Moments in Dong Thap

There are letters that are difficult to write, not for lack of words, but rather because words themselves feel so inadequate to contain the immensity of what one wishes to express. And yet, in the strange way of the human heart, I feel compelled to try, to place on this page a shadow of the gratitude that fills me—a gratitude so profound, it borders on sorrow, for in each thank you there lies the knowledge that something dear has passed.

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Dong Thap University—ah, to think how those simple words now hold worlds for me. When I first arrived, with the bewilderment of one freshly torn from familiar comforts, it was you—the school heads, my supervisors, and resource teachers—who first extended a kindness that softened the edges of my uncertainties. Yes, I owe a debt to Mr. Truc, whose vision for the inbounds, cast an atmosphere of purpose and warmth over the entire experience. And, indeed, Ms. Loan and to all of the University heads, with such a discerning eye, offered me a unique insight into the program's heartbeat, sharing stories that made me understand the soul of the place.

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But most of all, it was the student buddies—so many of them, each with a unique kindness, patience, and enthusiasm—that left a mark on me that I will carry forever. I can still remember each smile, each guiding gesture, each moment when they helped me navigate the bustling campus, with its labyrinthine halls and hidden corners. They gave me more than directions; they offered friendship, warmth, and a sense of belonging in a place that was new and unfamiliar. How strange and beautiful it is to see that people you meet so briefly can leave such enduring impressions on your heart.

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There is a poetry in the way they made this place feel like home. It was their laughter, their stories, and their willingness to share a piece of their world with me that transformed my time there from a simple stay into a treasured memory. To each of them, I extend my deepest, most heartfelt thanks—not merely a superficial gratitude but a recognition that they have become a part of me. The lessons I learned, both in and outside the classroom, have changed me. I came as a visitor; I leave as one indelibly bound to this place and its people.

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To my Vietnamese friends—Janet, Harry, Cat, Anh, Davis, Diu, Phuc, Ken, Finndy, Tina, Tuyet Anh, Sofia, AG, Bao, Đạt, Andrew and others that I could not name—who welcomed me as if I were one of your own, who shared your country, your culture, and your lives, I thank you for the countless moments of kindness and generosity. You have shown me a friendship that transcends borders, and I will carry your names in my heart forever.

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And my gratitude reaches back to Mariano Marcos State University - College of Teacher Education, the institution that has shaped my path. Without the strength and support I received from my teachers, our dean—Dr. Aris Reynold V. Cajigal—and our brilliant former university president (now a CHED Commissioner)—Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis—, I would not have arrived at Dong Thap as open-hearted and prepared as I did. My Filipino friends—Rose, Sharmi, Lou,  Kim, Mel, Chen, Dexter, John, Robert, Nikko, Josef, Jobann, Ge-ar, Che, Ira, Samantha, Shekinah, Trexsia, Tita Glo, Ate Gecel, Rosa, Sharina, Jean, Shiela, Gladys, Amalia, Regilyn, Nathalie, Izzy, and Vinci—your encouragement and friendship sustained me, and you have no idea how much your words have strengthened me along this journey. To my Indonesian friends—Yogi, Hana, Naja, Nisa, Yolanda, Zahra, and Umi—who shared in this adventure with me, thank you for standing by my side and reminding me that we are never truly alone in new places, as long as we have each other.

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One day, I hope to return—not as a stranger but as one who belongs, if only in spirit. Until then, I carry each of you in my thoughts, as precious memories in the gallery of my mind.

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With all my heart,

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Karl