I have to keep reminding myself that I am the Lucky One. Or I guess "a" lucky one would be more appropriate, as I know that there are other people around who also consider themselves pretty damn lucky.
I don't know where to start, but, for a social studies teacher, micro to macro seems to make the most sense. I suppose you could say this post is a response to my lesson plan for this week -- "the Generation Gap" supplemented with a little "How do we show our parents we love and appreciate them?" discussion in observance of Mother's Day, which believe or not, is upon us.
How could it possibly be May already?
Lucky. Micro. I have a great family. I really don't like to brag, but my unique family structure (both immediate and extended) is something I ponder on a daily basis, if not because students are asking me questions about my life in the U.S., then it is because I am just thinking about missing them. I try to explain my family/hometown (because they are essentially one in the same) to people I meet (both Chinese and other foreigners) and usually people think I am making it all up. All I can do is offer that they come and visit when I return, so they can see it (and meet all the characters) for themselves.
My students often talk to me about the pressure they face, mainly from their parents, who want them to study hard so they can get a better job. They ask me how I deal with pressure from my parents, to which I have to admit that my experience is really different from theirs. Sure, my parents want me to be successful, but I think they would probably put happiness above money. Right, Mom?
Money is something my students also talk a lot about, as they see it as the golden opportunity for their future, which includes taking care of their parents and their own family.
At this point in the conversation, I am again forced to recognize my fortune. Mainly in the form of opportunities. Americans really do have so many opportunities! The very fact that I can take 2 years out of my career-earning years and pick up and move to China. This is something most of my students can only dream of doing.
So, even though I am going to miss seeing my crazy family on yet another holiday (and not bake my mom a Lemon Supreme Pie), I realize it is a minimal sacrifice. I will soon again be eating Lemon Pie in Albertville, and I should try to focus more on the opportunities I have in China.
Happy Mother's Day!
