Author: Joshua Gorenflo

Travel has the tendency to expose and introduce us to some of our worst fears. Or is it that travel has the incredible ability to grant us any number of opportunities for courage? Easing travel nerves may simply be a matter of perspective, of trust, and of knowing our true identity.

Travel makes life look attractive. She’s a seductress who whispers all kinds of promises, each tinged with truth. Those of us who have followed her can tell you, the reality seldom consist with what the imaginings tease. Not all for ill, either. Whatever she may be, travel is also an invaluable teacher. Though she doesn’t give her secrets away easily. For that, you must first buy in. Because there are things I simply didn’t know until I left home.

This installment in our Grammar Tense series helps you master the Simple Past Tense so you can legitimately dwell in the past.Get it? (Simple Present) Got it. (Simple Past) Good. (Simply) Here’s all you need to know in teaching the Simple Past Tense.

The way I see it, if you’re going to work, if you get to choose, why not make it something you can enjoy, at least to some degree. Something that will challenge and excite and provide new opportunities. Something outside the conventions set by those for whom work is a dirty word. Something exotic, maybe? Here’s why you should work abroad.

Life is made up of our choices. We cannot be all things for all people at all times in all places. We must choose what rings true to our destiny. Those choices will necessarily bring us close to some and further from others. For those who choose to travel, the physical distance can be overwhelming at times. Thankfully, there is something beautiful that happens in shared moments as well as shared absences. And there is a way to not only survive, but thrive in the long distances without friends and family.

It’s tempting to take what we know of the Middle Eastern part of the world and hold some skewed opinions or even pronounce certain judgments upon them without taking time to understand or visit the object of our scrutiny. Once we can learn to be aware of their cultural traditions, religious heritage, and the foundational value of respect they hold for each person, there is much about the U.A.E. which we can cherish for a lifetime. These are the cultural taboos to be aware of in the U.A.E.

When it comes time to stand in front of your students and go through the 12 verb tenses, it’s helpful to have some backing resources and friendly reminders as to what you’re trying to communicate. My job is to make your job that much easier. Luckily, teaching the Present Simple is, well, simple. And I’ve found some people who have put together some really marvelous resources for your benefit.

Words shape our world. It’s why you want to teach. You have a voice to speak into the lives of your students and they need to hear it. But don’t be fooled into thinking you can give what you don’t have. You need people continuously speaking into your life as well. Wiser people. These are the 10 books you should read before you teach abroad.