Goodwill

Shue-Sher

“Thanks for helping with my English.”

Goodwill first met Shue-Sher (pronounced See-Sir) of Taiwan when he enrolled as a student in one of the English as a Second Language (ESL) classes offered by Goodwill.  Already a competent language learner, Shue-Sher easily settled into an advanced ESL class taught by David Cassaday, ESL Instructor. 

Excited to polish his English speaking skills, as well as increase his understanding of the language, the outgoing Shue-Sher often spends more than two hours bicycling from the Orchards area of Washington to the ESL classroom located in S.E. Portland location.  David is impressed with his learning ability,

"Shue-Sher worked hard to improve his English, particularly his pronunciation of multi-syllable words. He often volunteered to lead groups in discussions, an attribute that reflected his leadership skills. He also showed concern for other students who were struggling, often assisting them to understand a word, concept, or grammar point."

While his ESL class certainly helps him learn how to communicate effectively with his Pacific Northwest neighbors, Shue-Sher is also eager to take on the role as a guide.  His greatest wish is to teach each of his new American friends how an individual can benefit from reconnecting with one’s inner self on a deeper level through meditation.  Several years before he retired as a researcher of physics, Shue-Sher learned about the benefits of meditation while contemplating the meaning of life.  Today, Shue-Sher engages in daily mental exercises in an effort to reach a peaceful state of mind. According to Shue-Sher, additional benefits of daily meditation include greater focus, creativity, stress relief and an increase in health.

Whether he is sharpening his English skills, or sharing the values of meditation with others, Shue-Sher is certainly one man who has successfully achieved a balance in life as a student and as a teacher.