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 fter I decided on an early  retirement and became a Life  Coach, I suddenly realized I  had plenty more to do and give  and a strong desire to help others.

It all started in January 2019, when I decided to take a trip to Luang Prabang,  Laos.  This was not just any trip, mind you, but it was something in a much  deeper  level. A feeling of wanting to explore the old city in the deepest way I can.   What is more, Luang Prabang is truly amazing, unique, its richness in culture, and   the people are so loving and kind, they make sure you felt at home.

Apart from my positive experience, this is where I felt a sudden urge to get involve   and be part of their world. I’ve decided to embark on a charity project. The 7 Pearl  Living Foundation.

This project spoke to me on a personal and emotional level.  My walls were down, I was vulnerable, and I had a certain awareness that life comes along with some challenges.  For this reason, I’ve decided to volunteer teaching English to children and help others in need.

I have never done teaching before but I find the most important thing is how much I care about them and how much I would put into it. Having the ability to speak, read and write English makes a valuable difference to the people as it gives them a chance to attract life-changing opportunities in their lives.  As a result, I signed up for a TEFL Certification course (Teaching English as a Foreign Language).  This will give me a head start and help me feel confident and well prepared when I start teaching. Learning is fun!  That’s my motto! And fun makes learning much easier and more effective.

In my travels, I learnt a great deal about people and their culture.  I always felt I was open-minded, adapt to new situations and to communicate in different ways with people of all backgrounds.

Respect is the key.  To respect their culture can go a long way to create a culture of respect and trust.  You have to be passionate. People and especially children feed off your energy, even if you don’t speak their language.  They could see enthusiasm and love, when you look at their eyes, a beautiful picture indeed.

So, imagine sharing your time and love while seeing people with smiles because you are with them and to know that you can make a difference in someone’s life when you do it with all your heart.

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”  –  William Shakespeare