Past issues aside, being back in one’s hometown brings with it a sense of belonging. Whether its something in the air, or just the familiar street signs, there is something reassuring about being in the town where one grew up in.
After having travelled the countryside, I find myself taking new appreciation for the places I have been. “The Return” is an archetype in itself. Whether its the biblical reference to the prodigal son, or any of the myriad of examples in our literature, the thought brings simultaneous anxiety and comfort…sweet and sour. Cobwebs brushed aside, the memories resurface, and one takes a breath and moves forward…
While I look fondly upon my high school years, the thought of going back into the classroom had me just a little bit apprehensive. A few weeks ago in March I was invited by an old friend to see what the teaching world was like. Luke Fritz was my high school football teammate and co-leader of a young men’s Bible study back in the days of yesteryear (all the way back to 2004! [haha i know, im not that old yet])
Me and Luke in our days @ Wilson HS in Portland, OR (I’m #15, he wears #64)
Brought as a special guest speaker to a Westview High’s freshman global studies class, I sat in on a vibrant discussion of current events as well as the the student’s homework, they had recently finished reporting on various countries in Africa. I had even spoken to the kids via phone-conference while I was still in Virginia, so many of them were ecstatic to see me live and in-person. The kids enthusiasm was great, we got to speaking about how I planned my trip, and how I’ve found that a bicycle is truly the best form of transport in the world.
Anyways, I loved speaking to the kids about my experience, also, seeing how my buddy Luke has been able to infuse social justice into the classroom. The kids also asked about
and my plans to go to Rwanda. I was impressed by their knowledge of Rwandan history. It was great to see young minds committed to understanding more of the world around them.
Departing December 2, 2008
Arrival: January 20, 2009
on Apr 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
The feelings of nostalgia, especially those related to going back to the town you grew up in, are very special. I grew up in L.A. and although I live in Pasadena, which isn’t too far away, I always love revisiting my old neighborhood near Dorsey High School.
It’s even more exciting as I take my three kids to the house I lived in on the street where I grew up.
Glad you made it back to California safely.