I arrived at the EST school in mid-December. Although it's usually warm and sunny in the daytime, the temperatures reach close to zero at night. If I had realized the conditions - no hot water, no heat, and that we shower and do laundry at the fresh water spring a few minutes walk away - I probably would not have come. And that would have been unfortunate for me, as already this is proving to be one of the most rewarding experiences I've had in a long time. I'd been interested in coming to India, learning about the real Tibetan situation, and had been thinking about teaching English as a second language. This position sounded perfect!

The students and Lugyal are very helpful, still asking me if there's anything they can do to make me more comfortable. I have a private room, the blankets are warm, the food is freshly prepared and excellent, and the atmosphere is of one big happy family. The students are the most amazing part. They work together, help each other, and treat each other and us with respect. They're motivated, they do their homework and chores, and truly appreciate the opportunity to be here. They seem to be singing, laughing, joking and smiling from morning to night. Most of us could learn something from their positive attitude.

We shared some of our Christmas traditions with them, for their first Christmas, and they surprised us with a decorated tree. They were extremely

patient in trying to teach me some of their Tibetan dances.

The students ask me hard questions, like what have been the biggest difficulties in my life and what I did to get through them, what my purpose in life is, and more. I try my best to answer honestly. They share their stories with me. When I hear of the challenges they've had in their short lives, my respect for them deepens. As much as I am a teacher, I'm a student as well. I'm beginning to understand the meaning of "Free Tibet".

I'll always remember my time in this special school with these students. It is a privilege to be here, and the experience has made me even more grateful for the life I have.

By Leanne