“May You Grow an Inch More Mature Through Travel…” Sister Hye-in Meets Jamboree Girls
On September 9th, a special meeting took place at the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters' Convent in Gwang-an-dong, Busan. Four girls from America, Asia, and Europe, including British teenager Alice (18), had a tea talk with Sister Hye-in. These teenagers, who participated in the World Scout Jamboree held in Saemangeum, Jeonbuk last year, returned to Korea to join the 'GG Summer School,' invited by the 'Great Geographical Society' (GGS).
The girls arrived in Busan after visiting the Demilitarized Zone and traveling through Cheonan, Suncheon, Tongyeong, and Geoje. During the meeting with Sister Hye-in, she talked about the importance of travel and shared that she keeps a world map in her room. She emphasized, “As a nun, staying in one place can narrow your mind. It’s important to remember the broader world through the map and to expand your heart.”
The 'GG Summer School' began on August 1st at Seoul National University's Graduate School of Environmental Studies with a reading of Sister Hye-in's poetry. This program, aimed at nurturing international talents through geography and ecology education and career lectures, considered Sister Hye-in’s poetry to have a special meaning for the program.
Sister Hye-in described herself as a 'cloud angel' and explained that poetry connects her with readers. She said, “Poetry transcends religion and serves as a 'winged angel.'” Moved by this metaphor, British girl Alice responded, “You are doing wonderful work to manifest inner beauty.”
Sister Hye-in also highlighted the importance of time, stating, “Moments missed will not return,” and advised that, “If you manage your time well, you can lead a successful life.”
After the tea talk in Busan, the girls continued their exploration of nature and ecology through exchange events in Gunsan, Gochang, and Jeonju. Naila (18) from Indonesia expressed, “I love Korean culture and am grateful for the new opportunities,” adding that “although the Jamboree was challenging, it left beautiful memories.” Renata (15) from Mexico shared, “I am excited and happy to be back in Korea,” and expressed a desire to gain more experiences.
Professor Eje Kim from Kyongin National University of Education remarked, “We prepared even small-scale events faithfully to educational principles to leave a good impression of Korea,” and added hopes for the revitalization of international exchanges.
