It was an especially difficult time in my life. Recently divorced with 4 children to take care of, no car, a hurt back, and making my way around using a cane, a back brace and a city bus.
I had made the decision to go to school and get trained to be a Respiratory Therapist. It meant being on the public dole for a while but, the only position I could do would have meant being on assistance for much, much longer.
I applied for as many grants as I could but wound up getting just one, for $250. It helped. Then I found out about a program at the college where I could work part time, and my schedule would be set around my classes.
I had never heard of the English for Speakers of Other Languages course before. Folks here in the U.S. From other countries could take E.S.O.L and get the help they needed to pass even the most basic English class. These were individuals who were willing to do things legally and proper.
My job was in the ESOL lab. Students would bring me their assignments and essays and I would help them to improve not only their English skills but their reading and writing as well.
People from all over the world came through the lab. While most were from Central and South America, I saw folks from Russia and the Middle East also. It was a challenge at times just to wade through all the different accents!
I remember one student in particular. She came from Central America and had written an essay for her class, and needed me to go over it with her. I would always read the piece first, then sit down with the student to discuss what needed work. It was a rewarding experience, to say the least.
Her essay mentioned how much she "loved the mole," that it was so good she "licked" her fingers. I felt a rush of sadness and sympathy course through my body.
My mind raced. Her family is so poor she's eating rodents- and LOVING it!
It was a few minutes before she was due back for our session so I discussed my distress with a co-worker.
After a nice chuckle she told me that "mole" was pronounced Mo-Lay and was a thick sauce, served over chicken, or sometimes enchiladas, and other dishes. Apparently it is a very popular sauce, available in different flavors, one of which is chocolate!
My student, an English for Speakers of Other Languages star pupil, and I, had a very productive tutoring session, enhanced by my new found relief. I never mentioned my brief but intense misunderstanding.
I know, lots of people eat lots of what I would call "weird" food, octopus and such, and really enjoy it. Even sushi seems a strange food choice to me, (I call it BAIT!). But a mole?
But, it was a wonderful experience. The students were great, and I was honored to help them. They seemed to look at me as if I held some sort of intelligence! But, I love words, and this job, though part time and temporary, gave me a chance to share that love with, literally, the world.
I was encouraged to stay on full time, but chose to move on with my plans to get an Associates Degree in Respiratory Therapy. The money is good, and I have job security even in this tough economy, but I often wonder if I made the wrong decision.
Maybe I'll have some mole and consider a career change.
I don't think you made the wrong decision, although there is a lot to be said for the moles and other 'delicacies'. Your opinion of sushi is right on: I remember taking a girl out to a sushi bar and after spending $60 I had a crazy urge to go fishing. Weird, I know.
Great article to start my day. Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you, Michael, for the confirmation. I have never dropped a sledge hammer on my bare foot to see how it feels, and I do not feel the need to see how sushi tastes.
Firstly, don't knock eating mole. With a little garlic, red pepper and a red wine it's outstanding--just kiddin--what a nice change of pace article--loved it.
You did a noble deed by teaching English to those who are interested in learning the English language, I applaud you! I came from a country where English is used as the medium of instruction in schools (Kindergarten to College) however, when I came to the U.S. I found that I could speak and write in English but my accent was a little bit off! but I eventually learned. Ken, thanks for sharing this well written article. Wishing you the best in achieving your goal to become a Respiratory Therapist.
I actually reached the goal of becoming a Respiratory Therapist about 14 years ago and now I am reaching for another. It was a great ride, but I'm tired of it.
I want to be involved in the world of words, instead of blood, death and gore.
How did you end up with ALL the kids?!youre a brave soul and i shall pray for your success and deliverance from hardship(eating moles is no easy task;theyre hard to catch and it takes many to make a sandwich as each is tiny as half a pinky)
Heheheh, great article... I'd have assumed she was referring to our underground friends as well, but now I've learned the truth from your article I quite fancy trying some chocolate mole :)
What a hoot, especially the 'sushi...I call it bait!' But I got the mole, right off the bat. Loved this read, many thanks and I appreciate hearing how you got to where you are.
» left by Brianna Popsickle (34 days 15 hours ago.)
The whole 'mole' thing was very funny Ken. But what really struck me about your article was the personal information you shared regarding your divorce and back injury, caring for four children, and going back to school. Remarkable! What an example for those reading who are being hit by layoffs and struggling to get by. You've given them hope! Well done! (and funny too) :)
You did a great job overall! The imagery is fantastic and your sentiments about what your learned come through nicely. Congratulations on being open to new experiences and on giving the students at the lab 100%. Best of luck on your career path, as always!
Your character is valuable. The way you did not mind sharing the teaching of English...To those that wanted to learn. I find when one wants to be taught something that I know, I never feel weary. Those learning are my payments.
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