Volunteering in Vietnam

Through some early friendships forged by my parents and some incredible friends from France we were able to teach English in an orphanage in rural Vietnam. As a result, we met some great people and new friendships have been formed for future generations.

Although it costs us nothing and we didn’t use many supplies to teach, our hearts have been filled with the joyfulness and yearning to learn that this group of 28 students (aged 5-21 years old) can give. We have both been able too plan and deliver approximately 25 hours each of lessons within the week. 

Our hosts have been incredible, sharing what little they have,  freely and lovingly. Although some have had a few opportunities to learn English before, most are brand new to it. Not being able to rely on a common language to teach from was an added challenge. I relied on my daughter and her recent experiences to guide me.

The opportunity to live within a community  as we have,  has been incredibly educational from an  ethnographical perspective. The teacher becomes the student again. My best moments in life are when this happens!

If ever you can create this type of opportunity foryourself, do it. You will be swept away by appreciation that they give you and then again appreciation of what you have so effortlessly at home.