favorite things: ESOL class

I have had the true privilege of being involved with ESOL programs for the past two years (English for Speakers of Other Languages) - which simply means that once a week I spend a couple of hours with some of my neighbors who are trying to learn and improve their English abilities.  Tonight was the first class for the new semester after a break for the summer and it was fantastic.  Five minutes in and I was reminded of why these classes are a highlight of my week.

We started with simple introductions: your name, your home country, something you miss from home, and something you like about living in the US.  Things the students miss from their countries?  Food was definitely on the list, but most repeated were members of their immediate families and their good friends.  Wow.  It's incredible that - for a number of reasons - they have chosen separation from their loved ones in order to pursue things that aren't as readily available in their home nations.  Things they said they enjoy most about the US?  Freedom, security/safety, people from many cultures, and the opportunities available here. 

Such a good reality check for me.  There is so much about living in the US and being an American that is so "default" that I don't even think about the implications that often.  I don't have to worry about my security, my freedoms are protected, I didn't have to leave my home country in order to pursue opportunities for the future.  [Contrary to what my family might think, going north of the Mason/Dixon line doesn't equal another country :-) ]  I was reminded of how truly blessed I am - and challenged to think about how I am using what I've been entrusted with.

We laughed a lot (a necessity when learning English or any language!) and I am already looking forward to next Monday!  And I am praying that as we practice English, there will be opportunities to talk about the One who created culture and language . . .