We’re all moving on and (hopefully) moving forward. Let’s make the most of it.
Well everyone, this is it for us! We get to chat one more time on Skype, but this is the last update of mine through Reach the World you’ll be able to read. I’ve really enjoyed sharing my journey with you. I hope you’ve all enjoyed following my journey. I hope all of you will want to have journeys of your own – go out, go to college, visit another country, learn a new language! You are all capable of the best.
When I was younger, it was hard to believe that I was capable of the best. I was really scared of failing and people thinking I wasn’t good enough. Honestly I’m still scared of that sometimes now, but I keep trying, and I’m happy when I work hard.
When I first came to China, I was really frustrated with not being able to communicate with people. I could barely understand a thing anyone said to me! I felt like I couldn’t take care of Rachael and myself, and that scared me. I knew I had to work really hard though, and I knew that I could do that part. I didn’t know if I would ever be so good at speaking Chinese that I would be happy and not scared, but I did know that I had to try.
Today, I am glad to report, we just introduced Mama and Baba to the new student who is going to stay with them after us. When we first came to China, a previous student renter had to translate for us because we couldn’t understand enough to work things out ourselves. Now, just a few months later, we had to be there to translate for the new student, because he couldn’t understand enough to work things out for himself. The situation came full circle!
Not just at home have things improved. Recently I have been able to take care of every need we have. I chat and laugh with the Chinese people, in their language. They tell me all the time how good my pronunciation is (I worked especially hard on that). I’m so proud that, even though I was scared, I decided to work really hard toward a goal I had, and I accomplished it.
Again, I’m so grateful for the opportunity I had to share my time and experiences with you. I’d like to say a big “thank you” to your teacher, Ms. Jefferson, for her efforts to help us learn from each other, and the teams of volunteers who edited my content to make sure you and I made the best connection we could with each other. Thank you for an unforgettable experience! Now go make your own unforgettable experiences! 再见！(Zai Jian!)
Here is a link to a video for you. I hope you’re able to view it! https://www.dropbox.com/s/9hn2sov1as00sfk/Dallen%27s%20Last%20Video%20-%2024%20May%202013.wmv
