The semester is ending so classes were more relaxed than normal this week (and that's saying something). I see each class just once a week so the goodbyes began on Monday. My co-teacher Milton announced at the end of the classes that it would be my last day and each class president spoke on behalf of the students. I also thanked them for their interest, participation and energy also telling them how much I learned in the high school.
From the first month of classes the 1B course was my favorite. The freshmen were well-behaved, yet so fun. Their class on Tuesday morning got me choked up as they were the first class I met and taught in June. Already labeled as the sentimental gringa or llorona (crybaby), I told them how much they meant to me and hugged them all. To my surprise, they organized a goodbye 'cheers' with Fanta on Wednesday afternoon.
Thursday morning the first two periods of classes were normal. The third period of the morning I do not have class but Milton asked me to stick around. Not that they need much of an excuse to cancel classes normally, I was honored to find out that it was for my 'despedida' or send-off with the staff. Nelson prepared homemade churrascos and vino at 11:30am was considered appropriate. José Luis was elected to present my gift from all of my colleagues. Romina, the art teacher and somebody I grew very close to, hand crafted beautiful silver earrings in a traditional Mapuche design. With tear filled speech I managed to tell them how much I appreciate them and they told me I was the favorite of the four previous volunteers.
Friday night, I went to watch the boys play fútbol one last time. It was an intense game with more than a bit of name calling by players and spectators alike. Saturday morning José Luis, Elias, Pipé and I went to Temuco for a birthday party. In the evening we met up with Romina, Paula and Sergio at La Vida for a Terremoto or two. Unintentionally making our way to the karaoke bar, The Boss, where I celebrated my 22nd birthday, ultimately finding ourselves dancing at XS, the casino discotheque until the early hours of the morning.
Sunday afternoon all of the family came over for my farewell asado of Cordero. It was an emotional goodbye with Marina, Tatiana's aunt, who I grew very close to. We discussed what a beautiful experience it has been for everyone. That evening was emotional saying my goodbyes to José Luis's siblings.
Monday morning we shared desayuno of sopapillas one last time and tearfully sent Antonia off to school. She texted me the whole way to school. Finally Juan loaded my enormous suitcase and with Tatiana we went to the bus terminal. José Luis met us there and about 10 minutes later my bus turned the corner. Tìa Vero, JL's mom jumped on the bus to bid me farewell. I got off for one more hug, only once. The young bus attendant tried to comfort me asking me why I don't just stay in Chile. That along with the sappy music did not help matters and I accepted looking like the gringa loca for the first hour of the trip. I have felt so much love here and have no doubt I will be returning someday.
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