Learning to Listen with Heart: Reflections on International Volunteering in Northern Thailand

International Volunteering

Over nineteen days, I learned how to truly listen to the world with my heart.

“Teacher, will you come to our class again tomorrow?” asked a young student from northern Thailand, eyes filled with reluctant hope. In that moment, I felt something stir within me—my nose tingled as emotion welled up—and I realized just how deeply I had connected with these children during this journey.

From June 26 to July 14, 2024, I joined Yuan Ze University’s international volunteer team and served at rural schools in the Chiang Rai region of Thailand. For nearly a month, we interacted with local students, taught classes, and immersed ourselves in the community’s daily life. Through the challenges of teaching, I grew immensely, and in the children’s innocent smiles, I came to redefine the meaning of “happiness” and “giving.”

One of the biggest challenges of this trip was standing in front of a class of more than fifty students of varying ages. The language barrier initially made communication difficult, but body language, eye contact, and smiles quickly became our bridge. In class, some students were eager to participate, while others let their imaginations roam. Capturing their attention and keeping everyone in sync with the lesson was a kind of challenge I had never faced before. By the end of each day, my voice was often hoarse, but seeing the sparkle in their eyes as they asked if we would return instantly replaced all fatigue with warmth.

The interactions with high school students brought about a different kind of emotional resonance. They not only participated enthusiastically in our activities but also openly shared their lives and dreams. Many approached us after class to talk about their personal stories—some spoke of their families, others about their futures, and some just wanted to share their vision of the world. Each of them carried a unique story, and through them, I developed a deeper respect for education and a stronger sense of mission.

During the program, we coordinated daily with local teachers to plan lessons and prepare materials, constantly observing student responses and adjusting accordingly. From the initial chaos to eventually engaging with students naturally, I gradually realized that effective teaching isn’t about “telling” someone what to know, but “accompanying” them in the learning process.

Beyond the classroom, the experiences of daily life were equally unforgettable. We lived in simple dormitories, adapted to low water pressure and high temperatures, and learned to embrace the environment in the most natural way. These small details of daily life became the most genuine points of connection between us and the community.

What touched me the most was the children’s unreserved kindness and purity. Though they didn’t have much, they were always willing to share—be it a small bag of snacks, a handmade card, or a simple, gentle greeting. In those moments, I deeply understood that happiness isn’t about how much you own, but about connecting sincerely with others and being willing to give from the heart.

This journey wasn’t a one-way act of giving—it was a mutual exchange that lit up our lives. We may not have changed their future, but during this time, we shared growth and sincerity. I’m truly grateful for the fellow volunteers and teachers who walked this path with me. It was our teamwork and perseverance that made this journey so complete.

On the day we left, I told myself, “Even though I’m leaving this place, the children and their stories will always stay with me.” This international volunteer experience convinced me even more that the most meaningful moments in life aren’t always about achievements, but about the times when, through genuine giving, you light up others—and in doing so, light up yourself.

2025/04/18