As I sit here on Saturday 12th May 2007,I am wondering why I didn't do this years ago.To set the scene,I festered at Heathrow Airport for more years than I care to remember,participating in a job that became mundane,stifling and about as exciting as a wet weekend in Bognor Regis.Some might call it the classic mid-life crisis,but fearing severe depression,or worse,contemplating ridiculous ideas,I decided to pack it all in,store my life away,and move to a country where help and support are needed.That country was Cambodia.
After settling in surprisingly easily,I now find myself after nearly six weeks,feeling more at ease and relaxed,than at any recent time in my life.
I have been teaching Cambodians to speak English,and they have amazed me with their desire to learn,and have broken many stereotypes that I,and many other foreigners,probably have.Having lived in London for many years,it's so refreshing to notice a distinct lack of cynicism,selfish attitudes and the"something for nothing"culture that presides in the UK.I really get a sense of living in a country that is growing and developing before my very eyes,and whilst not being naive enough to realise that there are many problems here,the overwhelming feeling is one of rebirth.(Hell-we even had Ronan Keating perform here last week,although some would say that was a step backwards)
In future I will write in more detail,and we will find out if my thoughts change with time.