Armed with only my backpack, one random day off of work, I headed to the outdoor food court to use up some free internet.  Little did I know that my pit-stop at 7-11 would grant me one of my most memorable interactions thus far.

As I was making my selection of juice and chocolate snack, I noticed a group of middle-school aged kids watching me and mumbling to themselves.  I know I look nothing like the locals, and that alone is enough to get people talking or staring.  Since I am now a teacher, I figured it was only fair to make the first move and try to engage these kids in conversation, just so they know I’m approachable, and see if they take the bait.  They seemed nice enough, but shy.  They responded with the usual greetings but then moved away in a mass of giggles.  But as I got in line at the register, something unexpected happened.  One brave girl came up to me, and in her broken English, asked if I would sit with her and her friends.  I was touched and of course responded with a heartfelt “yes!”

The group consisted of five girls and one boy.  They took up the tables in the corner of the 7-11 store and had saved me a seat right in the middle so I could face everyone.  The who invited me over was clearly the best English speaker and acted as the translator for most everyone else.  I was only there for about 20 minutes, but I was asked about many topics.  The usual questions regarding my age, marital status and job were the first to be dealt with.  On the second round they asked me about my impression of the country, which included topics of food, culture and personal interaction, as well as some comments about the ubiquitous traffic.  It was obvious that this group of kids were curious about what a “bule” (or Western foreigner) was doing in their local area, but were delighted to hear how much I enjoyed and appreciated my new home.

As quickly as the conversation had materialized, it seemed to dissolve.  I said my farewells and expressed my gratitude for their generosity and encouraged them to get my attention any time I may be nearby.  I wanted them to know that my door is always open.  My goal for this year is not to live in isolation, but to be a local.  These are precisely the instances that I was hoping for.

Until next time….