I have learned so much here from my students, fellow teachers and the villagers. My first lesson in this exotic land was, “mai pen rai” which may be interpreted, don’t rush time, don’t sweat the small stuff, don’t worry, be happy, or smile even when in pain.

When I decided to come to Thailand it was my intention to share what I had with the Thai people. I did share, but they shared more with me. I came to be a blessing, but I was blessed more. I came to share my faith, but their lives are a testimony of living faith. I came to share a smile, but when I smiled, my smile stopped at the corners of my lips, while their smiles reached all the way to their ears and into their eyes. I came to teach, but they taught me.

I thank the staff for loving me and adopting me into their hearts and families. I never thought I could enjoy teaching as much as I did with the students of Chiang Mai Adventist Academy (CAA). I shall always remember them.

To those of you who are thinking of serving as a volunteer—go ahead, take the plunge. I promise, you will never regret it. Loneliness, homesickness, culture shock ... they exist, and I sometimes did not know how to deal with them. However, I learned that God is ALWAYS with me. To those of you who prayed for me, thank you very much. To my home church—East New York SDA, and the members of the Mount of Olives Church, thanks for everything. May God continue to bless you richly. “The Savior is the flavor”—continue to spice up your little corner. I will come back.

By: Simone English