The wise words of Lao Tsu

*This too will pass * When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be * When you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to * Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Back in Western Australia

So....here I am back in Australia! I've renewed my contract at YCFLS and before I start the new term, I have eight weeks holiday back here in W.A.
Has it changed? No
Have I changed? Yes
I can do the usual ESL teachers blog about living in China and missing Milk, Cheese, good Bread, good Chocolate, Steak, Meat without little bits of bone in it etc etc etc....and Yes my taste buds are really enjoying the rich tastes of being back home...BUT... I really don't find that it is such a big deal for me. Of course I miss my Mum, Dad and Daisy and it's fantastic to see them.
What have I noticed the most since returning to Aus? The absolute vivid bright colours of the world around me here, the fresh air with a hint of eucalyptus scent in it, the magpies singing their songs along with many other birds, the lack of people, cars, apartments etc but also... too many overindulgent people, too many people with zilch tolerance and patience, too much of everything!!!
What do I miss about Yichang already? My friends, the kids, the tasty food, the lifestyle, my apartment, my quiet time and CCTV 5.
I have noticed that in China I don't have access to much in the way of food that I'm familiar with, clothes (that fit me) and everyday luxuries of home...BUT I want for very little in China, I don't sit at home wishing I had all the so called "good things".
Since arriving home I'm finding that I'm feeling a little overloaded in English. I've had no English TV, friends etc in Yichang and suddenly here back home, I know everything that is being said, I hear all the bad news reports that the media love to drown us with, I have to listen to and answer to everything and everyone. It's very tiring!

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