Monday I used my bi-weekly, school-wide radio lesson to challenge all students to write a poem in English. I wasn't sure whether I'd get a single response, especially considering the reward: "The best ones," I noted on air, "would be read on the Friday broadcast."

But low and behold two of my students wrote poems, in English and submitted them today (Thursday) in time for me to put them on the air tomorrow. Here they are (unedited, including grammar/punctuation) as a preview.

"Mom"
by Park Jae Uk

I love my mom
She give birth to me
also she bring up me
So I being in Korea.
My mother is greatness.


"Everyday Prayer"
by Kim Chun Gon

In the morning.
just let me sleep sweetly
just be in the bed.
and just hot hear your cry.

In the after noon.
Please let me enjoy the meal.
Please give me such delicious side dishes.
and please do not make dissapointed with the some menu everyday.

In the evening.
Please let me take a rest
Please let me free of the final term.
and let me just go to bed.

The second grade students of Yeongnam Middle School and I went on a three day excursion across Korea. Here are a couple of the photos. You can see all the photos by clicking on this text.

Suffice to say, most Korean food is usually at least a bit salty and a lot spicy. Picture unidentified raw meat grilled in it's own juices and smothered in red-pepper paste. Now add a side of white rice and kimchi (fermented cabbage). Getting thirsty yet?

With all that in mind, I can't understand the way Koreans consume water. There is rarely if ever water initially provided at a meal. In many Korean restaurants, if you want it you've got to go fill your own cup from a water cooler. And the cups themselves are only good for a gulp and a half. Korean people rarely if ever actually drink water during the meal. They'll drink beer and soju (a somewhat syrupy spirit) but not even bring a water glass to the table.

At the end of the meal they'll toss back one glass of water almost like it's a shot.

In my school's special teacher lunch room, I am the only person ever drinking water during my meal. One English teacher even warned me once that older Korean people might be offended if they saw me drinking water at the table.

What gives? This can't be healthy, can it?