Impressions of America

On Friday afternoon, I was busy with my American studies class, doing what most teachers do on a Friday afternoon, trying to keep the kids attention.  Meanwhile, across the ocean, one of the most horrific events in our recent history was happening in another classroom.  I was busy wrapping up a great term with my American studies class.  As it was the last class for this group of students in my American studies class, a class that I will repeat for two more terms, I wanted to get the kid's opinions on America and the lessons I had taught.  The pupils did not have to put their names on the surveys, so I believe they all felt comfortable to share their thoughts and feelings.

I was very pleased with the results of the survey.  They seemed to enjoy many of the lessons while also learning about my home country.  Several also gave great suggestions to add to the class next term.  I was really pleased with how many of them said that their views on America had changed.  Many of the pupils, for very understandable reasons, have ideas of America based solely on the TV shows or movies that they watch.

I'm very pleased one of the things this child learned was that "Helen Keller was an immensely incredible woman."  I couldn't state it better myself!

I'm glad they learned there is more to American than casinos, massive food, surfers and baseball.

"At fist I thought all Americans were puffy (pudgy)."

If nothing else, I'm thrilled they learned that "There's more to America than just casinos, fat people, drugs, sea surfers and the rest of it."

The dreadful news that rocked our country shook the rest of the world as well.  News of the events of last Friday have been covered quite extensively here.  I must admit that I am thankful that none of my kids have asked me about Sandy Hook.  I know, I should take every opportunity to share with my kids about my home country, but I just don't know how to handle this issue.  Like everyone else, I am heartbroken and angry.  

One of the most common questions I receive about America, from adults and kids alike is about guns.  "So, in America, does everyone walk around with guns?"  This question came to me since day one, not since Friday.  They have an idea of America where guns are as common as cell phones.  I always sort of laughed it off and said of course not.  But after the events that happened on Friday and the facts and figures that are coming out, I'm not really sure how to respond.  In the United Kingdom, there are about 7 privately owned guns for every 100 people.  In the US, there are about 89 for every 100 people.  Yes, that's almost 100%.  Was their question all that absurd?

I know that that right to bear arms was set up partly because the British had not allowed the colonists to have weapons, in large part to control them.  I know that hunting, especially in the south, is a common past-time, and in some areas almost a necessity.  I know that making guns illegal won't make them disappear.  I'm not sure what the answer is, but I hope the leaders of our country have some better ideas.  Obviously what is in place now is not working.  

The small town of Sandy Hook has touched the hearts of millions around the world.  The PTO at my home school sponsored a candle light vigil and my host school had a moment of silence during assembly, all in remembrance of those children who were taken from this earth much too early.

As always though, it is in these moments of darkness that the light seems to shine the brightest.  To borrow a quote from the wise Mr. Rogers, „“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." To this day, especially in times of "disaster," I remember my mother's words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world.”  

With all of the horror stories that continue to seep out about last Friday's events, so too have the beautiful stories of heroism.  Listen for those, bring light to those stories, for it is in sharing these stories of hope and love that we may overcome the evil that threatens to enter our lives.