One week ago, I landed in the George Best Belfast City Airport. I was sweaty, deliriously sleep deprived, and eager to begin my life here. Expecting the nightmarish winds and torrential rain of lore, I was pleasantly surprised when a light breeze greeted me and gentle sun rays warmed my face. Once I arrived at my new home, I sat and enjoyed the beautiful view from my window for a while– to the right, I could see the beautiful buildings in city center, and to the left, I could see the rolling green hills that surround Belfast. I was filled with awe and joy that this is my life now, and I vowed not to become numb to the magic of this place.

     My first few days were full of mundane tasks to get my room and kitchen set up, but I was far from bored. As I walked to buy hangers and towels from Primark, I drank in the vibrant colors of Belfast; there’s a mural around every corner, cheery flower pots hang under store awnings, and bright lights adorn every alley. This city brims with creativity and community, and I now get to participate in it.

     On Sunday, I decided to visit a church near my flat. It was built in 1816, and I imagined generations of churchgoers sitting in my place while I studied the intricate stained glass windows and let the ethereal choral notes wash over me. After church, I stayed for tea and a chat, and everyone was friendly and welcoming. Two old Irishmen, Billy and Frances, invited me to lunch with them at a nearby cafe. We enjoyed fish and chips together, then visited the Ulster Museum. They spent the whole day regaling me with tales of Belfast past, which gave me a picture of what this city has been and how it has changed. I was struck by the kindness of these strangers who were so welcoming and enthusiastic about sharing their city with me. It was a good reminder that the opportunity for spontaneous adventure is always around the corner, if only I am willing to say yes to it. 

     Monday was my first day of work at Fighting Words. They very kindly let me come into work late because they knew that I was still fighting the jet lag demons (I have now finally adjusted). My supervisor, Aoife, spent the first whole day introducing me to Belfast and Fighting Words. She took me through a practice storymaking workshop, walked me around the area to show me a nearby coffee shop and park, and gave me an overview of all the work we will be doing. On Tuesday and Wednesday, I got to participate in virtual and in-person storymaking workshops. During the two hour workshops, we take the children through the process of writing an original story. We start off by making a list of story “ingredients”, then brainstorm ideas for the main character, the main character’s greatest wish and greatest fear, and a best friend or villain. The children have brilliantly creative ideas, like an immortal piece of toast named Bob or a mischievous hamster named Chubby. Next, we write Chapter 1 of the story as a group, with the children taking turns crafting the story line by line and ending the chapter on a cliffhanger. Finally, we give them half an hour to write their own Chapter Twos. Their imaginations overflow, and chatter rises in the room as they excitedly share their ideas with their classmates and mentors. We guide them when they get stuck, asking open ended questions to help them develop their characters, dialogue, and plot points. At the end of the workshop, a few children read their Chapter Twos to the class, and they often have pictures to share as well. I cannot even put into words what a fulfilling experience these workshops are. Seeing kids who have previously dreaded reading and writing light up with the realization that they have the ability to tell stories of their own is such a special moment to be present for. Yesterday, one child even asked if she could keep writing chapters of the book and bring them back to show us. Even though most classes only do one workshop per year, I know that the workshops’ impact is deep and lasting for many of the students. 

     At the end of week one here, I could not be more content. I have met kind people, enjoyed meals with roommates and new friends, explored new parts of the city on foot and on transit, learned lots in my new workplace, and already begun to feel at home here.

Back soon with more updates!

Eleri xx