Holidays in Korea!

Wow time is flying! I cant believe that its almost New Years! This time last year I was in practice running countless suicides and having two a days getting ready for the second half of the season! Now I am Half way around the world about to spend the new years in a New Country! Not to mention that I will have the opportunity to celebrate two New Years!! The Solar New Years in which WE celebrate back home in the states and also the Lunar New Year which is Jan 26th and 27th in which most Asian countries recognize as the New Year!

So Let me give you a quick quick quick update of what has happened in the past Week. I am going to type really fast so please excuse my grammar and all of that! Ok I was super excited about being in another country for Xmas bACk home Xmas for the past couple of years has always been a good time to relax take some time off of basketball..But there was always the thought of having to go back to practice so didn't get to enjoy like I really wanted to! But looking back at it now I miss it! Anyways Xmas eve me and my friends. Mike from chi town and joe from Australia via the states, and sue from Canada and states we all went to a famous place to shop called Dongdaemun at least I thought I was going shopping! Ok in my contract it says that if your payday falls on a holiday which is the 25th so xmas falled on my payday. You should receive your pay on the 24th! Ok So I was so amped to get paid..I get to the bank and my money is not there! So I could have gotten mad which I was Little but there wasn't any reason to get bent out of shape there was nothing NOTHING I could do! I checked on Xmas it wasn't there! then finally the 26th I called my co teacher and calmly asked her Why I wasn't paid. She told me that the lady in the office forgot?! lol haha hahhaha all you can do is laugh really lol....hahahha how do you forget to pay an employee! I tell you what One day I should not show up to school and say that I forgot however Two wrongs don't make a right...Long story short My money was put in my account that day resuming my Holiday! I WOULD not let that Major incident get in the way of me enjoying my Holiday!

Fast Forwarding to Xmas! Its funny to me how small the world is. A friend I went to college with is from Japan! Her family moved to Korea about a year ago! I got a call saying that she was in town for break! It was perfect timing it was good catching up with things going on back at home and at school and also seeing a familiar face was something I appreciated for the Holidays!!

I am still enjoying my time here trying to pick up on the language! Tomorrow I will go and have an exchange lesson with one of my friend and his co teacher. We will go and speak English in exchange for Korean lessons. It's a good way to learn about Korean Culture as well as share your own with Koreans that normally do not often get to speak English! IT WOrks out great for both parties!

Final Thoughts: TO live here in Korea you have to be able to go with the flow. Plans, itinerary , and things change on the drop of a Dime. In a sense you have to have patience, understanding, and a willingness to grow. IN MY EXPERIENCE AND I am not speaking for all NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHERS HERE! I am speaking for myself "In my experience here thats the biggest thing I would say that very few things are planned and at a drop of a call your whole day could go the other direction. However with that said! Korea is a great place to meet different people around the world! Experiencing a different culture and way of life and also a chance to take a break from the norm...All in all the GOOD def out weighs the BAD!!!! SO as I always say! Until next Post! Always Always Always! Remember lifes good!!!!!!!!!!!

Late Night Thoughts

What! A week. I had a great week this week. My school had an English FESTIVAL, had training in a part of Korea I haven't seen yet, Got a chance to kick it with my Homie MARIA AND JIN SUN after Maria's game in GUri, and Also met a mutual Friend. It was a great week. This week It's kind of crazy. My vacation starts I am still trying to figure out what I am going to do for my break. This week I think I am going to dedicate some more time and trying to learn Hongul. I have many Korean friends that know English alittle but not fluent enough to have in depth conversations. It's about 1:19 am in the morning I should be sleep but I just wanted to get my thoughts out while its fresh! Im loving Korea! I know time flys. I am trying to enjoy every moment each conversation and each meal. I know life's short and I want to live it to the fullest! I have ran into some that just bash Korea, the people, the food, and the lifestyle. Then my question is why are they here? Im CONFUSED lol sure things get complicated because of cultural differences and miscommunication but at the end of the day I am loving being immersed in the Korean Culture. I know very soon I will be back in the states not having to dry my clothes on the floor or turn a button on to turn the hot water on. So in this time I am going to enjoy myself through the good and the bad! Cause thats just what im doing loving my time here! peace

Koreans- Respectful & Gentle People

Ive been here for almost three months. People ask me how Koreans treat you. I usually respond by saying for the most part they will bend over backwards for you. Granted that everyone gets angry or is rude at some point. However respect is a huge thing in their culture. On two occasions I have been at the right place at the right time to catch rare footage to support my statement that Koreans are respectful and peaceful people here are some videos to support my statement lol

I was going into burger king thinking I was going to get a meal and get a taxi and head home. This guy decides to go behind the counter! DID YOU NOTICE HE reached and ate a french fry! and Ate It! LoL if this happened in the states what in the WORLD DO YOU THINK WOULD HAPPEN! THATS RIGHT HE IS BEHIND BARS FOR BEING INTOXICATED IN PUBLIC. Not here they just asked calmly not to do that and escorted him behind the counter this is support number 1!


hahahhaha these two guys are obviously drunk and fighting over who knows what! Lol the police come and calmly seperate the two! Once again what would have happened in the States? THATS RIGHT BOTH OF THEM KNUCKLE HEADS WOULD HAVE CAUGHT A CHARGE OR SOMETHING!!

Constructive Criticism

After coming back from a great weekend. The last thing I wanted to do was start off the week jaring off at the mouth with my Co teacher! As I stated before me and my co teacher get along fine off the field so to speak. Outside the classroom we are fine we talk and share are cultures with each other. However in the classroom we arent the greatest duo in education history lol. I think are main problems is communication. I keep telling here as we get to know each other and what we need to do we will be good. Anyways to make a long story short we had a spat this morning when disscusing the lesson. That spat opened up a can of worms of how I am not pulling my weight, sit at my desk, just walk around the classroom etc. Granted that is indeed what I do at times because she does not involve me in the lesson at all. So I just sit there. So therefore she does most of the lesson and I chime in from time to time when she asks me to do something and conduct the game. Well after our spat today it was all good. I was teaching the class myself! and she was there for discplinary actions and translating here and there!

This is how it should be! I should be teaching 70% and she should be teaching 30% before it was the other way around! Once she saw that the kid's were having fun! and were comfortable with me up there teaching she was at ease...I am a passionate person I do understand constructive criticism. Playing colliegate basketball has taught me that. Being able to take advice and learn from mistakes is very important in the work field or anything you do! My Co Teacher/ Boss told me the things she wants to see from me and thats what I am going to do.

I simply was being me during the lesson today and I believe that she saw the potential and the passion when I was teaching. This does give me hope for the future as I am still feeling my way around teaching! No one wants to feel unappreciated or that their doing a bad job! I just think our problem is communication and everyday we will get better at that...Until next time... Enjoy the photos below...And coming soon is VIDEO BLOGS FROM LUNCH, Health Club, Korean Cribs, and English Festival...Until next time I hope all is well and always always remember lifes good!

Dinner With Co Teachers/ Wedding Photos

Attention: Board with your Desk job, Just Graduated, Want to see the World, Lovers of Asia, and want TO travel on a free ticket. South Korea is for U!

I am the type of person I am going to give 100% or I am not going to do it all. If I am feeling something I am going to do it. If I have any doubt I will not go through with something. Also my friends always joke around and say I like to exaggerate some things but I don't think its exaggerating I think it's I'm passionate what I am doing and want to share with others. Yesterday, I was talking to an old friend catching up and expressed to her I was in Korea teaching English. I told her little bit about it and how it came about. So I figured I would make of post of those people that are interested. Once again I never know who is reading this blog I just post information and hope that it gets read more importantly its my way of giving back...

Teaching English in Korea
Requirements

Native English Speaker from- USA, NEW ZEALAND, GREAT BRIT IAN, SOUTH AFRICA, IRELAND, AUSTRALIA, and CANADA

Degree from any credited University

Documents you will need

The signed contract
Your original degree
Sealed university transcripts (unopened)
Copy of the Info Page in your Passport
4 color passport photos
A Signed copy of your resume with correct address and contact information
Criminal Record Check

MOST IMPORTANTLY HOW WILL IT BENEFIT YOU! (IMMA KEEP IT funky and real with You)

The Benefits

Round Trip Flight to and from Korea (I thought it was a joke! I did not come out of my pocket for my tickets. It was taking care of by my agent Teacheslkorea.com soon as I received my visa!) Before I knew it I was on a plane from DC- DETROIT-TOKYO-KOREA

Usually you will work M-F and work total amount of 22 hours. Which is about 4 classes a day (What they do not tell you is that you are at work from 8:30 to 4:30) However you are not working the whole day. School is out and kids go home around 1. So from 1- 430 its free time to do whatever you choose to within the school. In my time I email. Keep up with the site. Talk on skype. Watch videos. Try and learn Korean and talk to my other Co Workers.

Paid every month 2,000,000 yes 2 mill Won(It used to be about 1 to 1 but because of the economy it has gone done slightly but you can still save a good amount of money) sometimes more depending where your contract is.

Paid Vacation

20 Vacation DAYS

Health Insurance Coverage

AND THE MAIN REASON OR BIGGEST REASON I AM HERE FREEE HOUSING!!! (Yes, people free!!! the rent is free) back in the states living is your biggest expense eliminate that and you free up more disposable money to go towards something else.

Also benefits they dont list but that I am going to list!

Great people. meet people from all over the world. teaching is fun with the kids. always have money in your pocket. great public transportation. emerging yourself in another culture. communicating with someone who doesn't look and speak like you! All in all its a great Opportunity and I just want to share with others that are still not sure if they know what they want to do and want something different. Any questions don't hesitate to ask or email me at lyons.jered@gmail.com

Rock Papers Scissors: THE LAW

Back in the states. I thought this was just an innocent game that was created to pass time on the playground. Or decide little spats. LOL LOL HAHHA WELL not in KOREA! lol

The way I see it the simple game Rock Paper Scissors is the LAW and thats it! I have been here almost 3months and on several occasions have I seen major problems decided by this game. Your fate is left in the hands of a ROCk, Paper, and a Scissor...Personally speaking I would be pissed if I lost a bet or had to do something I didn't want to because of a game where there is a high chance of loosing. At my school Taebong Elementary I paid it no mind just laughing it off. However when I see grown men doing it thats where I realize it's not a game anymore lol its the LAW....

Cheezy PUTTING ON for his City. TOP 20 Ranking

#23 Corey Dorsey
Position: Guard/ForwardHeight:

6-5Weight: 193

Class: Senior

Hometown: Frederick, Md.

High School: St. Johns at Prospect Hall

Just because I am out here in Korea doesnt mean that I am not going to keep in contact or updated with people that I have played with in high school or college. Last year two of my teammates from high school Al Sowers (1,000+ point scorer in high school and in College @ USCG) and Corey Dorsey faced off in the Sweet 16.

This season Cheezy is starting right where he left off propeling Gettysburg to a top 20 ranking in DivisionIII keep doing your thing manye!!!!

Vacation: Thailand!

Its crazy to think that I got here on October 3, 2008 and that it is already December 9, 2008 almost 3 months Wow! The longest that I have been out of the country was in 2004 when I traveled to Tanzania with my Aunt and church family. My vacation time is as follows:

My Contract for PAID Vacation Days:

20 days for the year Weekends not included

Monday - Friday= 5days

20days=4weeks

2weeks in the Winter

2weeks in the Summer

For the past four years I have not had a proper WINTER Break. The past couple of years my break constituted of going home and relaxing even though I still had to go to the gym a couple of times for basketball. The break always ended early for me as I would drive back from Maryland to my school in VA for practice. The first year I will not have to do that and it feels GREAT! I miss it but it Feels Great!

With that being said never in my Wildest dreams. I know im beating a dead horse. Or preaching to the choir. Never did I think I would be living outside of the states yet alone planning a trip to THAILAND..For my vacation I figured instead of staying in Seoul. I thought I might not be around this part of the world again. SO I GOTTA "GET WHILE THE GETTING GOOD STRIKE WHILE THE IRONS HOT" I never knew it was so cheap to travel to Thailand. I will be able to splurge a tad. While still staying on target for what I am trying to accomplish! If anyone is reading this and has information about THAILAND or agency or a resort that they went to please email me at Lyons.jered@gmail.com... I hope that everyone is having a good start to the week...

Just My Thoughts

Im blessed to say the least! I can't stress it enough. I am 23 years old and have literally almost traveled around the world. One time when I was on the phone with my Mother she told "Son you are living and doing what I always wanted to do but couldnt. You and your Sister are my Eyes through the world" manye thats deep.

United Kingdom
Italy
France
Germany
Switzerland
Turkey
Greece
Ethiopia
Tanzania
South Korea

Sitting in the chair at my Elementary school in Korea @ Taebong Elementary school my sister asked me what im doing... I respond "Nothing much just looking at ticket prices for THAILAND"...man whats wrong with me I said it as if it was nothing. Like everyday people say yeah im get up and go to THAILAND for my vacation.



Im not going to lie sometimes I just get caught up in life I forget to give thanks to the one who has made all of this possible.GOD...Thats one thing I NEVER EVER WANT TO BE is Ungrateful..I always appreciate things people do for me whether it is big or small..Sometimes I feel I dont deserve it because my actions and words don't reflect that of Christ or what I believe...My College coach used to always say your either going to do the right thing or the wrong thing there is NO GRAY AREA."Integrity is being able to do the right thing when no one else is watching!" ....I have this feeling that I am supposed to share my experience I am supposed to give back to someone else in some form or fashion. I truly believe that people is my passion. I thoroughly enjoy communicating with people from different walks of life than my own...I guess what I am trying to say is that being here in Korea has opened my eyes...Before coming here I NEVER!!! AND QUOTE "NEVER" had a desire to go to an ASIAN COUNTRY until recently...Look at me now bowing when I SAY hello and almost Advanced Chopstick user...Until next post....

Eastern Mennonite University Basketball Program's

Eastern Mennonite University Royals located in Harrisonburg, Virgina
Participate in the ODAC

The Lady Royals are off to a great year! We are currently 6-0 and 2-0 in conference play. Everyone by the looks of it is contributing each game. Whether that is coming off the bench to give your team a spark or if your serving in a starting role...Keep the Job up. From time to time I am going to post updates with how my Alma Mata is doing!

MY SQUAAD!!! Yeah that's right I'm a fan!! We been in the dumps ever since I got to EMU. We had a great team my Freshmen year and we couldn't put it together...I am excited about this class. Last year I got a chance to play with them and I could tell that this group wanted to win...Sometimes in order to LEAD you have to FOLLOW. Last year we had the pieces to do some things but it was more important for the young fellas to get to the tournament be in the ATMOSPHERE get adjusted to playing there....Now a year later...The Squad has things rolling knocking of Va Wesleyan for the first time in I don't know how long. Almost five guys averaging double figures in. We are currently 5-2...Imma keep posting up dates on here but keep doing yalls thing "REACH FOR THE STARS IF YOU FALL YOU'LL LAND ON CLOUDS"

Free Time after Lessons

So normally how it works when we finish a lesson. My co teacher allows the kids to interact with me and ask me questions etc. Basically just chillin with me trying to get to know me a little better. It also is a good oppurtunity for me to try and learn some of the kids names. It is already Dec 5th and I already have faces down packed I know who the bad ones are I know who the smart ones are etc. However the learning their names is still tricky. No one wants to be pointed at "HEY U KID WITH THE RED HOODY" so I try my best to remember the kids names however with 1100 students in the school its just not going to happen...Anyways here is a video of a kid that has talent..He wants to be a B BOY when he grows up and that he loves beat boxing. I said "for real? you know what beat boxing is?" he said LISTEN..

SBBIW...Seoul Best Believe Is Westernized!

Touching D.WADE story to kick off December

Yaa IM Venting 4 alil

Imma just vent while its still fresh! I am sitting in my classroom right now and I am baffled at my Co teachers behavior. As I previously stated that this week was a huge week for me for I am being evaluated by my school and the board of education. To add salt on the wound it doesn't help that me or my co teacher has no experience teaching not to mention the language barrier. Anyways she is stressing today we showed the school are open class. On my behalf it went smooth for me. Of course it was rehearsed they made me rehearse it but it was still natural for me. However her on the other hand she was so nervous..She let her nervousness dictate her performance. That is one of the things athletics taught me.. All my life I have preformed in front of others. I won some I lost some.However I was never worried about who was watching or anything like that I just did my best. No different for teaching in my eyes. I am no teacher by any means! I love talking, I love kids, I know English, and I am enthusiastic about the material I am presenting...

Well you know what they say Birds of a feather flock together...Lol well she was starting to bring me down I just started to get in a fowl mood just because her whole attitude towards me went down because she did not do well and it didn't go according to how she thought it should have. Anyways I just had to vent for a moment because everyone wants to do good at their job no one wants go half hearted or not give your all...If I wouldn't give my all I wouldn't have came to KOREA. We have two days to fix and tweak this SIMPLE SIMPLE SIMPLE English lesson. Needless to say I will be glad when Friday is over. I hope everyone and anyone that is reading has a good day and rest of the week...Until then my friends. please please please if u have AN attitude at this moment of time. Please stop and pray and put some LATITUDE IN THAT ATTITUDE. Peace!

The Week Ahead

I am going to make this real short I have a busy week.

Tuesday- Practice for my open class. Pay day. Also budgeting for the month. Dinner with Sujin. Big mike. Joey and Kristin

Wedensday- Might go ball near Jamsil (The sight of the 1988 Olympics in Seoul) or might go to as basketball game with my friend JLEE

Thursaday- I will be in deep depression. No turkey! no mac and cheese! no gravy no collard greans. no biscuts. no cornbread. no cranberry sauce my brotha's favorite. Imma have to hit my man Bro Man up and listen to him talk about food that usually will help alittle...My taste buds know that TURKEY day is around the corner. I don't know how to explain to them that they won't be getting any Turkey this year lol! Its all good though.. If I don't go to someone's house out here I will be going to a place called December 12th where I go every thursday for free food. (the board of education here in Korea pays for korean teachers and english teachers to come together and converse over dinner) usually it turns out to be just foreigners catching up for the week.

Friday- Open Class. Have to knock it out...Imma just be me..Image is everything here. Imma pray about it and be me thats all I can do.

Saturday- My school is dragging me to some mountian...Hopefully I won't have a repeat with what happened in Turkey..WILL see though..AND 23!

Sunday- Practice @ Gangnam

p.s. - The week always goes fast. The weekend even faster. I am trying to take time slow and enjoy myself but it feels like someone is pressing the fast forward button. Soon I will be back in the states. Hopefully coaching somewhere..Until then a day @ a time. Urs truly

On the Way to Rec League Practice @ Gangnam

Practice @ Gangnam & X-BULLS Scrimage

Korean Cell Phone BiLL!

My first Bill came for my phone today. Now before I start to talk about how much it costs let me start by telling everyone about my previous cell phone usage in the states. Back home My cell phone a month was about 65-75 usd a month. This included 450min and 500 additional text sent and recieved! and free incoming calls and free after nine! If you go over your text I think its 10cents or something like that a message. Well back home I always sent about 1000 text maybe a month.

Things did not change here once getting my phone I picked up where I left off hahha I message everyone and all the time! By the end of the month I noticed that I had sent and recieved alot of messages and I am sure that I used all my alloted minutes....Plans arent like plans in the states although it is very similar. Here it is very inexspensive to text so everyone texts! I have 300 free minutes with free incoming calling and 100 additional free text messages! For this month I have not montiored my cell phone usage. If I needed to send a message or send a text I did just that withought thinking about it...Well my GRAND TOTAL FOR THE FIRST MONTH without regulating my cell phone came to! 32,000 Won lol which in American Dollars is about $22.00 I think I can manage that! lol well just wanted to give a post on how my first cell phone bill was. If you ever get the urge to get a calling card! holla at me 010-2250-2129...Until then as always remember lifes good!

First Time Eating SUSHI!!! to much wahabi sauce!!! My nose was on fire!

Nov 17th's Thoughts

Me and my homie Bonnie

Me and my co teachers. And my friend joe from Australia

Me and another co teacher at school. One out of 7 males that teach at the school

ALL MY VA Homies... I GOT LOVE FOR VA AND THE BURG! lol...Some more of my CO teachers Soo Jin and Kristin lol

It has been a minute since I have last posted! I apologize for not staying on top of my posts. When I first thought about coming out here I wanted to know everything! I would read blogs of people that were already out here! It sparked my interest as well as valuable information before making the ultimate step. None the less it keeps me sane and keeps my thoughts organized. I never know who is reading but as I always say its for my sanity. Excuse me for grammatical errors and literary devices. I just want to vibe out without worrying about all of that! So just follow me. Im gonna vibe out.

It has been almost two months since I first arrived here in South Korea. Time fly's doesnt it! I am still in that phase of excitement. No two days are alike like a snowflake. I am always on my toes. I could be walking to get something to eat in my city and get a phone call and be on the bus/train to Seoul to meet up with some friends! I wanted to get settled in before starting to really emerge myself in the language. I have picked up phrases and words here and there but nothing extensive. It is very easy to let a year go by without learning the language you can get by just fine by sticking to English and not even trying. However I am not one of those people I feel like if your in their country least respect them by trying to learn there language instead of always coming out speaking English. That is what I do. I greet them in korean and try to pronounce what I am trying to ask. Once that fails hahah i HAVE no choice but to go to English but the thing is im trying. The people here are extremly nice they will bend over backwards to help you in anyway they can. Lol funny story I was having a minor problem with my Internet and I called the company and told the guy i was having problems. By time i hung up the phone he was knocking at my door cheezin lol hahah I just laughed....The customer service is great out here im not even gonna lie like I said they will bend over backwards to make sure you get what you need!

It also has been tight getting to meet people from all over the world. I love it! I thrive on it really. First of all I like to talk actually I love to talk my favorite subject was Lunch due to all the socializing! Nah im kidding but for real. I love meeting people from all over the world and that is exactly what I have done....Here is the run down on the people that I have met thus far...Australians, South Africans, New Zealand, Canadians, And of course Americans. I often find myself laughing when my friend joe talks because things are named different in Australia for example

I call it a socket or outlet he calls it a POWERPOINT so when he said where is your PowerPoint lol I said its on the computer. I said I am going to Mcd's he says he is going MACKERS? lol i said what is that he said u know McDonald's...I say whats good...he says what up mate...I say good look when thanking someone he says chose mate....I say yeah this is "tight" or that joint is tight...he says man this is hectic....lol so in other words its always funny how even in the english language there are variations from place to place

Now even though I am having a great time out here in Korea Imma keep it real with things that irritate me that I have to get used to! Here is my 10 irritations in no order!

1. When it rains riding on the subway or bus! I would literally empty out my bank account and pay for a pocket of fresh air!

2. Smoke! people smoke everywhere here. It is almost as worse as Turkey! they smoke like chimnys over here.

3. My school planning social outings for me! Lol last week I came to school they said "jered on wedensday your gonna go to the movies and then to dinner ok? Is that asking me or telling me lol I mean i didnt mind going to watch 007 and dinner afterwards but its not so cool when its gonna be something I dont like to do! So ask me don't tell me!

4. Drying my clothes on the floor! No Dryer! Laundry is basically a day event lol. however dry cleaning here is rather cheap! so it evens out!

5. Pushing a button to turn on my hot water heater! America we just go in the shower and turn the hot water knob without thinking. In Korea I have to turn the heater on before taking a hot shower!

6. People coughing without covering their mouths!

7. KIMCHI!! - Sorry everyone says u will get used to it!! Not I. I will never like kimchi! So this is def on the list...For those of you that don't know what Kimchi is look it up!

8. Coins! lol haha I got so many coins the highest note out here is 10,000 Won which is like USD 10 dollar bill...Imagine in the states if that was our highest note!

9. IF you want to teach in Korea you have to be able to deal with change of plans!!! lol hahah man plans and things change here on the drop of a dime lol what you thought you were doing could vanish like a fart in the wind lol....gotta be able to adapt and roll with the flow this should actually be RANKED 1. lol

10. Taking my shoes off at school!!!! and having to walk around in sandals in the winter!!!
+ my school having the windows open!! the school is concrete the insulation is horrible they be stingy with the heat!!

SAD DAYS so Far and SOOn to come

Missing D's wedding
My DAD and Brotha's Bday
THANKSGIVING!
XMAS
SISTER BDAY
MOM BDAY
START OF EMU' BBALL SEASON WE 2-0 THO HOLLA BACK!
EMU GRADUATION
SENIOR NIGHT

I have a creative way at looking at things that made it possible for me to make this journey. First of all I love to travel so that played a factor into my decision into coming. Also I didnt feel like being married to a 9 to 5 behind a desk. I dont mind the hours and working hard. I just didnt want to feel like I had to go to work everyday to pay bills. I wanted to enjoy waking up every morning early and feel like I have accomplished something...For this job I feel that way. Every morning that I wake up and I get to school and see the kids cheezin saying "Helllo misster lyyyooon" It makes you feel important. Imma keep it real with everyone. Im not gonna front living out here. I kinda feel like a mini Rock star sort of. I go on the subway little kids wave and say hello. Parents nod and are obviously intrigued wondering what I am doing in Korea because clearly I am not in the military (Military guys are usually well always cleaned shaved and much bigger than I am. But the fresh shave and haircut give it away). When I go to lunch the kids scream and yell my name all wanting hand shakes and autographs in English cursive. It would be very easy for someone to come over here and think very highly of themselves and get big headed...However I vow never to get like that because Honestly everyday I put on my shoes my jacket and I head for the door to school Im being me! Im not changing for no being on this earth. Day in Day out im gonna be me! Take it or leave it. I love life. i DONT act or put on a facade. Some people say I joke to much or dont take things seriously well there is a time and place for everything. I believe some people travel abroad and try to make up this make believe life that they have back home and sometimes I can sense it sometimes I cant. When people ask me where I am from I say MARYLAND not DC...DC IS DC and Maryland is Maryland...some people back home have a severe case of this lol ! Yes we are close to DC but just cause you live near DC doesn't make you from there..Its not about where your from its about where your at!...I said all that to say...A year is a long time! However time does fly. Its kind of Bittersweet! Some say man Jered you could change in a year...yeah very true I could. Some ways I will because I am being exposed to a different lifestyle and culture but one thing for sure I will NEVER NEVER NEVER CHANGE THIS IS J EVERYDAY. until then remember folks....LIVE. LAUGH. LOVE......lifess gooodd holllllllllllllllaaaaaaaaaaaaa attttttttttttttt yaaaaaaaaaaa boiiiiiiiii

"As you stand as a monument to the One's that came Before"

Its Amazing to me how everything works out for the best. When I first decided to come to Korea I was supposed to leave shortly after I got back from my trip to Germany and Switzerland. My plan was to be gone by the time my lease ran out of my apartment back in Va. I was rushing trying to get things in order! It was chaos working 40hrs a week at a graphic design shop on top of taking two course trying to finish up my degree on schedule and on time. With the weight of 40hrs a week, school, trying to pack making sure things are in order, and most importantly spending time with my homies. To make a long story short my first contract did not go through and allowed more time with my family. Which worked out great! I got to spend the whole month with my MOM + DAD and most importantly my Grandmother. In that month I learned alot about her! I cooked for her! At times I was annoyed by her because she is older. But soon realized she can't help that she sometimes forgets her cain downstairs. Or picks her nose at the dinner table instead of going to the bathroom. It was more than that. I actually spent quality time with her. Watching the price is right and channel 9 the only DC statiton she watches, taking her to appointments. Asking her about how she felt about the elections. What she used to do when she was younger! What her favorite foods are. What foods she doesnt like! What does she like to do.

Well It just made me think of that when I took a picture of one of my favorite students Su Park is what I call her. At the beginning of the english festival in my city. Korea is huge on RESPECT FOR ELDERS. FAMILY is a huge part of everything they do. I asked her if she hangs out with her Grandfather alot SHE responds "Of ourse! I love my grandfather! he lives with me dont you live with your grandmother and grandfather" Wow....Im thankful I didnt leave when I did...as always always always...lifes good!

One Post about it & im done!

I feel the need to get on my blog and express my feelings the way I like. The one thing I do like about America is the freedom to choose your own religion, beliefs, and speech. Since this is my blog and I am not forcing it down anyones throat or writing on their walls and so forth...Those that know me...Know that I do not like to get involved with politics. I do keep up with what is going on in the world. It is always good to be informed however I have my issues with Goverment and so forth as a whole. However yesterday I did feel proud it was an unexplainable feeling! In my lifetime I have been through alot regarding Racism. I have been in situations that have hurt and often led me to the simple question of WHY? I believe that the media has tarnished the image of the African American Male. Now usually the people kids should look up to are their parents. For males their fathers! However it is a sad case that many of our African American Fathers are not around for whatever reason. Please please read carefully it is not about race. However having the most powerful looked at position in the World position held by a person of a different hue other than White speaks volume. Young males such as myself can now have a positive person to look up to...Not to imitate or agree with every word or every action. But to see that you can make a change and difference to those you come in contact every day!

That is what I am trying to do here in KOREA!!! That is why I wanted to come!!! When I WENT to Turkey & Greece in the summer of 07 in some parts I was the only black person those people have ever seen!!! They welcomed me as If I was there own!!! The same circumstance is how it is for the city that I am at in Korea. Yes, Koreans are up with the times! I HAVE everything here I had at home. However the city where I am at many have not had interaction with an African American! The school I work with from the princple to my co teachers to the kids! They make me feel nothing but welcomed and warm. In return I want to do the best job possible getting these kids to learn Englis. No two days are alike. Teaching is def a fullfilling I always knew it could be or would be. But not to this extent! Since I have been here I have been working with a group of 10 students on a english musical that we would preform in front of 30 different schools throughout my city. This was a big event. To watch them practice day after day and go out there and nail their performance I felt proud!!!

I am all over the map with my thoughts. But I just wanted to say. I am not a drug dealer. I am not a theif. I never went or plan to go to jail by Gods grace. I try to be upstanding. It's just me EVERYTHING IM NOT MADE ME EVERYTHING I AM....I just want to change lives in a positive way!!! but that is all for now!! until next time...Lifes good

Guri City! With my Homie Maria!

I truly love the game of basketball. There are certian things that I love doing. I love eating with good company. I enjoy and love to talk. And I love the game of basketball. Today was a Great day. Prob one of the best days since I got here! The weather was nice. I had my new camera by my side that I have wanted to get for awhile. I got to meet up with a good friend from back home Maria and go to her basketball game. There I met some of her closest friends that she has out here! One Karlyle who plays also in Yongin City and Chun In who is currently studying to come to the states. They were really chill and fun to kick it with. It was great to be in the Arena and in the atmosphere of basketball. After the game we went to get some food at OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE so you know I was happy I got some wings and fries I was pretty darn happy..Needless to say I enjoyed myself today and plan to attend as many games as I can throughtout the year...Until next time hope all is well and always always remember life's good!

Patience really did Win!

Today I went to school with a chip on my shoulder! To make a long story short. Over the weekend to add to the fact that I was not at the tightest event in the last couple years of my life. I overdrew my account. I went to the bank and thought I was taking out 40,000 won which is like 32 or 34 usd I took out 400,000won! thats right people! I was so mad lol haha all I could do was laugh. Standing there at the atm..I am thinkin I am taking out 40 dollars and i get 400 hundred. I was blown. Needless to say when I got to school on Monday and they started acting funny with my money I was really nervous! I have heard stories of people not getting paid for months or not at all...I knew this school was not like that but buisness is buisness you know? Make a long story short I didnt not go to Seoul today lol! why? because they paid me! Not only did they pay me but I got more than exspected becuase I was not teaching for the full time I have been here which was on OCT 3. So in the end. Patience won! No need to get frustrated or mad there is nothing you can do but still display understanding and communicating through your differences...Until next time Always always remember lifes good...

Since I got paid better believe Im getting a new Camera and we going to straight VIDEO BLOGS!!! THEY COMING SOOOOOOOONNNNNNNNN!!

Count your Blessings not your worries!

I could really get on here and vent lol...Everything is good but I still haven't gotten paid I should have been paid on the 25h lol it is almost the 28th lol...My co teacher is the only one I can communicate everyone else in the school. The adminstration does not speak english... Lol so in lamens terms I had to be really firm with them. I was not kidding I said that if my money is not in the account at a certian time by tomm..I will not come to school unless you pay me. I have been here for almost a month. It was all good just a week ago. I love the kids but Buisness is Buisness lol so I will keep you posted with what happens tomorrow. Will I have a free day in Seoul or will I be teaching? Taebong Elementary you decide! With all that said im still glad my man DESHAY AND RAQUEL TURNER!!! had a great wedding day!!!!!!!! always always lifes still good!

I thought that this video with everything that is going on in the world today. I believe that if we make change with the people we come in touch with everyday is what were called to do. Im not the most person that is in tune with politics I have sat back however in the past month or so watching and reading up with what is going on in our world today. One thing that I love about America is everyone can form and build their own opinions with out consequences at least for NOW! Until then I believe we are all the same! Watch the video and vibe out

Crew Love

Needless to say I miss the crew. The strip as we call it.
One night on the way home from our local walmart which is called homeplus me and Mike from Chicago saw a group of High school Korean boys playing basketball... Everyone knows I am not gonna pass up the oppurtunity to get one shot in. Lol one shot turned to two to three to four to five to taking my coat off. to six to seven to eight. to nine. to ten. to one game to two games. Lol about 45 min of cardio lol some of them were not bad. It was all in fun tho. If you look at each Korean kid in the picture all you see is smiling. Lol I asked if they were a crew and if they hang out all the time. They said yeah there all best freinds...Well shout outs to my crew and some of the people in my life! Gotta take that time out and reflect! As always always Lg Lifes good and shoutout to everyone the whole crew!

Update/ Story/ Way I see It

I promised as always if I have a spare moment I would write on my blog. Not sure if anyone reads lol. However it is good for me to get my thoughts out. It is Thursday already I can't believe it! This week me and my co-teacher, Mike and his co-teacher, and chung joo (a teacher that speaks english really well) drove us to a city called uijeongbu to the immigration office so that we could get our ARC (Alien Registration Card). Once getting that I can finally get a cell phone/Internet. All that know me know those two things are very important to me hahah. Anyways I will upload pictures soon to show everyone how westernized Korea is. Least through my eyes. Also everything that I say is through my eyes and how I view it. It might be from the mouth's of my co teachers so I take their word for it. For example how dangerous is the media! Very Dangerous I was talking with my teacher (Its really weird she has a family, with two daughters, husband and everything, however already it's like were friends even though she is older) anyhow. During xmas she has the choice of going to Australia, America, and Canada. She is going for some certification for her english program that she is in. She asked which one she should go to and of course I told her that I had not been to Australia or Canada so I could not speak for those two countries. However this is how the convo went!

Co Worker- Where should I go?
J- I havent been to Australia or Canada so I can't say. So I say if you have the chance go to America. Which state would you be in?
Co Worker--I think it would be in San Diego, California have you been there?
J- No my dad has and he say's its beautiful! I want to go to Cali one day. I think you should go there! the weather is great there!
Co Worker- I am not so sure will I get shot there?
J- Will you get shot?
Co Worker- Yes! I dont want to go to America because I afraid people will be unfriendly! and that I will get shot!
J- You would be fine those are just stereotypes. I am friendly aren't I?
Co Worker- laughs. Laughs. Yes you are very friendly I will think about it.

Media did that! We are portrayed as a RICH, and Mean Country. The whole world views us as beasts. Well the only way to break stereotypes is to be in the midst of the problem. This small conversation is why I am here! According to stereotypes I am supposed to be selling drugs, dead, or in Jail. I am not bragging but I am 22 year old Black Male! and have traveled to Almost every Continent in the world. I am blessed to say the least. Let's take some time out to break stereotypes they are harmful and dangerous. Im signing out. Urs Truly. AS always. Always LG lifes good

No Practice today

Every basketball player in America that played in college or currently play's knows what today is. Oct 15th is the national date where colleges can officially begin practice. Whether or not schools follow this rule that is unknown. Wow! I am across the globe teaching, studying, and learning about the Asian culture. I wanted to take time out and hope that EMU BASKETBALL WOMEN AND MEN have a good start to the preseason. I hope they have a great year and work hard. Much love

Berlin/ Seoul Tower

Man I can't believe months ago I was in berlin walking on the same grounds that so many walked ages before me. This past weekend I checked out the Seoul Tower where you can see all of Seoul. Wow! im blessed. I guess some times I feel I don't feel like I deserve to be so blessed. I really can't complain about much. With that said I am just trying to do right and enjoy and not take for granted the things I have in this life. I had alot of time to think when I was spacing out looking at Seoul that is home to 12million strong. What a sight. What can I say but dang Life's Good...

This is tight

Yo whats good everybody!

It has been awhile since I have got a chance to write on my blog. I Promise soon I will write in it every night or try to when I get the internet in my room.
It seems like it was yesterday I was in MD teaching myself how to play the piano and woke up and now teaching Korean Kid’s in South Korea lol.
So far I couldn’t have asked for a better situation. My school is phenomenal at making sure I have everything I need to make me feel comfortable and at home.
My principal is funny he doesn’t speak English every morning I go to his office and we have tea. I listen to him speak Korean he listens to me speak English. I think we just
Laughing at each other is basically what it is.. But I can tell that he is a good guy. He did tell me that he doesn’t want me speaking Korean in the school he says they already know that! He wants them
To learn English and to always speak it in the school. My DAY is as follows

8:40 9:00 am – Arrive to school and have tea with the administration ( they are fascinated with the color of my skin) very chill the tea in the morning is nice start to the day

9:00- 9:30am- Just basically at my desk chillin until the first period starts at 9:40. Soon that will be the time I get on my computer and email my parents and friends back home
We are 12 hours ahead so while my day is starting everyone back home is ending which is still weird.

9 40 – 12:00- teaching a period lasts like 45 or 40 min which is not bad. The school has like 1000 kids maybe 1200 kids in the school so throughout the week
Each class is allotted one period of English since there are so many students. It is hard to remember names as I want to but its nearly impossible. But as always you remember the ones that
Impact you and stick out the most. I have already found that student that will keep me going!

12:00- 12:45 is lunch that is provided by the school. Which is nice so I don’t have to spend as much on groceries but man lunch I struggle I really do. Wow lol will just leave it at that I think the other
Day we had MACKREL, rice, some soup wit seaweed in it I think it was seaweed soup lol, some corn type thing, and kimichi the national food of Korea. It was very spicy I would describe it
As spicy cole slaw hahah and aged

12:45 – 2:00 – last class of the day!


2:00 – 4:30- on the computer literally hahah if our lesson is already planned for the week. Me and my Co- teacher Yi jeon joo are just on the computers lol and talking her teaching
Me Korean and me teaching her English. Side note it is very hard to tell how old Korean women are because they look so young when they are very old. One teacher at my school
Told me to guess how old she was lol I said 20 she said she was married with one child and she was 33 lol hahahha

Overall I am having a great time I haven’t even got to see my two good friends that live here in Korea. Once I get accustomed to the bus and subway system I will travel to hang
Out with them often. I met a guy from chi town today he lives in my Apt building a real chill white guy that graduated at Bradley University. So it def good having someone around I can
Speak English too we have been walking around the city chillin. In two weeks we will meet other native English teachers at the public school orientations I Can’t wait for that…But other than
That I can’t complain one bit…until the next time always always remember

LG Life’s Good.

The Countdown

I slept with no problem last night. Actually I went to sleep earlier than I normally do. I wanted to write on here to get the pre thoughts out of the way. I feel great this morning I have alot to do today and I dont want to get behind on anything. When growing up watching other adults you pick up things as you grow that you like or seem to be efficent. I picked up from Jon's Mom the habit of writing everything down that needs to get done on a piece of paper lol. I know it sounds funny but Jon's mom would leave the house and there be like twenty things on the sheet of paper. When it is posted to the wall or the board you can never forget what you have to do...Well I did just that I wrote down everything that I need to get today. I will start soon after this blog. I will drive to shady grove catch the train to dc to pick up my passport with stamped visa. Go to best buy get the cheapest mp3. go to ross or marshalls get two pants two dress shirts. go to the barber shop one last time to get fresh. Back home to finally pack. Call verizon shut the phone down. Get on my addiction the internet one last time lol..watch the cosbys. and let the future take over...It is a crazy feeling im feeling today. I'm feeling like I am getting something done LIKE im going to make change. Well I just hope I do my best and do it with all my power...Until then remember always always

LG Lifes Good

Redskins on TOP Yes Sir!

It is a huge rivalary! ever since I was a kid growing up there was nothing like the Dallas vs Washington game. I thought we played a great game today. Going into the game I thought if we could limit barber and owens, not turn the ball over, and limit our penalties are chances were good. We limited our penalties, no turnovers, and contained two great potent offensive threats in Barber and Owens. Jason was very poised throughout the whole game. Now it is time to prepare for the eagles.

The New Look!!

Still Waiting

I am still waiting to make this vision that I clearly had so long ago into a reality. I am so close to having it full filled but am being tested with my patience. I am still waiting on my visa number to get here. In the mean time I have been running around MD/DC getting exams, physicals, and checkups all that good stuff. Went to the dentist got my cavities filled. When to the EYE Doc. Failed the tests. Now a brotha wears glasses now. Right now I am chillin at home watching out for GRANNY (which has been nice getting to know her little bit better) she is funny keeps me laughing. I do get worried sometimes because she is older and has to be watched more than the average but she is cool. I say all this to say there is a reason I am still home waiting. But hopefully Ill be departing soon. As always LG.
LIFE'S GOOD

Watch This! The joint is TighT

Anxious!

I find myself getting anxious! As the time draws near for my anticipated journey to SK. It is getting so close that I keep forgetting to pump my brakes and enjoy the down town that I am getting to have with my family. My mother always keeps reminding me of this passage. "do not be anxious about anything but bring everything to God" Thats what I gotta do. With that being said the weekend is here. Whatever is that you have going on for your weekend member not to be anxious for anything. As always. Be safe AND always remember LG. Lifes Good

Sept 11

"Did you ever notice life goes fast. So dont you worry about what you see it will pass. They all winners to me"- Jay

I love this SONG!! sTraight Fire!

The Watch Is SICK

For all you watch lovers! I love this watch. This is on my list of watches to get for 09'. It is a designer watched made by a japanese watch maker it is called TOKYO FLASH WATCHES the website is called http://tokyoflash.com

A watched Kettle Doesn't Boil

Well I am still at home waiting for my visa number to come. The anticipation is killing me. Everyday I am checking my email at weird time's of the night to see if it has arrived. Once I get my visa number it solidifies that I have been approved to work in SK. When I get the number I then go to the Korean consulate in DC pick up my visa and have my interview. Until then I am still waiting. waiting. waiting. They tell me all in due time. So for now all in due time friends, A watched kettle doesn't boil

J

LG (Life's Good)

This weekend has proved why I have nothing to really complain about. This Weekend at my home church was called Homecoming. Past members that have not been to the church in awhile came back to visit. Personally, I have not been to my home church in awhile so it was nice to see past friends and family. So I am taking time out to post that I really don't have much to complain about I have a great family and friends So I am posting that Life is Good. Take Advantage

Yours Truly

Jered

The New Journey

During the school year I had this idea that for my graduation gift to myself I would go on another trip to Germany and Switzerland . I did that had a great time met some wonderful people got a chance to travel around EUROPE. I got back and started working full time. To make a long story short I didn't feel that I was making an impact on life. I was working long hours to help a small company make thousands of dollars. No disrespect to the company. I wanted something more meaningful at the end of the day. By doing this I figure I would go somewhere that I have never been before and teach English. This leads me to my next journey South Korea. Once I get my papers straight I will be flying out to teach English for a year. I am going to miss all my friends and family for sure. However it is something that I really want to do and the best time for that is now while I am young. I am going to miss alot of events within a year including an event that is coming soon that I am sadly going to miss my best friend's wedding. This is one of the main reasons I made this blog so that friends and family can keep up with me! Until the next time fam. Signing off yours truly

Life

Life is full of ups and downs. It is something that we all must face it is inevitable part of life. Throughout the years I have been blessed despite my faults, trials, and circumstances. Recently I graduated from EASTERN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY which I am very proud of. Many people like to what I call front like they are not proud of their school. Well I am the type of person I am going to make the best situation wherever I am its just what I do. I plan to carry this attitude into the next stage of my life as well wherever I might be! This is just the introduction to my blog J.Lyons! my words for the day and currently my motto

"Don't get caught up in life. Slow down enjoy it each moment. It only comes once. Try and make a difference in someone Else's life. Take time to ask how someone Else's day went. Call that friend that you haven't spoken to in awhile."