Earthquakes and Birthday Cakes!

I know its been a few days! But I've been awfully busy! Be happy to know its been with core activities. Just to give you guys an idea of what my usual week looks like, here it is:

Sundays: Children's Class in Arraijan
Mondays: Ruhi Book 7 in Bello Amor
Tuesdays: Jr. Youth class and Ruhi Book 3 in Arraijan
Wednesdays: Two seperate Ruhi Book 2 study circles and one Book 1
Thursdays: Jr. Youth class
Fridays: Children's Class in Bello Amor
Saturdays: Children's Class in Chappalla

Its really great because I try to schedule my activities for the mornings and have breezier afternoons to prep for upcoming classes, work out and chill out. The heat really makes you drowsy so its best to make the most of your day before you start to feel sleepy!
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This last week has been extra eventful however. Sunday, we made our way out to the mall for a fun-fille day of shopping and Birthday celebrating. After some ice cream, fresh fruit, and the most beautiful view of the city! What better way to end your weekend and start your week!

Tuesday night I was up all night...or atleast what felt that way...the dogs in the neighborhood were going crazy! And then around midnight I figured out why as I was shaken awake, to realize that my bed was moving across the room! By the time I figured out what was going on it was over. No one else seemed to have woken up but the last time I felt an earthquake was in the 4th grade so I wasnt sure if I was just going crazy or it was really happening. I went back to bed and tried to get as much sleep as realisitically possible with all the animals acting up. You know what they say right? That animals sense the grounds movement before we do? Ya well explains alot.
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The next morning I woke to find that my host family was off to work and school. So I didnt really get a chance to confirm my sanity with anyone till much later in the day. I went about my activities for the day and afterward caught a bus to the city. Wednesday was Liam's 3rd Birthday! He is such a moosh its crazy! He didnt know I was coming so I surprised him and he literally freaked out! Akh Joon!

Me: Feliz Cumpleanos mi amor!
Liam: Hed-ee-YEH! Gracias!!!
Me: Cuantos anos tienes?
Liam: (Raises two fingers, then says after my birthday, Raises three fingers)

Im going to eat this child! But not before I eat his Pop's delish cooking. You see, his dad is a chef, and his birthday was at his fabulous resturaunt in the city! The combination of Persian and Panamanian Cuisine is out of this world! I could eat it for days!

But aside from receiving DIVINE confirmation that the earthquake did infact take place the night before, my favorite part of the day was watching Liam stick his finger in the cake before they had even lit the candles. One look at this kid, and you sticking your finger in the cake along side him!

After some great company and some good eatin, we headed back to their place to relax and wind down with some Chai, only to find that although the water had come back, the power had gone out! You see while we were at his Resturaunt, this huge thunderstorm hit. We only caught a glimpse of it as we ran through the rain into the resturaunt, but we enjoyed the soothing sounds of rain and thunder of the tropics! Chai by candelight, we visited, listened to old folktales in Farsi that the elders were sharing, and watched as Liam, wide eyed and too excited for words opened his presents! After this stunner modeled his new Jonas Bro's back pack and Hotwheels Monster Truck for me, compliments of who else? We spent the rest of the night jugando! (playing)

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As the power came back on, a few more friends of the family came over, and this included some youth my age! I was so excited to meet them! I had heard alot about them from friends, and it was great to be meeting more people my age. They grew up in the city and attended American schools so their English was perfect, which also made communicating alot easier. We talked about life in the U.S. what its like to be on service, and why THEY prefer Panama to the States. All in all it was a really great day! Busy! But great!

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Thursday I started assisting a second Jr. Youth class. Which was great because it just goes to show, even at the most awkward of ages! These kids are so amazingly intelligent and interested in the Faith that words cannot even begin to express how much they are learning, and so QUICKLY!!!

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Which brings me to today. I had my children's class in Bello Amor. This is my biggest group but today, I think we really maxed out our human resources! Hahaha. 12 KIDS! It was absolutely crazy! So here is the thing about the kids, they're so great, and you can tell they enjoy the class, because as the weeks go on, they just keep showing up earlier and earlier. So today my kids were there before me!!! And I was early! Ayyy Dios Mio!
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Today's class though, it was really special, because this group finally memorized "O Dios Guiame." Can you imagine 12 kids reciting it for you, and its only our 3rd class! With all the crazyness that goes on in this class, you'd think its impossible that they are hearing anything you say, but then they come up and explain to you that their drawing is about Abdul-Baha and this resturaunt, and the server and the glass of water. Everytime one of them actually takes away the message from the stories I read them, I get a little happy feeling deep down inside me that just reaffirms that what Im doing might actually be making the slightest difference! Besides, tell me this group of kids doesnt put a smile on your face!?

On my way home I took the Tocal bus, which mind you was overflowing as usual. But I couldnt help but to be stunned by this image and wanted to share it with you guys as my parting thought:
Young father with baby in arms gets on bus, no room to sit,  lady sitting offers to hold child. Father hands over child. And just like that, shes cradling some strangers kid. And thats safe, and normal, and wonderful! Thats the difference between the U.S. and Panama. And I think its pretty sweet!

I think I'm in love!

If you havent already, please make your way to my Facebook and look at the little moosh who has won my heart! Wait, I just realized I have fallen in love with two different Panamanian mooshes and its only been like 3 weeks! Well, who is to blame when these little babies are giving me besos left and right and jumping into my arms like there is no tomorrow!?! And I aint complainin!
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I would have to say that Fridays and Saturdays are my favorite parts of the week because of the children's classes. I have one in Bello Amor on Fridays

(Bello Amor Class)

and one in Chappalla on Saturdays. I know its not appropriate to be picking favorites but Im totally in love with my kids in Chappalla. They are sooooooo lindooooo! (cute) And enthusiastic and happy and sweet and I just love love love them! Well I love all my kids. And I have so much fun with them even when they are rough housin, breaking chairs or fighting over crayons, and most of all, trying to communicate with me and getting frustrated because I dont understand them.

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Yesterday however, was wonderful! These kids are super shy, but I appreciate their efforts. All they need is a little push of encouragement. And by the end of class, their drawing you pictures of their interpretation of a story of Abdul-Baha during his time in Akka, and when asked to "Explicame" they tell me, this is the city, this is the shop, this is the merchant, and this is Abdul-Baha. Im left speechless, and once again these kids amaze me! We end out class with a few rounds of Raton y Gato. Im asked to be the first Gato, and I have no idea how to play the game, but these kids are troopers. They arent gonna give up on this gringo!

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I should mention, with all the service, I get a few breaks here and there too! I enjoy naps in hammica's, Pipa by the quarter, and unsuccessful attempts to see Mr. Seik perform my Panamanian jam "El Choke" but the adventures are all worth while! Even almost getting run over by crazy drivers tryna get pictures of McDonalds Panama steez!

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But back to service. Today, was amazing. These kids, I dont even have words to describe this group. But they are amazing. Absolutely amazing. They shine like the brilliant little estrellas that they are! And they're so enthusiastic to learn. They never complain and want to practice practice practice! They already have "O God guide me" memorized in Spanish so Im working on teaching them "Is there any remover of difficulties" in Spanish. Their brains just soak it up! I think its because they WANT to learn as well, which really inspires me to give these kids my all! They pick it up so fast, and before Im done reciting a line they beat me to the end to show me they're memorizing it! I high five all of them and spread encouragement. I want these kids to know their true potential! Their smiles are miles wide when they are praised and it makes me want to pick them all up and squeeze the life out of them!
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I almost squeeze the life out of their little chick too. I didnt realize it was chillin in this little plastic container next to my chair until I heard it squeaking. Take a look! As I sometimes refer to Isar, I just wanted to pop its head off it was so cute!

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After getting over my semi-attention deficit moment, we got back to work. I asked the kids to talk to me about qualities and characterstics that they thing are important in a good human being. With a little push, I had them talkin in no time! They were telling me its important to love your family, to help your parents, to me kind and loving to one another...Dime, que mas!?! Unidad, Bondad, Generosidad, Paciencia, Perdon, Amor por Dios!?! Those all sound about right dont you agree!?! The smiles on their faces seem to me that we've got it covered.

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Before we ended our class, we played a few rounds of Pato y Ganso (Duck, Duck, Goose) and Im kinda bad at it hahaha but I think the kids have more fun with it that way. And before snacks, I told my class that I'd like to end with a prayer, and if they could recite "O Dios Guiame" we'd call it a day! In unison, their mooshie little Spanish voices said the prettiest prayer I've ever heard! And with a few simple words of God,  I had the biggest, happiest smile on my face! After snacks and visiting, we said our goodbyes, and to my surprise, my little mooshes ran up to me and gave me besos left and right! As Goli would say, "eeee" they are sooo cute! And two of the girls said, "We love you alot" I almost started crying right there! Its a bittersweet goodbye, I really LOVE these kids. But its all in a days work my friends. Im out!

Tecal

Before I get started I'd just like to apologize if my last two posts were taken the wrong way. I've been going through some personal issues and I dont want people thinking Im not enjoying my period of service. Just been facing some personal challenges and as a writer, I find Im able to express myself here. But by no means am I unhappy. Things are just different, and with time, will get better.
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That being said, I wanna tell you guys all about the last two days, which made my week end with a smile, after a few rough days at the beginning. So yesterday, was a really productive day! Which is awesome. I feel like Im fulfilling my purpose when my days are productive. I havent had to many un-productive days, aside from one or two days here and there which have allowed me to catch my breath, rest up, and prepare for the following week.
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As I was saying, yesterday, was a good day! Actually today was a good day too! Yesterday I tutored Abuelo in Ruhi Book 7. Its funny because now that Im doing the books in Spanish Im absorbing more because I have to think so hard to understand what Im reading. But I've been successful. Im lucky because this gentleman is very patient with me and incredibly encouraging. I think he is one of the people are here I have come to understand the best. It's helpful when the people you work with understand that communication is a challenge for you at the moment, so they work WITH you to help you understand and reach a common ground. But as I was saying, Book 7, its all a review. It focuses on training individuals in becoming tutors of the Ruhi sequence and reminds you again whats most important when it comes to teaching.
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Patience, flexibility, and love for God. Thats what drives most of us to do what we do doesnt it? Especially in the spirit of service. You do it because you love Baha'u'llah.

Thats what I took away from the sections we worked on yesterday. And no matter how many times you've done a Ruhi book, you're always learning and taking away a new message from the course materials. Its really great, because here I am, having done the entire sequence and Im still absorbing new information, and this time its in Spanish!
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Im really happy I've gotten a chance to tutor. Yesterday, in the sections we reviewed, it talked about how everyone contributes in their own way. That tutors are only there to help facilitate participation, but knowing that everyone has different learning styles and comfort zones, someone may talk alot, and other may not talk at all. But that doesnt mean they're learning. Its amuses me to be able to apply what Im learning to my experiences. All of my Ruhi sessions vary from person to person. Some people engage verbally and we have these really amazing discussions in Spanish, and others dont really say much, they need a little extra push. But its all good! Because their learning style may be different and with time, they will build a comfort level that will allow them to verbalize their thoughts better.
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Anyways, this brings me to the title of this post. So I've officially mastered the bus system. And in the last two days, I was introduced to a new type. So its not really a bus. Its kinda like a large van that has seats in it. And its local. It goes from the area that I live in a loop through town and basically stops really close to where I have childrens classes on Fridays. The other day however, was my first time taking this new bus, and I havent quite nailed down where all the spots are located. Im still working on that, but I'd like the think Im learning quickly. As I left Ruhi Book 7, I saw the bus on the other side of the road and basically SPRINTED for my life up the bridge to get to the other side. To flag down the bus, to get on, only to find, it stops on the other side of the street. Reminded me of my days on the ave. (sigh) I definitely dont miss that about UW. For all my amigos who are still being tormented by public transit, my heart goes out to you!

Estoy Cansada

Yesterday was a really long, exhausting day! Physically, mentally and emotionally.
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I think its safe to assume I didnt get much sleep the night before. And recent events consumed my thoughts all day long. Aside from being emotionally drained, my day started at about 8AM. And I dont mean I got up at 8, I mean my first activity started at 8. Not sure why people around here feel the need to get started soooo early when they barely get sleep at night with all the fireworks and barking dogs going off till wee hours of the night. But they do, and its insanely tiring.
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So I took my first taxi by myself today. Thank God the driver didnt ask me anything other than where I needed to go, and from my destination I took a bus to a community members house to start the days activities. After walking a half mile to her home from the bus stop, we got ready to walk UP the mountain to the home of two women who we would be tutoring in Ruhi Book 2. Although the women lived about a few houses apart we tutored them separately. I think it would be ideal to get them both in the same place, their only a few sections out of sync, but if we could get them to the same point in the book I think it would be productive to tutor them together.
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Regardless however, on THIS day, I was already falling asleep at 10AM. My eyes were dry and extremely tired from crying the night before. And I was so distracted all day, I really just wanted to be back home. People tell you there's nothing you can do, and I know its probably true, but you feel even more helpless when you're farther away from the ones you love when they need you most.
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After finishing our Ruhi study sessions we walked all the way DOWN the mountain and back UP to this lady's house. I basically passed out after lunch on her couch as I waited for my ride to arrive to take me to my next activity. They never showed, so 45 minutes later I was woken up to be told that we would just have to catch a taxi to the next house. So not sure if I mentioned this but Im really not ok taking taxi's. The drivers jip you if they know you are a tourist and I totally dont speak well enough to understand what they say unless they're asking me where I need to go. In which case, I assume thats what they are asking and answer regardless and try to give them exact change. But my fears were validated when the next driver tried to charge us 5 bucks for driving us up a hill.
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Dont get me wrong, its not about the money, but who knows what it would cost me or what trouble I'd get into if I was by myself. Luckily this lady rode along with me and started arguing with the driver. But I cant do that!? I can barely figure out how much they ask me to pay when I get out. Most of the places I need to go, have a set price, and I just give them exact change, but for these new spots? Its not so easy. IM NOT READY!!!
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Anyways, at my new location, I was arranged to facilitate a junior youth class, and then tutor a lady in Ruhi Book 3. I should mention, that its really ridiculous how no one communicates properly around here. I understand its a cultural thing, the U.S. is really different, probably the only country where people really structure everything down to the T. But before I left the house I arranged to make sure I had the right books with me so I wouldnt be unprepared like last week. What did I do? I took two books with me that I was "supposed" to have, and they were both not "needed." Cool! And then the people I work with think Im stupid or something.
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Ok so Im a little frustrated and tired writing this now, but it really was an insanely long day. I'd also like to add, Im not so fond of the Junior Youth classes. I've never done one before and its basically like Ruhi, you just work through a work book. But the kids, they're sweet and all but they're kind they're just like pre-teens in the U.S. They laugh at you for no reason, or at least it feels that way because they're saying things in hushed tones under their breath, and if you can even get them to participate, they make a joke of everything. You'd think they'd have a little more respect. Maybe I was just tired, and had run out of patience, but it seemed exceptionally challenging.
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Just when I thought my day was over, I found out that I wouldnt be able to go home till later. At this point, I basically lost it and Im pretty sure the expressions on my face, made it pretty clear I wasnt happy to hear this. I'd say this was my first Diva moment of service. But only because I couldnt keep my eyes open! And she was asked to go to a deepening on a message from the UHJ which I knew wasnt going to be successful. So I went and did my best. Five minutes in, I set the paper aside and started writing in my journal. And ya know what? The group I was with didnt seem to mind. They knew I'd had a long day and at the end of our meeting, which ended early because I was semi falling asleep, I explained to them why I was exceptionally tired today. I think they understood.
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"It's also during your darkest or fearful moments, that you gather your courage and call upon your greatest strength to pull you through those days. That's when you learn to stretch your strength."

Dearly Departed

Im not sure how to begin this post. But being on service tests you in more ways than one. And you realize things that happen back home are really out of your control. You want to be with the ones you love when they need you most, yet you feel helpless because you're off serving some other cause. And its hard to wrap your head around the fact that your loved ones are being tested too.
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About an hour ago I heard some really upsetting news about a family friend. And right now all I want to do is be at home with my brother. And its killing me that I cant. I dont know if Im overcome by emotion because I cant be with him, or because of the loss that this family is experiencing. It really sucks, and all I can do is say prayers and keep myself together, and show him that Im here for him if he wants to talk.
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O Lord!  Make this youth radiant, and confer Thy bounty upon this poor creature.  Bestow upon him knowledge, grant him added strength at the break of every morn and guard him within the shelter of Thy protection so that he may be freed from error, may devote himself to the service of Thy Cause, may guide the wayward, lead the hapless, free the captives and awaken the heedless, that all may be blessed with Thy remembrance and praise.  Thou art the Mighty and the Powerful.

                                                                       -Abdu’l-Bahá

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O my God!  O Thou forgiver of sins, bestower of gifts, dispeller of afflictions!  

Verily, I beseech thee to forgive the sins of such as have abandoned the physical garment and have ascended to the spiritual world. 

O my Lord!  Purify them from trespasses, dispel their sorrows, and change their darkness into light.  Cause them to enter the garden of happiness, cleanse them with the most pure water, and grant them to behold Thy splendors on the loftiest mount.

-Abdu’l-Bahá

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O Thou forgiving Lord!

Although some souls have spent the days of their lives in ignorance, and became estranged and contumacious, yet, with one wave from the ocean of Thy forgiveness, all those encompassed by sin will be set free.  Whomsoever Thou willest Thou makest a confidant, and whosoever is not the object of Thy choice is accounted a transgressor.  Shouldst Thou deal with us with Thy justice, we are all naught but sinners and deserving to be shut out from Thee, but shouldst Thou uphold mercy, every sinner would be made pure and every stranger a friend.  Bestow, then, Thy forgiveness and pardon, and grant Thy mercy unto all.

Thou art the Forgiver, the Lightgiver and the Omnipotent.

                                                                    -Abdu’l-Bahá

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Love You Walle.

Vamos a la PLAYA!!!

Welcome to Colón! Where the water is clear and the sand snow white! Its the Caribbean if you havent figured it out yet, and I just had my first sweet taste of it. If you know me well enough, you know that I am one to lay out for hours to no end, but for the purpose of having beautiful sun kissed skin.

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So sure, Yass and my mom are always hollering and hootin about the sun screen but I like to go all out with the tanning oil. I think Yass now understands why as she is a fan of the tan too. But I will have you all know, I came prepared for my trip to Panama. I have no intention of coming back as a dried up old raisin, and not to worry, I've been wearing abnormal amounts of SPF 30 sunscreen. Those of you who know me know I dont really use anything past SPF 5. Hah! But thank goodness I did!
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Colón (pronounced: Coh-logne) is located about two hours north of Panama city. Its the Caribbean side of the country and the so you really get a feel for what paradise is really like. The thing about the weather in Panama though is that its super tropical. Its kinda odd when its 90 degrees out but then randomly it starts raining when you stop for some snacks. (Fried maiz to be exact) Which was actually really good. Its fresh ground corn, a tiny bit of flower, deep fried. Comes out tasting like corn bread! Good ol' country eatin!

My car buddy

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But like I said thats the thing about Panama, you're hot and you could swear the sun isnt breaking through the cloud over your head but it is. And when the clouds move out of the way, the sun has its way with you. You feel your skin toasting! Despite my attempts to tan and not burn, at the end of the day my nose was red and I had some wicked tan lines. 

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It was such a great break though, from all the hustle and bustle of the burbs and the city. I just chilled out, swam a little in the beautiful water. Which by the way is still cold...but refreshing...so once you submerge yourself in it, you're good! (sigh)
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After a lovely, hearty helping of sandevich-eh-kaalboss (yes my hosts really went Persian style on this one) we got the gang ready to head back to the city. When you drive all the way out to places like Colon, you realize how much of a tropical rain forest Panama really is!

 And its beautiful!

Monkey Tales

As I have already BLASTED across my Facebook! I am officially going to be attending law school in the fall! All my sitting, waiting, wishing, anti-socialization, and legitimate hard work paid off. And I guess that just goes to show, if you work at it, you will be rewarded.
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This doesn't just go for academia, although I'd argue thats probably the biggest aspect of my life I've witnessed it in. I tend to be one giant stressball, and over the last year, that stress has turned into some ugly anxiety. But it managed to transfer itself into other aspects of my life. Including my term of service. Going into the unknown, it tripped me out! But I really just have to do my best, make the most with what I have, and leave the rest in God's hands. And I'd argue thats exactly what happened yesterday in my second children's class.
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If you guys can recall, a few posts back I had introduced you guys to a group of kids who are coming up out of some not so ideal living situations. They're all cousins, and they're the ones that occupy the pink house by that tree...ya know? That one tree? Over there? Ya well turns out that tree has a bunch of little monkeys living in it! Which should probably pain a nice picture of my environment. We're pretty much in a rain forest!

 Well yesterday was my first children's class with them. And Im sorry but Im pretty sure I want to kidnap all of them and keep them all to myself. I know it's messed up to say I've picked favorites. "Since we're all created equal" and all that jazz. But this group has really won my heart.

I mean look at her hip pop! Who wouldnt be proud of that! Im kidding, but really THEY make the most of what they have and they're so happy and enthusiastic to learn that I'm blown away every time.
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Lesson plan was the same as the one I had planned for the other group of kids that I taught the day before. But our numbers were much smaller this time around. Somehow, the class was so much more successful!
They already know "O God Guide Me" in Spanish, which is probably the most precious thing to watch in the world. But quickly absorbed "Is there any remover of difficulties..." They dont read, so the poster board I had brought along was kinda pointless because they simply mimicked my horrible Spanish. But before I knew it, they were running through the prayer, faster than I could read it!
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My favorite part of this group though, was teaching them "We are drops" They were so enthusiastic to learn it no matter how many times I asked them to sing it with me! I wanted them to learn it! And this time I got creative. I had them doing the hand motions and everything. I'll admit the moves weren't that creative, they consisted of what I could remember doing throughout my childhood and some sweet attempts to act out the lyrics. But I swear these kids are like sponges! They had it down by the end of class and we're showing me whats up! And that really put a really big goofy smile on my face!

[insert video of the kids singing the song, damn this internet connection!]
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After some arts and crafts, we played a few games and this time I got to join in! I managed to explain Pato y Ganso (Duck Duck Goose) and a really entertaining session of Simone Dice (Simon Says) we closed with prayers. These kids really are shining stars! And when they ask me if Im coming back tomorrow, I smile one sad smile only to tell them that I can only come once a week...but I'll be back next Sabado por un otro clase!
They light up! And thats a really good thing worth waiting for!
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One incredibly wise women once told me:

"The turning point in the process of growing up is when you discover the core of strength within you that survives all hurt"

I'm going to have to agree with her, this experience is all about growing up.
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After children's class and pre-youth class (their siblings are in the pre-youth class, which I do not teach, but get to watch in amazement as they discuss virtues and principles of the faith) we ventured to the mall in search of a router! I had to do something about my limited access to the internet! $30 dollars later and you have some happy teenagers!
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After wasting away in the mall for about 4 hrs (I was reminded why I hate hanging out in Bellevue so much)
We headed home, freshened up, and were off to a community fund raiser. Its funny because last night, my parents called me to tell me they were going to a fund raiser. And after sitting through this one, its so funny how every community has its quirkyness and how different one world is from another.

My host sister (Desiree) and I

Im sure, back at home, we'd be getting all dressed up, only to walk to a house packed with about 100 other incredibly Persian Bahai's who are offering to pay "alot more" per plate than they would in Panama. But with the 7 of us who attended last night, we had our own fun! $100 per plate back in the States, $3 per plate here in Panama!
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Just goes to show, its all about the Faith!

Maestra! Maestra!

Today was my first day as a childrens class teacher…in SPANISH! Sure we’ve all taught a Daystar class or a neighborhood childrens class here and there, but this really felt like a real class. Not that it was obsessively compulsive about sticking to the program, but the children are so receptive and cooperative it’s amazing. 

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Aside from the fact that the kids showed up an hour late, I would say it was very successful. As the kids slowly trickled in, our worries disappeared. A few minutes before noon, we had ten gorgeous kids ready for class to begin. To begin, we all moved to the scene of our classroom, an open garage. All we had were 10 plastic chairs, one of which I almost broke by attempting to sit in it. A table, a pack of papel blanco, crayons and well, our high spirits! After a quick introduction about myself, my name, the fact that Im from Estados Unidos, we began class.

photo cred: my kids

Empezamos con un oracion (Lets start with a prayer) and so we did just that! I had written out “O God Guide me” in Espanol on a giant, naranja poster board. It read:

“Oh Dios, guiame, portegeme,

ilumina la lampara de mi corazon

y haz de mi una estrella brillante.

Tue res el Fuerte y el Poderoso.”

-Abdu’l-Baha

So sure at first this sounds like a breeze right? Hold up a poster board, read it, and ask them to recite it along with you. Easy enough right? Umm sure if I could stop sweating bullets! So much for the help Abuelo! I thought this was a team effort! All I got was a smile of encouragement! I continue to encourage the kids to the best of my ability to recite it with me. They do, in hushed tones.

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They are all shy in the beginning. But what’s that they say about each class having a shining star?!? Well we had a firecracker! Soooo sheytoon and adorable! We hate to smile when they’re being disruptive, but we cant resist. They lighten the mood! Anywho, after a few recitations of this prayer, we moved on to a cancion. As you can guess, I don’t exactly know any Bahai songs en Espanol, and so I taught them one in ENGLISH! Te hablas Ingles Maestra? Si! Yo hablo Ingles y solomente un poquito de Espanol. “Eeenggeeeellleeshhh?” Si! 

 Our little firecracker taking pictures of himself!

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So I taught them the words to “We are drops” and to the best of my ability explained the significance of the song, aka translated the lyrics into Spanish. In case you guys are curious this is what it would translate into:

“Somos cotas de un solo oceano,

Somos olas de un solo mar.”

“Somos flores de un solo jardin,

Somos ojas de un solo arbol”

Ok so that might not be what the entire song means, but they caught my drift. I explained to them that the cancion es sobre de unidad de las personas en todo el mundo, and suggested that I would give them un hoja de papel y crayons, and told them to: “Pinte la que apprendieron en la cancion” (To draw me what they understood of the song). They were enthusiastic to start drawing, even the boys!

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As they drew I continued to read over the lyrics and theyre meanings en Espanol, and before I knew it I had Picasos appear before my eyes! An unique collection of oceans, trees, flowers, and rain! If you know the song in English, then you know they understood what I had taught them! And that was such an exciting and rewarding feeling! After they finished their masterpieces, some of the kids asked for more paper to continue drawing while their peers finished up. Some even presented me with works of art! “Para ti maestro!” “Ayyy que bonito, me gusta mucho! Gracias!”

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After a quick water break, we were ready for a story. Or atleast I thought we were, I think the boys used the water break to recharge their engines! But I managed to herd them all back into our classroom area, and once we had all settled into our chairs, I read them a story en Espanol sobre la vida de Abdu’l-Baha as a child and his relationship with his father Baha’u’llah, during times of exile and persecution. A little much for the kids if you ask me, especially since we had just finished drawing flowers, trees and gardens and the like. But they were already asking “Baha’u’llah?” “Si!”

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To wrap up our class, we played a few rounds of “Gato y Raton” which was incredibly entertaining to watch since the kids assembled themselves and explained the game to yours truly.

[insert video of the kids playing, if only the internet was faster]

And thank God they did because I was planning to struggle explaining “Duck Duck Goose” to them in Spanish. We closed our class with one last recitation of “O God Guide me” en Espanol, and this time, I heard the little ninos loud and clear!

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Ready for snack time: Orange Tang? I haven’t seen that stuff since the 90’s! Well Tang and a pack of Oreos later (which turned out to be incredibly popular, my kids have good taste just like me) we were ready to say goodbye. We decided to tell the kids we would move the time for class next week to noon and asked who would come back and all TEN hands shot up! They make mama proud!

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White paper: $2

2 Boxes of Crayons: $2

Poster board: $1

Oreos: $3

3 Packs of Tang: $1

Knowing your 1^st children’s class in Panama was successful: Priceless.
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Just got home from Ruhi Book 6, time to post!

Dias Tranquillas

Buena! I've finally had a breather and a chance to collect my thoughts properly. For some reason the past two days have felt hotter than my first few days en Panama. Luckily they've been incredibly laid back, which has given my body and mind some time to recharge!
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Yesterday I enjoyed a lovely nap en una hammica (context clues people) and then tried some "different" food. I use the word different for lack of a better and more descriptive word. Because it wasn't bad I just couldnt wrap my head around the combination. I think its safe to assume we've all grown up on "Pasgetti" si? ya no? Pienso que si. Regardless, its obvious that "Pasgetti" is universally loved as the comfort food for a lifetime. Whether you like your bow tie pasta or your angel hair, there is something out there for everyone. This "Pasgetti" however was one for the books. Call me picky, but it was mixed with tuna. It could be the fact that Im not exactly a tuna lover, unless its smothered with mayonnaise and other condiments that will help me forget Im eating one fishy sea creature. I mean it's fishy,and warm!
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Anyways, a giant slice of Sandia later and I was recovering from this unique experience. Thank goodness I had one authentic Tamale the size of my head for dinner. Or else who knows what would have happened.
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Today however, was my official day off. I decided to head to Panama City to visit some family friends. And Im so happy I did.

Panama City

They have this little moosh baby boy who basically stole my heart! Watch out gentlemen! You've got some major competition. He is half Persian, a quarter Panamanian, and a quarter Chinese. He speaks un poquito Ingles, a whole mouthful of Spanish, Farsi, and for the win...FRENCH! Ayyyy que lindo! He is absolutely the most adorable thing ever. I spend the day layin out by the pool, playing con los HOTWHEELS con esto chiquito, and napping to my favorite slow jams.

Jingle Bells anyone?
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I should mention about an hour after I came in from the pool, the rain hit. And when they say it's the rain forest they mean it! It poured and then stopped, and there was basically no oxygen left to breathe!
After a lovely relaxing day, I enjoyed some helado brought to you by Panama's biggest mall. And when they say es mas grande they really mean it! Felt alot like home...You can see why...

McDonalds, Dairy Queen, KFC, Pizza Hut, Wendys, Burger King: la casa de el Whopper! Popeyes' Louisiana Chicken, Cinnabon, and pretty much anything else you could imagine. Including the worlds largest selection of Helado y Frozen Yogurt!

Just an ordinary girl...

Two days and three home visits later…Im really exhausted today. Today was my first day flying solo. And its really exhausting trying to fend for yourself when no one speaks any English. I know I’ve mentioned this multiple times but I cant emphasize it enough. It makes serving insanely difficult. But it’s a challenge and I can sense Im growing a lot from it. Even if its mentally exhausting.

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Today I got up at 7:30am to shower…I should mention, I didn’t have to be ready till 9am but after yesterday’s lovely surprise (the water was shut off) I didn’t wanna risk it. So I woke up extra early to get under that insanely cold water and when 9 oclock rolled around I was ready to go. My ride was supposed to pick me up and take me to a home a Bahai family in a neighboring community that wanted to have a “deepening.” What do they wanna deepen on? What materials do I take? At 9oclock I got a call from my host sister saying that my ride had no left yet and that I should probably take Ruhi Book 1 in Spanish cause they’re daughter has questions about some sections. Ok sounds good, well how will I know they’re here? Oh they’ll honk. Oh ok. 9:30 came and went, 9:45, at 9:58am, I heard honking outside the house. Finalmente! My ride was here. I locked up the house and hopped in the car. They’re dad had picked me up.

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Understanding that I didn’t speak much Spanish he slowed down his speech, asked where Im from, how old I am, what Im studying, I somehow explained running start to him and the fact that I just applied to law school which explains why Im younger than the usual grad. After a stop for some Pina (Pineapple) y un Melon, we headed to the house. I was greeted with warm hugs y besos, and was offered a seat by the door, home visit style. As I wait for the lady of the house to get ready to start our deepening, I hear the girls singing “Just an Ordinary Girl” by Miley Cyrus, I crack up, because they don’t speak English yet they know every word. I sit waiting and am told that I’ve brought the wrong book. Where is my book 5? Umm book 5? I was told to bring book 1! Oiiii!

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 So her husband decides he will sit this one out and lends me his book. Ofcourse, its in Spanish, but to my surprise reading makes it much easier to understand Spanish than simply listening. It doesn’t help that Panamanians also have a distinct accent and their own version of abbrevs. Three hours later and a good 5 sections completed. We take a break for lunch.

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As we wait for lunch to get ready, I go visit with the kids. I see their 14 year old daughter sitting in the hallway with a sketch pad and ask her what she’s working on. She shows me a piece of paper with pictures of the Houses of Worship. She has completed sketching one, and it is BEAUTIFUL! She is incredibly talented. She mentions she also has “gallery” pieces. She means she has completed a few paintings as well. So I ask her to show me one, and she brings in a canvas decorated with gorgeous colors. 

Im amazed and realize that the painting I had been staring at during Ruhi was one of her own. I pay attention to the fact that she has signed and dated all her paintings. The most recent from the Badi School. For those of you who don’t know, the Badi School is one of Mona Foundations project schools. I ask her if she attends and she says only for one year, now she goes to a school closer. The Badi School is located in Panama City and its too far for her to attend on a regular basis. But she loved the time she spent there.

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After a modest lunch, Im entertained by little “Navid” who wants to show me a card “tricko”. So his first name isn’t Navid, his middle name is, but when I told him I had a friend with the same name they were amazed! And asked me what it meant. Unfortunately, for the life of me, I couldn’t remember but I told them I would ask my good friend and report back to them during our next deepening. 

A few games of “Burro” (Donkey) later, we made a quick home visit to a Bahai neighbor and it was back to the house for me. Im soooo tired right now, I fell asleep in the middle of drafting this post. Whoops! Thanks to the Kermaloo who woke me up!