Venturing off the base on a bicycle, I rode past a small town with a few buildings, then out into the country. The Yellow Sea was close by, so I rode out to see it. Later, I found a mountain trail, parked my bike and started walking up the hill. I was about 2/3 of the way to the top, when 4 young Korean kids, out for a day of flying kites, came running by me, laughing and giggling loudly as they ran. My Nikon said, "Well, are you going to use me or not?" So, I began snapping some pictures. Who was I to argue?

Down the hill, out of sight a mother was a little concerned as she watched her children briefly interact with this "American long-hair." The hill was perfect for a controlled downhill run ... for kids, that is. As they passed and then disappeared, I gazed out upon the beautiful rice fields of Kunsan, that I had overlooked while climbing the hill.    Somehow, these kids brought a big smile to my face. I had hoped that I would find happiness and contentment here, but wasn't really sure what the reality of life in South Korea would be like. Of course, one can't generalize, but happy kids are a good sign that peace and love are the same all around the world.

Next Page