Advice for the next group of travelers from Naomi Timm

1) Choose to have a positive attitude.
-- It's hard to know what to exactly expect when traveling abroad so it's best to be flexible and open-minded. Have the mentality, "I'm not in Thailand long enough or often enough to be negative."
2) Journal!!!
-- Not only should you journal about you daily events and on-goings, but be sure to write down your emotions, thoughts, insights, questions, and even describe scenery and flavors. It's annoying at times, but I PROMISE, upon your return, days, months, even years later you will be happy you did! It's the best souvenir for yourself!
3) Be adventurous!
-- Like I said before, you're not in Thailand often enough so try different foods, engage in new activities, have insightful conversations with locals and your classmates, and ask tough questions. Step out of your comfort zone and question your assumptions of life, you will grow not only as a person, but also in your faith and beliefs.
4) Pack Light!!
-- Bring 1/2 as much stuff and twice as much money!!

Final Reflection - Do what Makes Sense! by Kiara Malone

Looking back on this trip to Thailand I am amazed that this opportunity was presented to me. Thailand was so much of a culture shock; I thought that maybe since I had been abroad before that I wouldn’t feel so out of place traveling but I really did. The language barrier was always present so I felt that connecting with Thai people was harder than I anticipated. One of the privileges that Americans afford themselves is the assumption that everyone should speak English and I am not to be excludes from this presumption. Going into restaurants where the entire menu is in English but none of the staff spoke English was frustrating and mind-boggling at the same time. But even as frustrating at the hand motioning, one word explanation, charades type communication was this did not taint the experience one bit.

I learned so much on this trip that I will always think about. The biggest lesson I wish to adopt is to use common sense and not to over complicate things. This was the country of 1 + 1 definitely equals 2. If there is a problem in the neighborhood, providence, or country that they were made aware of taking the steps to solve and eliminate the problem was the next action taken. In the U.S we over complicate things, we have a department for every single thing that will always give you a “7-10 business days or 6-8 weeks” answer for when things can be done. In Thailand the solution is at the next window. Going to Bumrungrad hospital we were able to see that for each floor/department everything you need is right there information, billing, pharmacy, testing lab, and doctor. You don’t need to waste time or energy going to a thousand different places for one answer. These kind of easy solutions are what Americans need. In Thai culture they seem to be focused of taking care of themselves and their people. There is always money to be made but not at the risk of the health and safety of the citizen. America doesn’t seems to follow a philosophy like this, if you don’t have medical insurance your not getting care or you get bills that make you choose between food and medication. What kind of people are we really? Who are we choosing to run our country? We are spending billions of dollars in efforts to save everyone in the world but ourselves and that makes absolutely no sense. My final take away from my Thailand experience is to Do what Makes Sense and take care of people.

Kiara M.'s Advice for Future students!!!

1: NECK PILLOW and BLANKET!!! This was the most important when on the planes and the extensive amount of time you spend on the bus. I forgot my blanket and I was so sad because there were many times that the blanket on my bed was thin and not as warm as I wanted. Also the beds are pretty firm so if your used to your cushy bed make sure you have you blanket to help you in that department.

2: WALKING SHOES THAT CAN GET DIRTY OR WET you will walk a lot and sometimes on dirt roads and there’s lots of dust so YES bring cute shoes for those times when you go out and about on your own but there are times that when you will get dirty so have not fear. Also embarrassing side note in some places there will only be a squatter toilet and until you master it you will probably make some mistakes. Case and point I threw away a pair of shoes after using one of them SO make sure you are not too attached to clothing or shoes.
3: SNACKS my apple juice boxes and fruit snacks saved the day many times just because sometimes the hotel isn’t close to a store. So bringing a few snacks for days like that is great or if you ever miss a taste of home.

4: CAMERA I’m sure you all will bring a camera to capture this experience but make sure you bring all your stuff battery charger, converter or adapter, case, SD card, whatever! Forgetting any of the above will be tragic.

5: COMPUTER no matter what anyone says bring your computer. Nothing will happen to it, and you will NEED it for blogging and Internet when you have it. Cathy and Jill have a lights out policy at 9pm so you will more than likely not use their computers. GOOGLE VOICE is amazing for calls home .01 a minute.

6: FINALLY TOLIET PAPER AND HAND SANATIZER there is almost no toilet paper available to you and you may even have to pay to use it. So bring it, or buy some there immediately. Also they don’t seem to believe in paper towels so if you aren’t a fan of hand drying sanitizer is your best option.

Finally just have an open mind and try things that you normally wouldn’t, don’t be afraid to be adventurous. GET ON THE FREAKING ELEPHANT! Its always worth it, this is not an experience that you will be able to go back to at any time so don’t leave with regrets!

Reflections and Revelations

I am one of two students from this experience that returned to Minnesota and didn't go back to the "college life". The past 8 days have been somewhat relaxing for me, I've taken full advantage of daily naps and home cooked meals from my new roommates (my parents). Looking back on our trip to Thailand, it seems as though it was all a dream...until I look through all the wonderful pictures that captured all of our memories. There are many things and ideas that I carry with me today that I learned from our time in Thailand. My attitude toward every day life has changed, I'm not so concerned with having my life planned out by the hour or what I'm doing next weekend. I find myself taking each day as it comes and not sweating the small, unimportant details. When eating at a restaurant, I find myself reminiscing about the concept of "Thai time" and how much longer it took to complete a meal.

Overall, I am extremely thankful for the opportunities I have been given in my life and what the people of Thailand have taught me, both directly and indirectly. I have been asked by numerous people, "How was your trip?" I am really at a loss for words. All I can muster is, "It was amazing, to say the least!" But seriously, I really don't know how to verbalize what I did, the people I met, and the things we did together. I wish that everyone would travel the world to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the life they have been given.

My life now consists of applying for jobs and bracing myself for the next chapter of my life. Before Thailand, I was dreading graduation and the unknown of what lies ahead. Now, I am taking it as a challenge and as another learning opportunity just as those we had experienced abroad. Building character one day at a time!

Reflections on Thailand by Kari Lawrence

I can't believe that I have already been back in the states for a whole week! Its back to real life! I've been trying to get adjusted to being in school again, searching for a part-time job, and trying to get used to this freezing weather!

I had a blast in Thailand and learned so much I'm having trouble explaining to everyone everything I experienced. I feel like before I left for Thailand I heard stories about peoples' experiences and thought I had a pretty good idea of what Thailand was all about. I couldn't have been more wrong. There is so much more to Thailand than those who have been there are able to retell. And I am starting to feel that way when people ask me. I am just not able to describe in detail all of the amazing things we experienced,unless of course they are willing to sit down for at least 5 hours, but even then that wouldn't be enough. I am so glad that I went on this trip and had to opportunity to experience a culture completely different than our own. There is so much more out there besides what we experience in the U.S. and I believe it is important to take any opportunity you can to travel and see what is out there!

I am so grateful that I had this opportunity and I feel like Thailand has really opened up my eyes to a lot of things. After being back I realize that I have a new appreciation for everything that I have here at home. I don't think that I would have been able to realize this appreciation if I had not traveled to Thailand. It's amazing what only 3 weeks in another country can do to your outlook on life!

Advice from Kari L. for next group of students going to Thailand

My #1 piece of advice, get a neck pillow!!! (And not the blow up kind either, those are uncomfortable!) It really is a long flight and it will be painful if you aren't able to get some sleep. I didn't have a decent neck pillow on the way there, and I bought one in the airport on the way back and the flight was much more bearable.

Also, another important thing to remember when you go to keep an open mind. You need to realize that things are done a lot differently in Thailand. For instance, when you are at a restaurant the waiter or waitress probably wont come to your table until you signal them to come over. They also bring the food out at different times rather then bringing all the food out together. Its times like these that you just need to stay patient and realize that things are done differently in other places, and to get the best experience you need to keep an open mind and just accept that this is the way they do things.

Overall, just try to learn as much as you can about the culture of Thailand before you go, the more you know and understand the least surprises you will encounter and the easier time you will have adjusting. Just remember, keep calm and have fun! :)

Advice for Future Students

The trip to Thailand was amazing and if you're considering going, I think you definitely should! It was an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life and I believe I grew as a person from this trip. Listed below are a few tips that I suggest for this trip--

(1) Bring some kind of neck pillow / pillow for the plane-- anything that may be comfortable for sleep. I wasn't able to sleep at all on the flights home b/c I couldn't get comfortable, I wish I would have had a neck pillow just to try to sleep.

(2) Bring an extra carry-on-- I brought a backpack and then another fairly large bag, which I just stored in the overhead compartments. I found that extra bag came in handy for gifts and other little miscellaneous items that I did not want to be stored in my checked bag.

(3) Pack a sweatshirt or sweater for the lectures that you attend-- in almost all of our lectures they had the air conditioning blasting and it was hard to pay attention sometimes when all you could think about was how cold you are.

(4) Remember to journal-- even though it may seem like it's taking up too much of your time, journal all the time (it might seem like a lot and it probably won't happen, but try for every night). It really is worth it at the end when you can read your journal and it brings all those feelings back to you. Also, try to be as descriptive as possible, instead of just simply saying what you did that day-- you have an itinerary for that.

(5) Do not overpack-- upon my return I realized how much I had packed that I didn't wear. Just pack the basics and clothes that you can switch around-- scarves are great and easy way to change up an outfit. Also, I did a load of laundry in the bathtub at Chiang Rai-- I did not think it was worth it. My clothes took forever to dry and it was a pain to wash them in the tub. But if you're desperate to do laundry then I would do it in the tub b/c through the hotel is usually pretty expensive.

Take in every minute of the trip & don't take anything for granted! Experience all that Thailand has to offer-- elephant riding, zip-lining, the nightlife. I would give anything to be traveling again so live it up while you're over there!

Reflections Since Returning Home

So it has been a week since we have returned from Thailand and it honestly almost feels like we never even went there-- kind of like a surreal feeling. Reading back through my journal I cannot believe all that we had done in those three weeks. From all of the different hospitals that we had visited to riding an elephant and zip-lining through the rainforest to the hill tribes we visited. All of the experiences made me learn something and opened my eyes to new things or made me see something in a new light.

It was a little bit of a struggle for me adjusting my sleep schedule back. It took me about four days till I was back on my regular sleep schedule and actually able to function during the day. Those first four days all I wanted to do was sleep and lay in bed, but I forced myself to follow my set schedule of school and work, which I believe helped kick this jet lag.

When people ask me how the trip went, I find myself stumbling to answer that question and all I can seem to get out is "it was amazing." It's extremely hard to summarize everything that we did into one word, or even one sentence. I found it was easier to explain our trip once I was able to rely on the pictures that I took, but I found it difficult to describe all the feelings that came with that experience. I'm in the process of working a scrapbook dedicated for this trip and I plan to put everything in this book-- pictures I took (some that I stole from others, my journals and blog posts, and some memorable items / brochures that I picked up during the trip). I'm hoping to be done with this by the end of the semester, but we'll see how that fits into my schedule.

Back in the states by Casie Peyton

It’s hard to believe that the trip is done. I defiantly miss the warm weather! I have been super busy since getting home. I moved into a new house. This required lots of painting, moving, and unpacking, but I'm glad to finally be mostly settled into a new place.

I cannot pretend that I wasn't excited to be home and see the friends and family members that I missed, but it’s bitter sweet knowing that I may never be able to go back to that beautiful country.

I will always remember how welcoming and friendly the Thai culture is. That is one aspect that really stuck out during our travels. It is so much different than the Minnesotan culture. I think that I will try to incorporate some of that into my day to day life. Saying good morning to strangers in an elevator or talking to people I don’t know on the street doesn’t seem so scary and inappropriate anymore.

I also miss all the amazing people I traveled with. I could not imagine experiencing all those new things with a better group of individuals. I hope that we will all stay in touch.

So, until we meet again. Be safe, take care, and its been quite a ride.

Tips for future trip participants from Casie Peyton

You are in for a real adventure. I would not take back this experience for anything in the world.

However, I do have a few words of advice. You really should get a prescription for an upset stomach. The food is different than what we eat in the states, and even though you might think you will be able to handle it without any problems. It is better to be safe than sorry!

Also, be sure to bring small packets of laundry detergent. It was pretty expensive to get your clothes washed at the hotels we stayed in. So, you might want to wash your things up in a bath tub.

Finally, be sure to bring some nice clothes for going out to dinner. I did not expect to go out to nice restaurants, and I really regretted not bringing proper going out clothes. You can buy clothes when you are there, but keep in mind that if you are tall or heavy, it will be difficult to find things in your size.

Other than that, use your best judgment when packing. Like I said, the trip is amazing and you will have a great time. Just be sure to keep an open mind when going to a new and exotic country!

Tips and advice from Katie K. for the next Thai adventurers:

The trip was amazing first of all. I want to go back right now and relive it all, but I would only change a few things. First, I would bring a bigger carry on bag. The carry on bag I brought was only a lap top bag, but on the flight home, I wish I had a bigger bag to stow away my gifts that I had purchased for everybody. Two: bring a neck pillow for the long flight and bus rides. Three: some adapter and converters do not work as well as others, make sure you ask about which one is best. Four: my hair straightener burnt out because of the conversion of electricity. If it is valuable do not use the electronic in Thailand. Five: pack more clothes that you would wear everyday or to experience the night life. I brought only clothes that I thought were appropriate for visiting hospitals and such, and I wish I would have brought more of what I like to wear everyday. Six: experience all that you can, and immerse yourself in the culture. When the group goes out to experience the city, join in because you never know what kind of stories they will come back with that you missed out on. Seven: after a while, you may get sick of the Thai food, but just try to keep eating it and find something different that you like. By the end of the trip I had realized how much money I spent on western food and wish I hadn't. Thai food is much cheaper and healthier. I still cant get over the fact that I am home in Minnesota. I wish I was back in Thailand. To future Thailand travelers: make the most of your experience. Be open to learning and experiencing new things and you will have the ultimate adventure!

Re-entry after three weeks in Thailand by Naomi Timm

It seems surreal, almost as if it didn't happen. As if I simply imagined or dreamed that I went to this all sorts of awesome country filled with contradictory beauty and development. If it wasn’t for every one's pictures on Facebook or my family and friends probing me about my Thailand trip. I could probably convince myself that it all was indeed one very awesome life changing dream. But it was real. It really did happen. I was in Thailand.

Having gone on academic abroad trips before, I anticipated certain group dynamics, emotions and culture shock both during and after the trip. However, I don’t think one can ever really prepare for the slap in the face that is reality upon returning from such a life changing trip. Thailand was a deeply spiritual journey for me and I was determined to return back to the flow of life with serious focus and enlightenment. Only my ambitions did not take into account the ridiculous power of jet lag. As I fought through the 5pm sleepiness and the 3am restlessness, I scrambled to get myself organized for class and work. This seemed to consume all my energy and focus so when someone asked me how my trip was I was only really able to respond, “awesome”. I wanted so badly to express how amazing Thailand was, but I was unable to articulate my experience. I’m still unable to articulate it. In fact, alongside my extreme fatigue, this past week I felt annoyed and agitated. I was annoyed with myself because I couldn't’ clearly describe the impact the Thai culture had on me. I was annoyed with my friends because they lacked the perspective to fully appreciate my stories or understand my personal growth. I was annoyed with myself because being annoyed went against whole growing experience from this trip. I wanted to be back in Thailand where I felt centered and at peace.

Thankfully, once I got over my awful jet lag and mini self pity party, I was able to refocus and regain that peace. I love checking my facebook newsfeed to see someone has posted facebook pictures from Thailand. I love going back and reading through my journal and reading every one’s blogs. It’s almost as if I’m reliving the entire experience again. I may not be able to put into words what exactly I learned on this Thai adventure, but it’s pretty cool that there are 17 other people who can look at a picture and know exactly what I want to articulate!

Advice

My advice for the next people going on the trip would be...

While you are preparing for the trip, no matter how much you think your ready, reading or seeing pictures is nothing like the actual experience you are about to have. You can get ready as much as you like but you will get there and you will absolutely be blown away...in a good way. When packing make sure you have clothing for the lectures, and a little sweater they love the air conditioning. Also bring some clothing for if you plan to go and see some of the night life, there always is something going on and fun to check out.

When you are in Thailand, try everything, food, transportation, and maybe even try to learn some of the language. I only could say a few words but if I would have known more that would have been helpful. When you are there go out adventure out utilize your free time there is so much to do. I had a travel book with me and looked up places to go and then when we could we went to the places, or we asked the local Thai people where we should go. There was never a dull moment, everywhere we went we had a fabulous time.

Try to be a go getter and do as much as you can but also make sure your getting your rest. Make the most of your trip, this will be something you will remember forever. If you want to do something do it don't let anything hold you back. Lastly, have fun be open get to know your group members. The better you all get along the more fun you all will have together.

Returning Home

I have been home for a week now. It has been an adjustment returning from Thailand to home. From the trip I gained so much knowledge, not just from the lectures. While in Thailand, I learned and realized one can live a full and happy life with just the bare necessities. Simplicity, is a common word that in our final discussion everyone mentioned. The trip opened my eyes, being back at home I have started to make adjustments in my life, and trying to live a more calm and happy upbeat life. Everyone in Thailand was always so happy, Thai Happy. The Buddhist lifestyle is so calming, and is something that greatly intrigued me, I have been trying to learn more about Buddhism and learn from the knowledge of the Buddha. Being home is bittersweet.
I can tell that I am a different person, and that the trip has had a large impact on me. Coming home and having to get ready for school, and all the other things I have going on has been crazy. While I was in Thailand I was able to step back and really enjoy where I was and not have to rush or feel like there was something I needed to be doing. I have been trying to adjust my life and continue to step back slow things down, get ahead and truly be calmer.

The Thailand experience could not have been better, I am so lucky to have gone with such amazing people. Being back and not seeing everyone is very sad, we all had a wonderful time together and I met people and made memories that I will never forget. As I continue to make adjustments from what I learned in Thailand, I am starting a new chapter in my life. I am so blessed for the experience I had, and will always think back about how lucky I am and was for the wonderful experience.

Advice from Joe C. for the next Thailand group

There are so many pieces of my glorious trip to Thailand that I could share with prospective student travelers of the Families and Healthcare Businesses in Thailand seminar in future years. I could share what my favorite things were, what I think others should do while they are in the country, what I would advise against, etc. However, I find myself struggling to do this, because the majority of my most memorable experiences in Thailand that have really shaped the new, cultured "Joe" happened out of pure accident. They were not planned or premeditated, and I think that's what made them so pure and so special. That is what made them so memorable and effective in my current life. Thus, I will just say a few things that I feel I would have liked to have known before departing to the other side of the world.

1). When in doubt-- don't pack it!! In other words, it is very easy to over-prepare or over-think when it comes to gearing up for travel. Everywhere you go in Thailand (especially the North) is A LOT less expensive on all levels than America. I can tell you over and over how cheap everything I bought was, but you cannot even begin to fathom how little money you actually spend when it comes to shopping until you go there and see it for yourself. Buy clothes in the country! The country has great style options for such a bargain! The authentic Thai clothes are beautiful, but American-style clothes or far more prevalent if you just want a simple t-shirt or need a last minute option. The more you pack beforehand, the less room you have to buy more things...and you WILL want to buy more things. Also, (this is not a joke) BRING TOILET PAPER. The rumors you have heard are tue. Often times it is not included in your bathroom experience, or it is but for a small fee. Travel-sized toilet paper is the best option in this case.

2). Eat new foods!!! American food in Thailand is often different than what you may be comfortable with anyways and it is more expensive than Thai selections. I tried almost every food option when I was in Thailand, from various Curry dishes to dried squid, and I was never disappointed. I loved how everything was so rich and bold in flavor. However, for many people, spice level and the strength of certain herbs in a dish can be an issue. If this is the case...there are still plenty of authentic Thai cuisine options, such as fried rice or Pad Thai.

3). During your free time, I would suggest using a travel book as a resource and exploring and restaurants, fun neighborhoods, exhibits, or bars that you can. Half of the fun experienced in a foreign country is what you do independently or with close friends---not in a big group of sixteen. Even if you do not want to spend money or you are tired or you don't have access to a taxi of sorts, do nothing IN Thailand. In other words, allow yourself to sit outside and just observe. Walk aimlessly around the streets. Do and BE nothing but a simple tourist soaking everything in. This creates excellent moments of reflection and relaxation. My biggest regret is that I did not just soak in everything more. When I was tired...I simply laid in my hotel bed instead of further exposing myself to the cities I was in. I learned I regretted this when I realized my greatest self-discovery was achieved on a purposeless walk or a random adventure to the grocery store down the road.

Final Reflection on Thailand from Joe Cardomone

As of today it has been almost a week since I departed from Bangkok, Thailand on January 15, 2012. The remarkable thing about returning home from such an intense, other-side-of-the-world trip like one to Thailand is that one finally realizes everything that they have gained as a result. In other words, while actually in the experience itself, I was so busy having fun and exploring this colorful, refreshing culture that I had hardly any time to reflect or even recognize how I was growing and learning so rapidly with every step I took in this unknown land. It was not until I first began to see my close friends and family after I landed in Minneapolis that I was knowledgeable of what this trip really did to affect the rest of my life.

I have always viewed life simply as a bunch of “stuff” that happens to me. I never understood the role I played in my own story or the fact nothing or nobody has an impact on my life more so than myself personally. For some people, this fact is probably obvious. However, for me, it took traveling over twenty hours to a country that is so deeply rooted in its own meaning and spirituality to realize this idea. I have learned all of the factors of our lives are merely a result of our relationships with ourselves and the outside world. I feel that the phrase “mind over matter” is a completely truthful one, and I have seen my compounded strength as a result of knowing how much I am capable of overcoming the negative shadows of my life. I now seek only positive, insightful experiences and I can truly say I have only the wonderful “Land of Smiles” to thank for this. Someday, I plan to return to Thailand and become active in the volunteer circuit, specifically in the slum childcare area of development. Until then, I am just a boy looking to go on a new adventure and packing with his luggage all of the amazing life’s lessons he learned from the last one.

Advice by Veronica

It is really difficult to give advice to people when traveling abroad because you don't know where they are coming from, but I have a couple things that I know would have helped me I don't know if it will help others, but hopefully it will.

1) Be careful when having good or bad expectations. Expectations can ruin something especially if you are easily disappointed. Thailand won't let you down, but you don't want to expect too much or something super extravagant and you don't want to expect bad experiences either because they will be bad if you go into it negatively.

2) Talk to other tourists. I thought that I didn't wan't to go to many touristy areas when I got there, but when I did, I met people that gave me advice that turned out to be useful. Talk to the locals too, they obviously know what they are talking about!

3) "Stop and smell the flowers." I don't necessarily mean this in a literal sense, but definitely live in the moment. Have fun with whatever you are doing and let the experiences take you away, but every once in a while just stop and look around and take it in. :) It feels great.

4) Let go of your schedule and let go of plans. No matter what you are doing in Thailand you will always end up not doing something that you anticipated doing or you will end up doing something that you didn't anticipate doing. If you just go with the flow you will have a much better time than getting all worked up about getting lost or attending some academic event that you weren't expecting.

5) Have as much fun as possible! How often are you going to be in Thailand?! Or in Naomi Timm's words "Be a fun haver!" :) I got annoyed with people when they told me this when I was tired, but I'm glad that I didn't miss out on all the fun. Looking back I know I would have probably wished that I went out more if I didn't.

I'm a Completely Different Person by Katie Koppy

Now that I am back home in Minnesota, I feel like a completely different person. I still don't know how or why, but something is just different. Thailand gave me some kind of drive to do better with my life and I am already seeing it within my actions. For instance, I used to never be able to wake up in the morning or have the motivation to. In Thailand, my sleep patterns got back on track, and I found that when you wake up early you get so much accomplished in one day and that there is so much to be seen and learned. Off of that idea, I find that I constantly want to be busy and active within my life. In Thailand, our schedules were so busy with activities and memories. I have carried this busy habit home with me. I see this in that I want to be busy and active and do more recreational activities outside of school, home, and work. Thailand also made me appreciate my life and the blessings I have that much more. Some of the people in Thailand don't have much, yet they are all so happy. There was only a few times that I met an angry or upset Thai person. I hope to always be seen this way: having a positive attitude and always smiling. Being home is a bittersweet feeling. I was happy to see my family and friends, but I will miss the memories and friends I have made in Thailand. I will forever hold my Thai and American friends in my heart. Thank you to everyone who made this experience so memorable for me. I love each and every one of you. I hope that we are not all strangers because I would love to see you all again!

Values by Veronica

As I begin the new semester with my new classes and as I continue my job, my relationships and my life I still don't know what to think or feel. I know that I got a lot of information, but I'm not really sure what to do with it yet.

Before I left for Thailand, other students who studied abroad said that my perspective would change when I came back; something would click and my perspective would be different. I'm not sure that it is true for me because I have been to Korea and the Virgin Islands in addition to Thailand, but I'm still unsure. I'm not hearing the clicks and I'm not really seeing the difference. I know what another part of the world looks like, smells like, and what the people are like and what they are struggling with. I know I want to do something about it. I'm not sure what to do with the information that I have gained.

I think that the only thing that I have noticed that is different is values. I have seen what the Thai people value, it is evident all throughout the country. I think that it is interesting seeing the differences between their values and ours. They do not value safety as much as us; it is very evident when driving through traffic. The tuk-tuk's are wide open, no one wears a seatbelt, no one wears a helmet, they ride up to 4 people on one moped and they have no regard for traffic laws.

It was interesting to see how they educated their children on sex education and how it reflects the differences between our values and theirs. It was surprising that the nurses at the nursing school were so surprised that sex education was a highly debated topic in the United States. I guess people in the U.S. see sex differently. I think that parents see sex education as a way to prevent unwanted pregnancy more than preventing STI's or HIV/AIDS, but was probably vice versa for people in Thailand.

I think a lot of what I saw in Thailand that I really appreciated was their practicality. They valued rational more than personal beliefs. It is true for the examples above; they don't need to follow traffic laws if they know the risk, they don't need to worry about exposing their children to sex early because the research already showed that they were already sexually active. I'm not really sure if they really do value logic and rational more than personal beliefs or values, but regardless it makes me realize how easily we can get caught up or just lean on our government system rather than using logic or rational to make the best decisions.

Remembering where I was by Kiarra McClain

Looking back on my experience I have mixed emotions
Did I come in open minded enough?
Did I relax my guard and live in the moment?
Was I as carefree as I could be?
But then I stop and look back
I close my eyes, open my ears and listen to my heart
I watch myself put those babies to sleep
I watch myself get on the back of a motorcycle, the wind stroking my curls
I hear Katie’s voice for the first time and see Cathy’s moves
I feel the unleveled gravel beneath my feet
I see the dogs searching for shade
I taste sticky rice and fried pork
I relive the moment, hearing the heavy breathing from the intensive walks,
Feeling my right hand cramp up from gripping the pen so tightly, making my marks on the page
And then I look forward and I see new.

Reflecting is something that I did all throughout this experience. I took notes, wrote poems and took pictures to capture my feelings at that moment. This poem describes some anxieties that I feel everyone has when they return from such an amazing high. Did I do enough, or was I in my own way? But to tackle that question I realized is foolery. I did what I felt I needed to do, I saw what my eyes allowed, I heard what my ears could take and I touched what my hands could feel, I did what I needed to do. It would be unjust to say that more couldn’t have been done. Longer walks, less time in my comfort zone, more exploring, less sightseeing all could be altered but yield different experiences. To say I should have done more would be to say I should have changed my experience; my anger and happiness, my un-comfortableness and my moments of content, but why would I want to do that? My experience is just that, my experience and to question that would be to question my growth. As a Christian, as a Black woman, as a Plus size woman, as a sister, as a daughter, as a girlfriend, as a friend and as a person I have changed and I can’t change that. Looking back is positive and helpful. I feel as though it’s needed so I can remember where I was, but that’s only so I can measure how far I go.
Thanks for listening.

Using What I Learned from Thailand by Ginny Anderson

I can't believe a week ago today we were in Thailand and I felt too hot. Right about now I am missing not only that heat but also the memories we were making. My first full day back in the states took a bit of adjusting to. I started my first day at a full time job, and I was extremely jet lagged. That morning I drove back to Duluth, and I found myself in shock that the roads were so clear. Traffic was nothing compared to what we had seen in the last three weeks. When I got to work, I found out that day that I wouldn't get to unpack my suit cases for long; I had to leave town for work the next morning at 7:30 for the rest of the week. Being exhausted and overwhelmed, I was not too enthused to be staying in a hotel for another week. I just wanted to get settled back into my life in the states and then let things take off. As the week has passed though, I have reminded myself of the things I learned in Thailand. From the Thai culture I have learned to be happy with where you are and what you have. Even though I am tired, I need to remind myself to keep a positive attitude and just SMILE. I could not be more happy with the position I accepted, and I am very fortunate to finally be working in my chosen career. In all reality, I have nothing to be complaining about, and Thailand has showed me that. I am so very blessed that I was able to experience Thailand and all of the adventures that our group embarked on together. Now that I am back in the states, I am on to my next adventure in auditing. I just want to thank you all for making my Thailand experience what it was, AMAZING!! I will never forget any of you! :)

Reverse Culture Shock and Jet Lag, but yet a Learning Experience

After being home for a couple of days, I am still adjusting in all areas. First off, I am so jet lagged. I cannot seem to get back on my normal sleep schedule. Now with school started and deadlines and due dates already approaching, being sleep deprived is affecting my productivity. In addition to school starting, as soon as I got back up to Duluth, I had to get out my planner and plan out my week and make a to do list. This is completely opposite from “Thai time” where I was simply just living in the moment. If I had a choice I would much rather live the Thai way, but I know with my busy schedule I would loose my mind.

Aside from school starting and being tired, I find myself having a little bit of reverse culture shock. Although three weeks isn’t a huge amount of time to be away, it was enough time to change my perspective and feel comfortable in a different culture. I am used to seeing many Thai people and having them look at me because I was the minority, and when I did see other Caucasian people it was almost automatic to want to ask them where they were from, because often times they were from the states or Europe. This was exciting as a foreigner. Now back home I see Caucasians and people may think I am crazy if I asked where they are from. And even though Thailand was busy, especially Bangkok, there was no attitude involved with the busyness. For example, in traffic there is road rage here that people in Thailand don’t have. It is going to take some time to adjust.

Most importantly, this was such a great learning experience in all areas. It simply became clearer to me that I love learning, and being a prospective teacher that is probably a good thing. I love learning about myself, what and who I value, what I believe, and what really makes me happy. Apart from growing within myself, I also love learning academically. I want to be a well-rounded person with knowledge in many areas. This trip was a great eye opener on my perspectives about life and who I am and want to be. I am grateful for the professors, new friends, and sister I got to spend this life-changing trip with. Thank you!

Advice

Although it is my wish for everyone to go on this trip and make memories and experiences of their own, I would like to share a little advice to make the trip just a little bit better than mine, but I am not sure if that is possible. :)

First and foremost, be open-minded and willing to learn and grow! This in my opinion is crucial. You will be pushed outside of your comfort zone to do, see, smell, taste, and feel things you have never done before. Be open to immerse yourself into the culture and take in the many things that Thailand has to offer. You can form and opinion of something after you have tried it and it can be either good or bad, but please try it first. When you are being pushed outside your levels, this is when the most learning and growing occurs. It will scary at first, but remember you may never be able to do something like this again so make the most of it while you are there. I am a true believer in that you get out of it what you put into it and this held true for my trip to Thailand. I was truly open and ready to learn and grow and that is why I believe I had such an amazing experience. Being open to step outside the box will make your time in Thailand even better and your experiences much more memorable.

Secondly, journal everyday. This may be difficult because the days get long and busy and at the end of the day you may be exhausted, but sooner you do it you will be able to remember exactly what you were thinking and feeling and get it down on paper. You will also not only be able to look back at it five years later and realize how great your experiences were, but you will also be able to look back at it a week later and the memories will stay fresh. Just in general it may be helpful to document everything. Make a quote book of the crazy things people in your group say or quotes that you hear in a lecture that really inspire you. You will truly appreciate it later.

There are many pieces of advice that could be said, but being willing to grow is what will truly make this trip uniquely yours!

Advice for Future Thailand Travelers

After reading my traveling counterparts submissions, it is difficult to think of original responses, but I will do my best! First of all, every person will take something different away from this experience which may be either good or bad. From my Thailand experience, you MUST keep an open mind! You have to be ready for just about anything and everything. Second, go with the flow and live in the moment. If you have a difficult time changing destinations or plans on the fly, you will most likely get frustrated. This trip has taught me so many things that I would have never learned in school and despite its harsh price tag, it is worth every dollar. I not only gained a deeper and broader perspective on life, but I made some long-lasting relationships that I am greatly appreciative of.

Before you leave for Thailand, be sure to explore the many dimensions of their cuisine. It will make for a little smoother transition into the trip, but fear not, you will find western style food establishments in larger cities such as Bangkok if it doesn't work out. All in all, it is very important to take a little time out of the day and the places you had been to reflect. Reflect, reflect, reflect. If you don't, you may miss out on how ideas and experiences made you feel. By placing an emotion or feeling to something you did, it will help you establish a long-lasting memory.

Well, that's all I have for the next travelers. I hope you take away as much, if not more, from Thailand than I did and that you truly let it change you for the better. Until next time...

My Lost Blog--Blog #4

I wrote this blog in Bangkok but it failed to post here on blogger. Let’s try this again!

The lecture we attended at Bumrungrad International Hospital was one that affected me the most. I hope to have a career as a hospital administrator one day, and the material presented created excitement for my future. The entire concept of this hospital was quite intriguing as well; the overall environment felt more like a hotel than a hospital. The facility was very modern and had basically all the amenities of a hospital especially the patients rooms that closely resembled an apartment. I was also astonished to know how less expensive their health care is compared to ours in the United States. Some surgeries can cost one-fourth or one-eighth the price we pay domestically. Even the financial reporting aspect of Bumrungrad was impressive. They are reporting at an impressive margin, partially due to the amount of patients they receive paying out of pocket (cash, essentially). I also was surprised that they do little advertising and marketing to countries around the world in which they rely on patients telling other people about their experiences at Bumrungrad. Simply amazing, I can barely wrap my head around it. All in all, I really learned a number of things that I can take back to the US in hopes to make a small difference in a rather large problem we are facing.

Advice from Dave for the next group going on the Thailand course

It’s hard for me to write this. Everyone’s experience will be unique to them. It is up to the individual to make their experience. I’d only suggest that whenever someone travel he or she try to be as open to new things as possible. If things were the same as before, or if you’re hoping for them to be, there isn’t really a point to traveling at all. I believe one ought to make an effort to push one’s self outside their comfort zone. So, expect nothing but be ready for anything.

That being said, there are some things that will inevitably be the same with our trips. The lectures were all really interesting. If you have the time, the more research you can do to get an understanding of the Thai culture and healthcare system before hand the more you’ll get out of the lectures. Don’t be afraid to go out and do what you want on your own or with a few people. It’s too hard to go everywhere with a big group so the group will have to split up at some point - and that’s okay. Don’t expect people to speak English - it’s probably best if you assume they don’t speak any English. Write in your journal. It will help you remember the trip but it will also help you understand it as you go along - thinking critically is the essential part. You’re going to be tired so push through it - you’ll thank yourself later for doing so. In the end nothing is neither good nor bad, as those are human concepts we ourselves apply to things relatively. Those that get to go on the next trip ought to be excited and ought to be ready to experience new things. I’m fully confident, even if the specifics of the trip are different, that the trip will be well worth it and will be a great experience.

“Back to Reality” by Dave Zablocki

“Back to Reality”

That’s what my mother said on the way back from the airport. I realized then what an oxymoronic phrase that is. The word reality in that phrase implies that where ever I was essentially wasn’t reality - or that where I was broke from my reality. Back, in that phrase, implies I must return to a state where I had been before. The phrase all together implies an inexorable movement to what was before and must be once again. And, that simply is wrong.

I’ve grown from my experience. I am a different person than I was before. Because of the growth I’ve incurred my perception and definition of reality have actually changed. To go “back to reality” would be to dismiss all that I’ve learned and become. The feelings are confusing when returning home. I feel that things should be different as I’m different. But, I see it as a challenge to live my life dignified with the new experience I’ve gained back in Minnesota. In fact, my time in Thailand felt more “real” than my time back home. I think it comes from the attitude I had while in Thailand. The sincere openness to new experiences, learning, and growth, brought on by traveling to a new place, should be carried to my everyday life with the same fervor.

I went to Thailand with a set of principles to guide my life and I came back with an affirmation that I’m on the right track. I found some of my own prospects of life align with some of the major principles in Buddhism, yet I arrived at them much differently. The kindness of the people I met along the way reminded me to have faith in humanity. The energy I maintained seemingly out of will by the prospect of adventure is something I ought to have no matter where I am. Back to reality is a phrase I will never use as I see it relates to a desire for consistency in an inconsistent environment. Oscar Wilde said, “consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” Well, I won’t go back to an unimaginative reality, I’ll go to Minnesota with a realization of the perpetual state of growth and change we’re all destined to live within. I won’t go back to anywhere, I’ll go to there, wherever there is, with a smile.

Once in a lifetime opportunity by Casey Churchill

These past few days I have been in the states, it has really opened my eyes to what I learned in Thailand; both personally and academically.

First off, I would like to say that I wouldn’t have changed how I spent this trip in anyway. It was a once in a lifetime experience and I made some pretty great friends on this trip. So thank you everybody, for making it so special. If it weren’t for you, it would have been completely different.
Secondly, I have noticed that I have become a changed person since I have gone and came back to the states. First off, I’m a lot more care and stress free. I can see this in a multitude of situations. Traffic; I have seen family and friends get angry because they reached a red light, or somebody cut them off. I look at them and just giggle inside and say “Chill, it’s not the end of the world, were not in that big of a rush.” I feel a lot more patient in these types of circumstances. Also, before Thailand I would sleep in and take a TON of naps. Since being in Thailand and we did SO much and accomplished so many things in one day, I have realized that I should get the adequate amount of sleep at night and get all I can from the day at hand. Why waste it away sleeping till 12? It really is a waste of a day when I do that. As said before, when in Thailand, I am so much more appreciative of my friends, family, and housing. I really am blessed, and that is just a personal lesson I learned. I can’t put it into words on how I learned it or where it came to stand, it just happened. I hope these life changing lessons really do stay with me and don’t fade over time.

After visiting Thailand and seeing their health care system, it makes me so angry; so aggravated. The health care system here in the United States should resemble Thailand’s is some sort of way. But it doesn’t! It is completely inefficient and ineffective! We pay so much for so little. This includes the quality of care, the actual care given, the length of stay and the type of care. We really need to get it together! My sister deals with seizures that aren’t linked to epilepsy; it has something to do with scar tissue on her brain. She has had brain surgery once to try to solve the problem, but it hasn’t worked. The medicine only gives her side effects and she’s a blossoming 20 year old woman. She is looking into another brain surgery, as the outcomes are higher. There’s one problem; her insurance might not cover it. I have been explaining the Bumrungrad International hospital to her and my mother and it might be an option to visit Thailand once again!

I had a great trip, and the memories will stay with me forever. Thanks again everybody for a once in a lifetime opportunity :)

Advice from Casey C. for the next group going on the Thailand course

Some advice to the next group conquering Thailand:
I went to Thailand over J-term 2012, it was a life changing experience. This is not an exaggeration or some trick to get you to think about going; it really opened my eyes. There's a few things I want to let you know before you go. Please take them into consideration, as it was advice I had received or wish I had received prior to going.

1.Try Thai food before going and know one dish you like. The food in Thailand is very different that what most Americans are used to. By knowing you like one dish, it will open your eyes to other dishes as well. If your not sure that the food is right for you, some of the girls I traveled with brought peanut butter and that helped them a ton. Just be sure to pack it in your checked luggage (Right Acacia Marie?) And this is a once in a lifetime experience, so if your stomach can handle it, try crazy and exotic food! When is the next time you can try dried squid? :)

2. As soon as you get to the airport start connecting with others. Or even before; through facebook or email. I was blessed to go with an amazing group of people who all got along. It took us about a week to get to this point. So start getting to know each other asap! The relationships you build on this trip will become life long friends (or they did for the group that went in 2012).

3. Travel light. There's nothing worse than having a bunch of stuff to lug around from one hotel to the next. And there is a TON of markets over there and lots of shopping to do. So if you can, bring simple items that you can wear with different items. (Girls: maxi-skirts and sundresses will be your best friend) Dress modestly when going to lectures and field trips. Bring closed toed shoes. Bring clothes you'd want to go out in at night.

4. Go to the skybar in Bangkok. It's where the hangover 2 took place and it's a great opportunity to see the city at night. It's very classy.

5. Be open to new ideas. Try new things. All in all, have fun and enjoy the ride. The three weeks will go by faster than you want them to.

The Power in Simplicity by Kiarra McCain

Looking back over my notes I can’t help be see so many themes. While abroad as a group we often brought up the practicality of the people in Thailand. The systems, rules and overall way of life, could be categorized as simple. They do what’s needed to be done and worry about the rest when the rest presents itself. They believe in simple rules; do good and good will happen or concepts like have a social worker present when dealing with victims of the sex trafficking world because they’re trained in that area. All of these things seem simple and obvious but it’s a way of life that most of us here in the states couldn’t imagine living.

There, we met a man that was working on the problems of the river. The river was being used for commercial business from other countries but it’s a river that has been used for survival for the Thai’s. His job is to educate and come up with solutions as to how to gain control of the usage of the river so that the Thai people can maintain their way of life. The problem was big, but the way they’re going about fixing it is complex and simple at the same time. He educates the people on the situation and has meetings with all parties involved to come up with solutions. This is powerful. Not only is it a reminder of the power that the grassroots people have no matter the country, but the power of a good leader. He explained how they talk about the river, and it’s in such a practical way. They don’t talk about it in terms of science. They talk about it in terms of immediate consequences and life. The education piece is something that’s shared. As a group they educate each other on the usage of the river and they unite communities to figure out a way to solve the issue. Our presenter simply said “We talk about it in a way that makes sense, we don’t have conversations about distant consequences but we talk about the immediate…the fisherman would suffer meaning the food supply would go down…things that make sense to their lives”. If only we could communicate more effectively like our Thai counterparts, so many issues would be minimized, internalize, and solved, but apparently that’s too simple.

Advice from Kiarra for the next group going on the Thailand course

Hey guys, my name is Kiarra but everybody calls me Key. For 2011-2012 Winter term I was blessed to go to Thailand with an amazing group of people. As we all know, no matter how much you study in advance or research the best places to go while abroad, the abroad experience itself teaches those things all over again. With that in mind, my goal is not to try and teach or “warn” you of anything but to share my experience. The biggest advice I have is to go with an open mind, but not just an open mind towards the experience, but an open mind towards how others will experience you.

I am a 5’5 African American plus size woman and that’s something that I’ve never been ashamed of. Going on this trip, I never thought about how much my looks would play into my experience. Because of my confidence, I never stopped to think of how different I would look compared to the majority (if not all) the people I would see, but that’s where I made my mistake. Because I didn’t think about this before, once I got their and noticed the stares, it took me by surprise. In the beginning, I was very offended, and even angered at the way I was stared at every time I stepped off the bus or outside the hotel, but once I reflected on it, it made more sense. Yes, I still feel as though it was rude. The pointing and staring and secretly taking pictures are something that I can’t dismiss, but the reasoning was where my comfort lied. I looked at it as a way to teach. I saw myself as a learning tool and trail blazer. I believe it’s safe to say I was one of the first black people (most of) these people had ever seen, so I saw it as a way to break down barriers between the two culture groups. Unfortunately because of the language barrier, I wasn’t able to have conversations with them, but actions really do speak louder than words.

From my story I would like members of the next group to take away the power or need to reflect. Without reflecting on my feelings while abroad I would have probably became very angry and shut down from the group and experience but because I had a journal, I was able to get out all my feelings and read them later to reflect. I also want you guys to know that no one will experience Thailand like you, not even the people that you go with so don’t expect them to. Having a journal is really important. Not just a notebook that you would take notes in during lectures, but a journal that you can be blunt and honest with. Aside from that remember to have fun and that this is a once in a life time opportunity so live it up every day, or in the words of Alex, “Fire up!”

Change and transition... Post by Casey Peyton

Hello from Bangkok. We are about to head to the airport to begin our long journey home. It is hard to believe how quickly these last three weeks have come and gone. What is even more difficult to believe is how many experiences I have had in this time. We have done so many amazing things while I have been here, and I know that I have grown so much as a person.

It is hard knowing that we are leaving this beautiful country, but it's bittersweet knowing that I will see all my friends and family again so soon. I wonder how hard the culture change will be for me once I get back home, because I have a bit of a special case. I am not only moving back home to Minnesota, but I am graduating and moving back to the town where I grew up. I know that I am not the same person I was when I graduated high school. So, I'm curious to see how this adjustment will work out for me.

I will be sure to get back to all of you in a weeks time to explain how the move and adjustment works out. Also, I have a job interview on Tuesday that I am extremely excited about. I will let you know how that goes.

So, until then, be safe and see you soon.

Calm Amidst Chaos in Thailand: Reflections by Amanda Brueshoff

I can't believe that we are leaving Thailand today! It is very bittersweet for me. I have enjoyed so much about this trip, this country, the culture and the people... I feel like I have just started to finally fully adjust to things and get used to the lifestyle here and now we have to leave :(

Bangkok has been an experience in itself - it's a city that has such life and energy. I have really enjoyed taking in all that this city has to offer... the many sites, sounds and smells. I love walking through the streets, wandering around the markets and people watching. It is a different pace than how it was in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, a lot more chaos it seems... but I think the "chaos" is what has made it so interesting for me. There is so much going on all of the time - the traffic itself is enough to keep you on your toes. The funny thing is, to me, amidst the busy hustle and bustle that I have noticed in Thailand, I still have a sense of relaxation and simplicity when here. This don't seem as complicated as they do back at home, life seems simpler and I think that is something I will miss the most. I believe a lot of this comes from the culture of the Thai people, and maybe relates to some of the Buddhist principles that we have learned so much about... self realization, simplicity, peace of mind, happiness... even in a busy city, I can sense these things in the people around me and I have started to feel it myself.

Overall, I have enjoyed putting my life in perspective while being on this trip and looking at things from a different lens. This experience has opened my eyes to so many new experiences and overall has taught me so much about myself, about how i want to live my life and about what really is important. Upon returning home, I just hope I can keep these things with me and remember all that I have gotten out of this trip. I love Thailand and all I have experienced while being here... it's a beautiful place and the people I have met while here have made it all that much better. So, this is why I say that leaving is bittersweet - I miss home but I also know that I will miss being here once I am back into my normal routine. It's been 3 weeks that I will never forget and I can only hope that I will come back someday!

Thai Traditional Medicine Post by Casey Peyton

We have arrived back in Bangkok. Yesterday we spent the day at a beach in Pattaya. It was amazing. I loved spending some time in the sun and seeing one of this country's beautiful beaches. I really noticed how close we were to the equator because even though I was adamant about using sunscreen I still got pretty burnt. It was defiantly worth it, and I think that yesterday was one of my most enjoyable afternoons here.

Today we went to Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital Foundation in Prachinburi. This hospital is world renowned for their use of alternative medicine. It was interesting to learn their utilization of herbal and massage therapies. I liked that they were using both traditional and modern scientific western practices in their treatment methods.

I purchased some herbal face lotion (mostly for my new sunburn) and I am excited to see how it works out.

Tomorrow we are debriefing, and we will be having our farewell lunch/dinner. Saturday will be a free day and then we will be heading home. So, until I see you all again, be safe and I miss you very much.

Coming full circle in Thailand.... Post by Noami Timms

The vibrant symbolic colors, the delightfully kind and occasionally incongruent smiles of the Thai people, the souvenirs shop worker's playful persistence, the humorous and insightful monks/tour guides, the bustle of other tourist, the aggressive yet amazingly alert traffic, the deliciously inviting scent of street vendor Thai food and overwhelming aroma of a crowded urban city, and the wonderfully fun personalities of new friends have all contributed to incredible spiritual, academic, and personal growth.

On our last day in Thailand, I felt all my experiences, conversations, and new knowledge come full circle. What I find so amazing about this spontaneous culture crazed trip is the amount of clarity and perspective it has given me. I have spent the last few years comfortably sitting in the gray of convictions and what are perceived truths both professionally/academically and personally. But with exposure to a culture which has been so different from the one from which I was raised, I recognize the similarities within my very basic human values.

Throughout this trip I have embraced the Buddhist idea of simply just "being". I have tried to take all that there is to take in-smells, sights, knowledge, culture, religion, differing opinions- and explore how all these things have impacted me as a human being. Ajan Cathy used the term "perspective consciousness" referring to the idea that we are products of our culture and being in Thailand has given me perspective to see how this is certainly the case. While I'm absolutely influenced by my life and family back in the States, my awareness of other cultures has provided an opportunity to relate to life and ideas outside my comfort zone. Thus making me exponentionally aware of my 5 senses and he amazing stimuli this country has to offer.

Bangkok's Slum Child Care Center by Kiara Malone on Tues, Jan 10

Today’s visit at the Slum Child Care center was by far my favorite site tour. This center embodies the spirit of social services taking care of the community. Incorporating home visits in their services is a great way to actually learn more about each child’s family. Giving parents the opportunity to be held accountable to the outcome of their children’s lives seems to be the basics of these home visits. I loved the idea of not really allowing parents that actually need more guidance in parenting to hide things from the center. In the parenting program that I work in, parents have the opportunity to put on a show for me but behind closed doors they may not be doing what they tell us they are doing. Thought we hope that the parents we work with are doing their all to maintain and create healthy relationships with their kids as they are going through the custody battles but there is an element that we will never know which is the actual environment of the home. The employees of the program are able to get to know the families that they work with in a much more personal setting. I’m sure that its effectiveness is relevant due to the mere human to human contact that happens. It’s not a program that people are just looking to be paid or feel like they are just “helping out”. The passion for this kind of work must be present in order for there to be results.

Employing women in the slum community was also a great approach to the center, so not only are they uplifting these women by helping them learn how to parent their children but also giving them the opportunity to gain employment skills and an income they may not have had. Being a member of the community and learning how to take care of it they are developing the leaders of tomorrow. So when the founders are no longer running the program they are grooming people that know the system from the inside out to take over. I appreciate Thailand for bring to the fore front of my mind the idea of bringing things full circle. Apart of my career goals is to open a non-profit that can be a resource center for families that are living in urban areas and have financial limitations. I would want areas such as counseling, support groups, awareness workshops, legal services, education development, and career training to be incorporated in the center. It is my hopes to bring individuals in the community full circle in their path to becoming a part of a society that can look forward to a positive future.

bittersweet feelings

Today is our last day. I cannot believe it, 3 weeks ago at this time I was sitting at home celebrating christmas, and anxiously awaiting my journey to Thailand and now here I am and my journey is coming to an end. It has been quite a ride, I have been so lucky to partake in so many wonderful experiences and learning opportunities. When I was preparing for this trip I was not sure what to expect nor what it would be like, but it has simply been everything I have hoped for. The new friendships I have made, and the memories that will last a lifetime. This entire journey has helped me to grow as a person, and given me the opportunity to step back and look at the whole picture, I have learned a lot about myself. So much has happened in these past weeks. One day I was riding an elephant and rafting down a river on bamboo wood and the next I was learning about the Grand Palace and Wat Po. Everything that we have done has been wonderful, and I cannot express enough how blessed I feel. Even when we were not attending lectures, the other activities we partook in were learning experiences, and great life-lessons. It is imposible to say what even my favorite part would be, and which city I enjoyed the most, they all are so different. They all have so much to offer, and there is always so much going on its like the cities never sleep. As a group we have done as much as we could to get out and see the cities, we went to the night bizarre, the markets, the temples, kao shan road and so much more, but there is still so much more this wonderful country of Thailand has to offer.

I am sad to be leaving this incredible place, and I hope that someday I can return. It is hard to express the thoughts I am having as I try to reflect everything I have done since we have been here. It is all so bittersweet. I am nervous to be going home, but ready. I am sad to leave, but miss my friends and family. I am not sure what to expect when I go home, to be leaving people that I have gotten so close to and spent everyday with these past weeks. It is gonig to be different, we all have found such strong unique friendships that if you had asked me 3 weeks ago about the group, I would of never thought I would develop such good friends so fast. The connections we all have made, and everyones different personalities have meshed so well. I believe everyone brought out the best of each other.

I keep thinking about the fact I am boarding the plane home in a few hours. This journey has been a great one, and I am excited for the way it will shape the rest of my journey and me when I return home.

Transportation

When I arrived in Thailand 3 weeks ago I had no idea how different the transportation would be. In a way things are very similar but yet very different. Yes there are cars, buses, subways,taxis, sky trains just like back in the states. However there is also tuk-tuks, motor-taxis, and truck taxis. The tuk-tuks are 3 wheeled mini cars almost. The driver rides in the front and there is a bench in a cart like area. Depending upon where you are and where you were going the tuk-tuk seemed to be the best choice except for the fact you can only fit about 3-4 people, 5 if your really feeling crazy. The truck taxis are trucks in which the bed has benches and a cover over you, those were the best way to get around in Chiang Mai, but they are not even really an option in Bangkok. The first night we got to Thailand we decided to put all 18 of us into one taxi-truck it was a lot of fun but it was something that we decided not to do again. When we arrived in Bangkok we were informed that riding on a motor-taxi was an option, and after all the fun I had riding around with the students I was determined to take a motor-taxi, even though it is very ill-advised due to the safety risks. The fact is you ride on the back of a motorcycle, with a total stranger, no helmet and your driving in the middle of cars simply because you can. Transportation in Thailand is crazy, there are cars everywhere and everyone that is driving needs to be ready and alert because everyone is traveling fast. We all would talk about how shocked we were that we did not see more accidents. Navigating and getting around in Thailand is fairly easy, and negotiating the price you're willing to pay usually works out in the end. At home I believe I am pretty good with directions and thought things would be no different here, I was able to handle myself in Chaing Mai and Chiang Rai but Bangkok was a whole different story. I decided to embark on a little journey to see my friend Faith, I took my map and figured it would be easy to take a tuk-tuk and thought that seemed liek the safest bet, however everyone kept telling me it was to far. I just kept walking down the sidewalk, deep down I was thinking come on Al just take the motor-taxi, but I was to nervous. I kept walking and walking then finally found myself at the sky-train station. I walked up to the counter, luckily had a picture of the address in Thai and English showed the cashier and asked which stop, she told me and I was on my way. The sky train part was easy, however after I still had no clue where I was. I walked down to the street, into a gas station they pointed me and I was on my way. One of the motor-taxi drivers walked up and offered me a ride I showed him the address he knew where to go. I thought to myself wow this is really happening and hoped on the back and away we were. As I was riding on the motorcycle I kept thinking to myself, oh my gosh this is insane, were traveling down the rode going a decent speed, I'm holding on for dear life and were weaving through traffic. I was simply praying I made it there. Nothing looked familiar to me and I was gettting a bit nervous when we finally stopped and we were in a dark street. I look over and see the sign Shanti Lodge. I was so happy, I had successfully navigated my way through Bangkok. The experience was insane, and my heart was pounding but I was extremely proud of myself.

The transportation in Thailand is crazy and unique, but in a way it is a lot of fun. I honestly think that the tuk-tuks and truck taxis should be an option back home, however the motor-taxi I think that may be out of the question.

The "beginning of a traveling girl" by Casey Churchill

We leave tonight. I cannot put into words on how these past 3 weeks have changed my life. The experiences, the laughs, the joy we all have shared to the new friends who have turned into the best of friends, have all made this an amazing experience. It has opened my eyes to know that there is so much more in this world than what I am used to in the state of Minnesota. Through my narrow minded eyes, I thought what we had in Minnesota was the best of the best, and that I would never move away from there. But there is so many people to meet, so many stories to be told and to be heard, and there are many cultures that we need to be experience before we can say we have lived. To fully live means to get out there, experience new things and not sit in the one city your used to; that one place that is familiar to you. Now am I saying that I am going to move away to Thailand or another country? No, because as I have stated before family is everything and I don't think I could live 7000 miles away from them. But what I am saying is that this is the beginning of a traveling girl. I am going to live my life to the fullest when I arrive back in the states. I am going to step outside of my comfort zone and after that, I will know that I have lived a full life. And a great life at that :)