will be the only five people on the entire island for the next two days. Please keep us in your prayers God Bless.
Love
~Greg
Did you know…
That it is not uncommon to spot a grown man wearing platform flip-flops that are often two sizes too small.
That the Marshall Islands has socialized health car, which means it only costs them 50 cents to visit the doctor and a foreigner only $17.50 including medicine.
That there are 23 Pacific Island countries not including Australia or New Zealand.
That Marshallese commonly carry quarters in there ears.
That there are 3 “Ns” in the Marshallese language, two of which I have a hard time distinguishing between.
That the Marshallese language has a rolling “R” like in Spanish, and it is not found in the language of any other Pacific country.
That in order to flush the toilet on the boys side, you must pull up on the plastic hanger, because the flusher is broken.
That the U.S. Army recruits at Assumption High School along with the other high schools, and that at least two Marshallese soldiers have died in the war.
That the other day when I saw that one of my students had a tattoo, I asked if her mom knew she had it, and she replied, “Yes, she’s the one who gave it to me.”
That according to the Filipinos that I work with, there are people in the Philippines who volunteer to be crucified on Good Friday…luckily, not to death. But a nail pounded into your feet and hands…OUCH!
That this Saturday, is the Marshallese holiday of Slo Oflirpa, pronounced (Slaw-of-lirpa), and translated in to English it means both “you are as wise as you look” and “read backwards.”
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Iokwe!
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Its tricky trying to take a picture of your self!
PS. Assumption lost :(
Its tricky trying to take a picture of your self!
PS. Assumption lost :(
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
WOW!
“Wow!” I have officially been made aware that this word escapes my mouth at least 50 times a day. Its usage covers an energetic short, “WOW!” when one of the many Small Island kids are showing me the coloring they just completed. It also fits when I am honestly not paying attention and am offering it as a long more drawn out, less then interested “w—o—w.” In fact the word has not only infiltrated my vocabulary, but has in fact become a part of the vocabulary of many of my community mates. However, their tone often seems to be of a more sarcastic “wow.” After living with these fine individuals for 7 months I have all so noticed each of their own quirks and eccentricities.
Chris- More of the quiet type, thinks before he speaks, enjoys quoting movies, loves watching movies, prefers vegetable spread to butter, clears his throat when brushing his teeth, uses a spoon to peel an orange, examines every utensil, mug and dish before even considering it “clean” enough to be used.
Diane- is an external processor, can talk about nothing for hours, makes the sign of the cross in a way only a ballerina could, enjoys listening to country music, is a big fan of the balanced meal… which includes a carb, a vegetable and a protein.
Emily- Easy to talk to, has a contagious laugh, isn’t afraid of experimenting in the kitchen, is the most likely to be spotted reading a book, walks on her toes when doing the dishes, is not a fan of confrontation, is a running fool, and ran more then 15 miles last Saturday.
Jacqueline- Is a big fan of the word “hardcore”, questions everything…twice, likes things orderly, sees everything in black and white, writes letters home regularly, reads religious books on faith, enjoys brushing her teeth and values good oral hygiene.
I now live it up to you the reader… Please list my habits, quirks, and eccentricities. I will pick the best one and publish it in my next post. Remember to be honest, tasteful and most of all make me laugh J
Did you know…?
that the paid teachers at Assumption make only $4.50 an hour.
that yours truly knows how to open a drinking coconut, or “ni” with his bare hands.
that there is a population of yachters in Majuro referred to as “Yachties”, who can be spotted easily by there tan and leathered skin.
that the National Telecommunication Authority, NTA cut off phone service to the police and the emergency hospital, because of unpaid phone bills. (its been turned back on)
that on Friday the Assumption boy’s basketball team is playing in the championship.
that last year the basketball team won.
that the US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands is not Catholic, but received permission to receive communion.
that my junior students are reading the book The Little Prince, and that some of them admitted to never have read an entire book.
that the only award last year’s valedictorian did not receive was the Marshallese Award, only because she wasn’t Marshallese.
that if one had to sum up the Marshallese lifestyle in two words it would be; jombo and bwebwe-natto, which translate “to wander aimlessly/ go cruising” and “talk-story” respectively.
Biology
Currently in biology we are learning about nutrition. I had my students record everything they ate over one day and bring in the nutrition fact labels. We are now in the process of creating our own “food pyramids” In order to better understand what foods our lacking in their diet. Many of them consumed little or no fruits or vegetables and more than enough sugar and fat.
English
English is going rather well. We are currently reading, The Little Prince. I had never read the book before, but am glad that we happened to have enough copies to use. The book is very short at 113 pages, and is considered more of a children’s book. We are going through the book painstakingly slow in hopes that everyone is reading. I also hope that we also go beyond the surface and get to the true meaning of the story. If anyone has suggestions, please let me know. I am planning on having them make dioramas…Which I think are a lot of fun, hopefully they will as well.
Chris- More of the quiet type, thinks before he speaks, enjoys quoting movies, loves watching movies, prefers vegetable spread to butter, clears his throat when brushing his teeth, uses a spoon to peel an orange, examines every utensil, mug and dish before even considering it “clean” enough to be used.
Diane- is an external processor, can talk about nothing for hours, makes the sign of the cross in a way only a ballerina could, enjoys listening to country music, is a big fan of the balanced meal… which includes a carb, a vegetable and a protein.
Emily- Easy to talk to, has a contagious laugh, isn’t afraid of experimenting in the kitchen, is the most likely to be spotted reading a book, walks on her toes when doing the dishes, is not a fan of confrontation, is a running fool, and ran more then 15 miles last Saturday.
Jacqueline- Is a big fan of the word “hardcore”, questions everything…twice, likes things orderly, sees everything in black and white, writes letters home regularly, reads religious books on faith, enjoys brushing her teeth and values good oral hygiene.
I now live it up to you the reader… Please list my habits, quirks, and eccentricities. I will pick the best one and publish it in my next post. Remember to be honest, tasteful and most of all make me laugh J
Did you know…?
that the paid teachers at Assumption make only $4.50 an hour.
that yours truly knows how to open a drinking coconut, or “ni” with his bare hands.
that there is a population of yachters in Majuro referred to as “Yachties”, who can be spotted easily by there tan and leathered skin.
that the National Telecommunication Authority, NTA cut off phone service to the police and the emergency hospital, because of unpaid phone bills. (its been turned back on)
that on Friday the Assumption boy’s basketball team is playing in the championship.
that last year the basketball team won.
that the US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands is not Catholic, but received permission to receive communion.
that my junior students are reading the book The Little Prince, and that some of them admitted to never have read an entire book.
that the only award last year’s valedictorian did not receive was the Marshallese Award, only because she wasn’t Marshallese.
that if one had to sum up the Marshallese lifestyle in two words it would be; jombo and bwebwe-natto, which translate “to wander aimlessly/ go cruising” and “talk-story” respectively.
Biology
Currently in biology we are learning about nutrition. I had my students record everything they ate over one day and bring in the nutrition fact labels. We are now in the process of creating our own “food pyramids” In order to better understand what foods our lacking in their diet. Many of them consumed little or no fruits or vegetables and more than enough sugar and fat.
English
English is going rather well. We are currently reading, The Little Prince. I had never read the book before, but am glad that we happened to have enough copies to use. The book is very short at 113 pages, and is considered more of a children’s book. We are going through the book painstakingly slow in hopes that everyone is reading. I also hope that we also go beyond the surface and get to the true meaning of the story. If anyone has suggestions, please let me know. I am planning on having them make dioramas…Which I think are a lot of fun, hopefully they will as well.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Short and Sweet
Well I loved reading all the feedback about the last entry, but will not be able to diliver the goods this time.... This past weekend was GREAT. The High School faculty had a "CHill Out" Picnic to celebrate the end of 3rd quarter, and being that the 5 JV's do not get off campus that often, it was a treat and a half to hang out and play at the beach. It makes me laugh to think about how excited we get when we all get to drive somewhere....Living on a 34 mile long island I guess. fourth quarter is going well. Classes are good. I will write soon. I working on another "Did you know?"
PS You all are popular and busy people....I tried calling but I only got to talk to my nephew Sam...We had a real conversation...He is a little old man.....I'm afraid he is going to be using a cane by the time I get back...LOL
LOVE and PEACE
PS You all are popular and busy people....I tried calling but I only got to talk to my nephew Sam...We had a real conversation...He is a little old man.....I'm afraid he is going to be using a cane by the time I get back...LOL
LOVE and PEACE
Thursday, March 09, 2006
March 10, 2006
Fourth quarter starts on Monday; I am currently in the middle of grading exams. Like usual I have saved the worst part for last, the English essays. This quarter the juniors of Assumption learned about creative/imaginative writing. Their big essay for their final was to write a legend, about why the sky is blue, using all that they have learned. I am dreading grading, based solely on the amount of time it will take. I plan to get most of it done on Friday, so that I can have the weekend to myself. On Friday night the c-unity and a friend of ours named Paula are going to the Marshall Island High School’s production of Romeo and Juliet. I am requiring my students to attend, and told them to write a one page review and bring their ticket stub to school on Monday. I’m sure they are not looking forward to it as much as I am. The play is being directed by a professor from Dartmouth, and will be in both English and Marshallese. I have heard good things and am eager to see what these commonly shy students can do.
As for the community everyone is doing well. We have had a few health hick-ups, but nothing to serious. It still amazes me to see how well we operate as a unit. It is as if we are playing a game of house, but were living it. Chris and Diane have been getting word about returning to the states. It is a bit of a touchy subject, and is rarely discussed. In May we will have our Re-orientation for those of us returning for our second year and dis-orientation for those returning home. This year the volunteers from Chuuk and Pohnpei will be joining us here on the majestic island of Majuro. I am really looking forward to both hearing about there experience and sharing mine; I also think it will allow me to begin my second year of service with a greater appreciation for what I am doing here.
It both excites me and scares me to think that fourth quarter is here, and that the school year is almost over. There has already been talk of teachers moving on, which leaves the rest of the faculty worried about next year. I am also ready to tackle my second year. This first year was a big adjustment; I hope that I am able to keep the same classes, because it is possible that I may be asked to teach junior and senior religion class. I am not at all against the idea; however I would like to have the chance to redeem myself by teaching the same classes again next year. This summer the Jacqueline, Emily and myself are going to be teaching on the outer island of Alinglaplap. We will be there for a little more then five weeks, and will be responsible for running a summer school program for children, from grades 1 thru 8. I am really looking forward to the experience, because like most outer islands it is very different then the capitol of Majuro, including not having electricity or the conveniences of a grocery store. In fact we will be taking enough food with us for the time we are there. It will be the closest thing to Survivor that I will ever experience. In all honesty, there are also some hesitations as well; last year Chris was bit by a dog, the dogs don’t particularly care for “rebelle”… or maybe they just taste better, rats and mosquitoes can also be a problem, and not speaking more then seven words of Marshallese will be interesting. I am sure after being thrown into this I will come back to Majuro with a greater appreciation for the many things that I have grown accustom to. My plan while living it up like a native is to spend time reading, practicing Marshallese, learning to play the ukulele, and maybe learn a thing or two about the constellations, not having electricity in the middle of the ocean should make the stars seem like headlights.
Here in the Marshall Islands many things that at first I found surprising have become mundane and routine. So, in an effort to share this with you my observations I have adopted a format that is found in every issue of the Marshall Island Journal I hope this list illustrates my point.
Did you know…?
That “Iokwe”, the standard Marshallese greeting literally translated means, “You are the rainbow.”
That since being in the tropical climate of Majuro, my consumption of hot beverages has increased 3 fold.
That it is common for me to wake up sweating in the morning, and that I along with the other JVs choose to eat hot oatmeal for breakfast.
That I try to wear the same pair of pants for the entire school week.
That I teach the grandson of the First President of the Marshall Islands, and the niece of the current President.
That I have students named; Souvenir, Zoser, Fraternity, and Mylanta.
That if a student is expelled it is common for students and administrators to refer to the student as being “fired.”
That your father’s brothers and is referred to as your father, and your mother’s sisters are your mother. Which makes your cousins, your brothers and sisters.
That it is not unthinkable for parents to have to take out a bank loan to throw a kemmem, or first birthday, for each of their children.
That a common Marshallese snack is dry Ramon noodles mixed with Kool-aid powder.
That 1 package of Ramon has over 200% of your sodium Daily Value.
That Sponge Bob Square Pants is from Bikini bottom, which makes him the first Marshallese cartoon.
That March 1st is Nuclear Survivors’ Day, in honor of all the Marshallese affected by the nuclear testing that took place in the 1940’s and 50’s.
That the bomb, named Bravo, was 1,000 times more powerful then the bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
Fourth quarter starts on Monday; I am currently in the middle of grading exams. Like usual I have saved the worst part for last, the English essays. This quarter the juniors of Assumption learned about creative/imaginative writing. Their big essay for their final was to write a legend, about why the sky is blue, using all that they have learned. I am dreading grading, based solely on the amount of time it will take. I plan to get most of it done on Friday, so that I can have the weekend to myself. On Friday night the c-unity and a friend of ours named Paula are going to the Marshall Island High School’s production of Romeo and Juliet. I am requiring my students to attend, and told them to write a one page review and bring their ticket stub to school on Monday. I’m sure they are not looking forward to it as much as I am. The play is being directed by a professor from Dartmouth, and will be in both English and Marshallese. I have heard good things and am eager to see what these commonly shy students can do.
As for the community everyone is doing well. We have had a few health hick-ups, but nothing to serious. It still amazes me to see how well we operate as a unit. It is as if we are playing a game of house, but were living it. Chris and Diane have been getting word about returning to the states. It is a bit of a touchy subject, and is rarely discussed. In May we will have our Re-orientation for those of us returning for our second year and dis-orientation for those returning home. This year the volunteers from Chuuk and Pohnpei will be joining us here on the majestic island of Majuro. I am really looking forward to both hearing about there experience and sharing mine; I also think it will allow me to begin my second year of service with a greater appreciation for what I am doing here.
It both excites me and scares me to think that fourth quarter is here, and that the school year is almost over. There has already been talk of teachers moving on, which leaves the rest of the faculty worried about next year. I am also ready to tackle my second year. This first year was a big adjustment; I hope that I am able to keep the same classes, because it is possible that I may be asked to teach junior and senior religion class. I am not at all against the idea; however I would like to have the chance to redeem myself by teaching the same classes again next year. This summer the Jacqueline, Emily and myself are going to be teaching on the outer island of Alinglaplap. We will be there for a little more then five weeks, and will be responsible for running a summer school program for children, from grades 1 thru 8. I am really looking forward to the experience, because like most outer islands it is very different then the capitol of Majuro, including not having electricity or the conveniences of a grocery store. In fact we will be taking enough food with us for the time we are there. It will be the closest thing to Survivor that I will ever experience. In all honesty, there are also some hesitations as well; last year Chris was bit by a dog, the dogs don’t particularly care for “rebelle”… or maybe they just taste better, rats and mosquitoes can also be a problem, and not speaking more then seven words of Marshallese will be interesting. I am sure after being thrown into this I will come back to Majuro with a greater appreciation for the many things that I have grown accustom to. My plan while living it up like a native is to spend time reading, practicing Marshallese, learning to play the ukulele, and maybe learn a thing or two about the constellations, not having electricity in the middle of the ocean should make the stars seem like headlights.
Here in the Marshall Islands many things that at first I found surprising have become mundane and routine. So, in an effort to share this with you my observations I have adopted a format that is found in every issue of the Marshall Island Journal I hope this list illustrates my point.
Did you know…?
That “Iokwe”, the standard Marshallese greeting literally translated means, “You are the rainbow.”
That since being in the tropical climate of Majuro, my consumption of hot beverages has increased 3 fold.
That it is common for me to wake up sweating in the morning, and that I along with the other JVs choose to eat hot oatmeal for breakfast.
That I try to wear the same pair of pants for the entire school week.
That I teach the grandson of the First President of the Marshall Islands, and the niece of the current President.
That I have students named; Souvenir, Zoser, Fraternity, and Mylanta.
That if a student is expelled it is common for students and administrators to refer to the student as being “fired.”
That your father’s brothers and is referred to as your father, and your mother’s sisters are your mother. Which makes your cousins, your brothers and sisters.
That it is not unthinkable for parents to have to take out a bank loan to throw a kemmem, or first birthday, for each of their children.
That a common Marshallese snack is dry Ramon noodles mixed with Kool-aid powder.
That 1 package of Ramon has over 200% of your sodium Daily Value.
That Sponge Bob Square Pants is from Bikini bottom, which makes him the first Marshallese cartoon.
That March 1st is Nuclear Survivors’ Day, in honor of all the Marshallese affected by the nuclear testing that took place in the 1940’s and 50’s.
That the bomb, named Bravo, was 1,000 times more powerful then the bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
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