Friday Photo: Surprises

Posted on July 20, 2012 by

I’ve spent a little over 24 hours in Indonesia, and have been surprised during many of them.  So many of the people speak English, and as we’ve been driving around the city I’ve been amazed at the number of signs and billboards advertising American products and companies.
In the 8th grade classroom today I was surprised when the students stood and greeted us, clad int heir formal school uniforms (including black Converse) when we walked to the door. 
 I was equally shocked when they began the class with a prayer and then told me how much they like Facebook and Twitter.
And even though I’ve experienced California traffic, nothing can compare to what I’ve seen in Jakarta.  While we plan our commutes and trips according to peak traffic hours, in Jakarta there is always bumper to motorbike traffic.  Looking out my window now, at 10 p.m., I see tail and headlights in a steady stream.  Amazingly, the cars are in great condition and don’t look like they ever run into each other, and adults hold babies on their laps as they whiz by on their motorcycle.  
I’m just soaking it all in, trying to understand the people, the customs and what is important to them.  And despite all the surprises of the last 24 hours, I’m starting to see that underneath it all we’re really all not that different.  
For more on my Indonesian adventure, click over to travels with mamawolfe!

Jennifer Wolfe

Jennifer Wolfe, a writer-teacher-mom, is dedicated to finding the extraordinary in the ordinary moments of life by thinking deeply, loving fiercely, and teaching audaciously. Jennifer is a Google Certified Educator, Hyperdoc fanatic, and a voracious reader. Read her stories on her blog, mamawolfe, and grab free copies of her teaching and parenting resources.

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Comments: 4

  • My Inner Chick

    July 21, 2012

    Ooo, Mama W.
    Sooo true.
    We are pretty much the same no matter where we live.. We all desire love, respect, and understanding.

    Learn Lots! X

    Reply
    • Jennifer Wolfe

      July 23, 2012

      You’re right…I learned a lot from the 10th graders I taught today. Despite our differences with their culture, the Indonesians are remarkably similar to us.

      Reply
  • brenda

    July 20, 2012

    Reminds me of my trip to India? Overwhelming is an understatement.

    Reply
    • Jennifer Wolfe

      July 23, 2012

      Brenda, I’ve never been to India, but there are definitely signs of Indonesia as a developing country, and the irony of American companies establishing themselves among the poorer parts of town. I’ve hit overwhelm a few times already!

      Reply
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