Nothing is Permanent. And change is fast if it’s not slow.

“Nothing is Permanent“, by Brave Combo from the album “No no no cha cha.“

That’s a phrase that rings true no matter where (or when) you are. Personally, I like change. Usually. When I can control the changes, I like it better than when change happens to me.

Living here in Korea, change is a constant. Anyone who comes here as I have to teach English comes on a one-year contract. Many people stay longer. Some bail out earlier. Back home in America people come and go as well, but it’s not so fraught with the finality that permeates the leaving here. In America, people change jobs and even change cities but it’s far less common than here. Moreover, since teachers here come from multiple points around the globe, the likelihood of meeting again outside of Korea is reduced to almost nil for all but the best of friendships. When they go, they’re gone.

I’ve gotten used to seeing people go. I can count on one hand the number of English-speaking friends I have here that I met way back in 2004.  Although those that have already moved on are still virtually around thanks to tools like facebook and email its not the same as being in the same room, having live conversations, sharing a meal or a drink. One can argue the virtues of webcams all night, but it’s just not the same. Period.

Of course, just as some friends leave, others come to fill their shoes. I’ve made a lot of new friends over the years.

Last night I went to dinner with two friends who I have only known for a year. Although they spent two years here, the first was in the northern part of the country and I only met them last spring. I first met Robert and Lisa when Robert read and commented on a rock climbing article I’d posted on UlsanOnline.com.  We hooked up for some climbing and became great friends. They left this morning to go back to the USA for a short visit and then they are off to Cambodia for an internship in working with the poor, underprivileged and abused.

We went to dinner at Kebapistan, one of the few western restaurants in Ulsan. This one specializes in Turkish food and is Robert and Lisa’s favorite. I like it as well. Nothing like a little Mediterranean food to ward off the Kimchi blues. They also have hookahs – large water pipes with flavored tobacco. I’m not a big fan of hookahs, but when passed the hose I’ll usually indulge although I’d never order one for myself.

I met several new friends at the dinner. That’s not uncommon either. Foreigners here tend to congregate together and networking is a given. If you know one, you’ll soon meet their friends, either in-person or on the ubiquitous book of faces.  Some of these new friends are just into their first year here. On my right, Daniel, is about to finish his 1st year and will come back. Since I just met him last night, I hope to catch up with him again. Two friends go out, another comes in. Change is permanent.

On my left is William, another good friend who I met after he arrived last year. Robert and I and taught him to rock climb. He’s finished his year contract and has already signed a new contract for another year.  William and his girlfriend, Youngran (next to Lisa) and MyeongHee and I are already planning on visiting Robert and Lisa in Cambodia this year.  MyeongHee and I had already talked about going to Cambodia on vacation this year to see Angkor Wat and now we have even more reason to go with Robert and Lisa paving the way. Another adventure awaits.