E is for Everest: Reflections from Teaching English in Nepal: Go-Buckets

Two weeks ago when we were first introduced to the idea of a “go-bag” during an orientation session at the U.S. Embassy, we laughed at the thought of carting around a bag stuffed with an axe, crowbar, and other items necessary in the event of an earthquake. With our faces half covered by masks used to avoid breathing in the dust and pollution on the roads, lugging around these packages would only enhance the image of 9 bank robbers walking the streets of Kathmandu.

Virginia loves her new go-bucket!

As the safety and security briefing continued, our lecturer explained that the Kathmandu valley is situated over a fault line and that an earthquake would have devastating effects on the unstable building structures throughout the city. (On second thought, Mom and Dad, why don’t you skip to the next paragraph?) Due to the regularity of seismic movements in Nepal’s history, we’ve been told that Nepal is “overdue for a big one.” This could mean anytime in the next 5 days or 50 years. I’m banking on the fact that Mother Nature also operates on Nepali time!

Rachel, too!

At the insistence of the embassy, we’ve been issued our own go-bags to take with us to our site placements. Or should I say “go-buckets.” We arrived at the Fulbright office yesterday to find nine 50-gallon blue plastic barrels waiting for their new owners. Not only are they filled with all the essentials, they could probably also serve as a personal life raft if Noah’s ark was not accessible.

"#12: Trap?" Perhaps we're meant to catch our own food to eat during an earthquake? (Note: We later found out it was a misspelling of "tarp." It was a bit of a relief...)

While we joke about actually using the axe and hammer and trying to boil the 2 kg of rice provided, there’s something comforting about feeling prepared for an unexpected natural force. In a way, I’ve accumulated my own “go-bag” to bring with me into the classroom, filling it with ideas for games, songs, crafts, and other activities that make me feel more prepared for the teaching that lies ahead. (Although hopefully my method of classroom management won’t be “drop, cover, and hold on!”)

Leaving for Gorkha bright and early Monday morning – more details to come after getting settled in!