Hello from Kempie, Semester Co-Director
I’m thrilled to be a part of what will surely prove to be an amazing, challenging, and life-changing experience for you all! My life journey began much as yours has. I took a leap –decided there was something beyond (what I did not know)– and landed halfway across the world into something exotic, strange, frightening at times, but nonetheless exhilarating.
After spending time in India this spring you may come to experience what I feel constantly: the urge to return. It’s such a vast and diverse country. I feel like I only get a glimpse each time, but these glimpses are always challenging and enlightening! I find so many aspects of Indian culture fascinating. In fact to even mention “Indian culture” as an entity is problematic because there are so many different Indian experiences. So as we embark on this journey together, I invite you as well as myself to heighten our awareness of the complexities, the intricacies, beauty, and harsh realities of what we will encounter.
While I was studying indigenous perspective in Mexico a respected teacher of mine, Gustavo Esteva, said so gracefully, we must learn to “host the otherness of the other.” Exposure and interaction breeds understanding and acceptance. As we all open up to the worlds beyond our comfort zones, we invite the experience of the unknown. This process triggers a curiosity that will lead us further…
Together we will shape and transform this program into our realities…realities we will never leave behind…realities that will challenge us and inevitably demand growth. That’s why I have joined Global LAB and I imagine that’s at least a part of the reason that you have chosen to take this leap with me. It will be an unforgettable one!
I am honored to take on the responsibility of being your guide, leader, and friend through this incredible adventure! As we rapidly approach our departure date, please feel free to contact me at 704.905.5362 or kempie@global-lab.org with any last minute questions or concerns. I cannot wait to meet you all in person!
Kempie