DAY 2 - REFLECTION

Today wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. (phew!) When I was introduced, I came out and performed a short rope routine before starting that days session. I kinda froze for awhile after I performed. But I really need to thank God that I was able to overcome my fear. Strangely, after I did my welcome speech and asked for their kind understanding as I hardly speak Chinese back home… somehow everything went much better, as though a great burden was lifted from my shoulders. Words seemed to roll off the tip of my tongue.

That's me performing the mind reading act in chinese!! I'm still in shock. ;)

Actually, teaching the Liaoning university students was a lot of fun. I realize that magic transcends all languages. They really seemed to dig learning magic. But most importantly, teaching them magic was easy cos’ I had a great team behind me helping me all the way. Daniel Gan, our other Project SMILE trainer and magic enthusiast, was standing on stage with me the entire time just in case I got stuck and needed some assistance. Also, our volunteers were spread out, 2 to a group to help facilitate the university students learning. Check out how serious they all look during their debrief session. They really made my job a breeze!

After a 3 hour class, I was seriously tired and had a splitting headache. I had NEVER spoken as much Chinese as I did in that one session. It was a major overload of Chinese for me. Though tiring, I also had an immense sense of satisfaction. One of my goals this year was to proficient in Chinese, so as to help my dad teach magic in China. And even though this does not make me an expert in Chinese, it has helped me start this process of reaching my goal.

“A goal is a dream with a deadline.”