Diversity - Everyone is a Foreigner!

The Ethnology Museum in Hanoi is a fascinating place to spend time with students. Did you know that Vietnam is comprised of 54 different ethnic people groups? (And they call me a foreigner!)

This past weekend I joined with the other "foreign teachers" at the DAV as we mingled with students from the English Clubs in 3 local universities, including our own. It was a beautiful morning for exploring the outdoor exhibit of typical village structures. And I must admit, it brought out the child in us, as well as the students, when we climbed stairs and peeked out windows - like playing in a jungle gym.

One of the other schools has no native English speaking teachers, so those students flocked to us for the chance to practice English. It gives me a joy I can't easily describe, to be with these eager young people. Their smiles come quickly and often; it makes you want to give them your best. It compels you to show them the Father's best!

Though they often look like high school kids, these are university students, preparing to be the next generation of leaders. They have hopes and dreams, but not always optimism. Keep them in your thoughts and ask that they would be filled with joy unspeakable, and power to make those dreams a reality.

 

Look at these faces and give thanks for them. Heaven rejoices over such as these!

The Fortune Teller said "Thursday"...

...so that was the obviously the best day to get married.

This week one of my colleagues tied the knot. The rest of the English Dept. faculty was invited to a luncheon reception, so we rummaged through our "closets", found something appropriate to wear, and waited for the taxi in front of our school.

It isn't often that we get all dressed up here, and thankfully the weather was pleasant. We were full of anticipation to attend our first wedding in Hanoi.



It was a grand affair. About 300-350 guests filled the banquet room of the Government Guest House. Conspicuous among the faces were the three foreign teachers and one spouse.

The traditional cash gifts were all deposited in a box as we entered the hall and were led to our seats. People were coming and going the whole time since the tradition is to stay for a good meal, do a little chatting, and then leave so new guests can refill the room. The bride and groom roamed around with his father, greeting everyone. They stopped at our table and we were given a warm welcome as every eye looked our way.

We enjoyed some of the best Vietnamese cuisine we've had, and then it was time to go. After all, I had a class to teach in an hour!

On the way out we posed for a few photos with the happy couple. 

Congratulations to the Happy Couple!