In the children’s story Charlotte’s Web, the process of change
was explained by the spider languishing. Our time as Global Volunteers in Crete
has now been languishing, too. The tourist shops in Amadoura have been closing,
the hotels have been closing, the restaurants and bars have been closing, and
the numerous car rental stores have as well. Actually, our special hotel will
also soon be closing, too. As our time here closes, it is a time to reflect on
“who we are and why we are here,” as stated with a British accent to us each
morning by our fearless leader, Sam.
Our Global Volunteer goals have been both personal and team oriented. We
certainly have expanded our horizons by utilizing car, bus, and walking
opportunities to explore not only our local area, but also other areas of this
amazing county. Our personal goals have been as diverse as Lynn enjoying
finding early morning coffee shops and Betty and Perry driving to small
villages and shopping for shoes for their granddaughters. Our insights have
been impacted by the precious experiences of working with an amazing master
teacher, Martina, along with the children and teens enrolled in her school. One
insight we have gleaned is clear, children and teens who learn English can have
expanded future opportunities.
In two short weeks we certainly realize we have not changed the world or
the country of Greece. However, we can
certainly smile and share with our families, friends, and even strangers in the
future that our lives as Global Volunteers have been changed about this big
world, this beautiful country, and the wonderful Cretan people. And, just
possibly, some Cretan children and their families will have some positive
memories of three Americans who came to Crete as Global Volunteers to teach
English.
Tootles!
Message of the Day:“There is no recipe to be a great teacher -
that is what is unique about them.” - Robert Sternberg