A couple days ago Calvin and I started playing a sort of game where we turn every negative comment into a positive one. It has completely changed my mindset and has brought me to be much more appreciative. The game came about because I was frustrated that I couldn't be as independent as I would like while I am here. I do not have my own cell phone, laptop, car, or full understanding of how things work here. This makes me have to depend on other people (i.e. Calvin) to be able to communicate with the outside world or get anywhere really. This was the main theme of our "friendly" discussion yesterday. So Calvin reminded me, later on, that at least I have access to a cell phone, a laptop, and transportation. There are so many people in the world that don't have access to these types of resources. As a joke he gave me his spare set of car keys so I could open my own car door (I really have issues with my need to be independent lol). From this, our game developed. Comments like "I wish these gloves would warm my hands up quicker" turned into "at least I have gloves." When I was ranting about how my thumb hurt, Calvin responded comically with "at least you have a thumb." While Calvin was huffing and puffing about the sand in his shoes, I remarked "wellllll, at least you have shoes." It has put us it high spirits because we are constantly being made aware of all the things we have to be thankful for. Not to say that there aren't times when we need to express displeasure, suffering or discomfort but we use it more as an exercise for everyday conversation. I highly recommend it :)
Today was the start of the Ocean View Sports Clinic. It was good. Real good. One of the volleyball coaches that usually takes charge couldn't be there today. That left only two coaches including me. The other coach had to escort a couple girls that had gotten into a little fight away. Then there was just me. With a dozen or more 5 and 6 year olds. Lets just say that first rotation was really rough. But then the next group showed up to the volleyball station. They were the middle school kids and I was still the only coach. Then it hit me. Even though I had been letting the other coaches take charge, it was now my time to step up to the plate. I started to instruct the kiddos and begin the drills. It wasn't soon after that the other coach returned and we were back in sync. It was really empowering to realize that I could handle it on my own despite the cultural challenges. I also realized that I need to let things go that I can't control like how many kids show up or the facilities we use or the resources that are available. We roll with the punches and adaptability is everything.
Pictures from today :)
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