In case you thinks it's all bad.... It's not. Not by a long shot. There are many bright spots.
For one, and possibly the most obvious, I'm reminded every day, many many times a day, in this country, how blessed I am. It's "normal" to be so blessed in the US; it's no so normal here. And to think how blessed I am with the God I know, family I have, the up bring I've had; with the opportunities I've had, with the friends I have, wow.... seriously amazing.
Part of that blessing is that I get to have Thanksgiving at my home in Stuart this year with part of my family (Eulice/Wanda, Mike, Mark and Keith), the Bergs (David/Kathy/Kayla/Josh), and Mack and Jan. I could not have chose a better dinner party list. But there's more...
Luckson is coming to visit for a week, starting Dec. 12th. He's been my little brother from years and it will be a great time to catch up. And then, the Holiday season starts right after that with my sister Yuvonia and my Mom joining us all in Florida. And then.... when I do return to the DR (probably around Jan 6th), my Mom plans to join me for a few weeks.
So, I'll be surround by some incredible people for many weeks to come. Not that there are not some incredible people here; there is; but not quite the deep long relationships of family and life long friends.
I guess if I were to ask for one thing... it would be to try to capture the blessing of this day. Not the days ahead in the US. But this day. And secondly... to find the strength to love people that extort and manipulate. (Because in some ways, I would do the same thing if I were in their shoes; no excuses; just facts of life) And, no matter how much they try to extort, they will probably never see the blessings I've received. So, really it's mostly sorrow and pity I feel. And perhaps a little guilt. The "why me" questions of why I've been so blessed.
And some of the small blessings.... my dog Zoi is almost house trained. I thought it would never happen, and there are still setbacks, but she's 100% better than before. Thank you Lord.
And the kid that we've been fostering, Kevin, is doing much better. And I've even met with his Mom a time or two. She's much better (for the moment) and Nananina (Kevin's half sister) is also doing good, it appears.
And, while the first week of building the house was insane, and this week has been hard, not quite as hard. The shock of how hard it's going to be has kinda worn off... so I've gotten a little better at pacing myself.
And.... cross your fingers, I've had good electricity for almost 1 1/2 weeks now; not all the time mind you, but with an inverter and batteries, basically 24/7. That makes a huge difference!!!
And, I've started back on a somewhat regular running pace. I had not run for almost 4 weeks, but am back to 3 times a week, and surprised that I was not in any pain.
All in all, things are okay. Tough, but surviving. And I'm thankful God continues to bless, and protect and give me grace. Thanks for the prayers. That's the good news.
Friday, November 14, 2008
I’m Sure I’ve Lost My Mind
....Because despite all that’s happening and all the potential up coming changes in things around here, I have decided to start building a house in this country. And believe me the words cannot begin to express all that means. Not even close.
For one, for those that know, I can’t seem to do anything small. And this is no exception. Not that I want a big house; frankly I honestly don’t. But, the land that I purchased is practically right on the ocean, so it’s calling for a large house. And, that’s what I engaged an architect to design.
More probably said, I engaged an “architect” to complete the formal drawings of a plan I had already completed. He just had to make it suitable for Dominican review. And him taking 8 times to literally copy the plans should have given me a clue as to what I was about to get into. Literally I gave him practically every dimension and it was amazaing how many different version he could come up with, EXCEPT the exact copy of what I had given him. A sign of things to come.
Well, the logical question is... then why am I building? And, believe me, I ask myself the same thing over and over again. And, all I can come up with is that if I don’t build, about 15 families don’t eat. When we say things are bad in the US, it’s so so far from what’s happening here, and likely in most places that are called “third world”. The only thing I can’t imagine is how bad it is in places like Haiti. If this is bad, what’s Haiti like.
In the past, for this area, there are some folks we’ve hired to help build missionary houses, dorms, etc. And these folks are all mostly Haitian. So, when they heard that I was possibly building a house, 6 of them decided they would come from Haiti and, at the risk of not building the house, wait around Rio San Juan until I did start, if I did start. At that time, I really had no plans to start building. Quite the opposite; at the time, I had NO plans to build anytime soon, especially given how uncertain things are for me right now.
Well, on their way from Haiti to the DR, these 6 guys were beaten, robbed, and thrown in jail for one simple reason... they were Haitian. All done by the police. And they risked all they had for one reason; if they didn’t get this job, they had no job; which means no money, which means no food or anything else for their families. Literally nothing. No “welfare” in Haiti. So, they literally risk their lives to work in the DR, despite all the extreme prejudice.
And guess how much they get paid per day....??? Around 12 dollars. Yep $12 for a day of incredibly hard hard labor. Labor rarely seen in the US because we use all these fancy machines to do our work; especially the hard stuff. Not here; it’s all by hand and hard labor. And that’s the job they risk their lives for. To bust these huge boulders of rock with the most basic of tools (pike and shovel and sledge hammers) for $12 per day.
So, when they get out of jail they that are told that if they report the incident they will be killed. And in this country that is NOT an idle threat. And then, they show up in Rio San Juan and wait for me to start a house I had NO PLANS to start right now. So, what do I do? I prayed about it; got some counsel, and I started building a house I don’t want to build right now.
The first week was again an incredibly hard, insane, almost indescribable experience. Like I’m in a world; back a 100 years or more. Stress I’ve not seen in a long long time. These groups of “official” representatives of various “government” agencies in the DR, all wanting bribes or payoffs. Problems with everything from the details of the plans to the foundation and everything, everything in between.
And, to tie it all of with a nice bow, the architect, as it turns out, has been lying about almost everything he told me including fees he’s supposed to have paid, the accuracy of the drawings, and then.... He has the nerve to ask me for more money. I literally threw him out of the house.
I had previously agreed on a set price, and several weeks back, after listening to his sad story of all the government fees he had to pay, I paid him about 30% more than the total contract price I was obligaged to. Well, as it turns out, it was all a lie to extort money from me. And now, he’s refusing to cooperate with transferring the plans to another person whom I know better and trust more. But, he is being investigated by the town officials because evidently this is a common practice they are trying to stop. Welcome to the DR.
I also have studied the plans and as I suspected, they are not engineered correctly. While I know little about engineering, again the architect was responsible for having the plans engineered correctly (everything around here is building with concrete and steel, so engineering is extremely important). So, now the work has come to a stop and I’m having to pay about a 1/3 more in design and engineering fees, on top of what I’ve already paid.
So, basically I’ve had a week of extortionist and lies, one right after another. And all for one reason, because I’m white and some see me as rich and stupid. Well, at least half that version is not true. And, this is week 1 of what could easily be a year or more!!!
I’m now having to basically start again at many many level and realize that this experience is probably going to be the absolute hardest hardest hardest project I’ve ever done. And the funny yet sad thing is that I know this on the front end, and it scares me. But, I’m not stopping today.
I’m dead tired every night from fighting extornists and having to run from one place to another to keep the workers going (all 15 of them). And when I pay them $12 a day, they look in my eyes and say “thank you”. And I want to scream and say that I’m stopping, but I can’t stop. And, this is on top of the “ministry” I’m in the midde of, which does not stop either.
Surely, I have lost my mind. Or will soon.
For one, for those that know, I can’t seem to do anything small. And this is no exception. Not that I want a big house; frankly I honestly don’t. But, the land that I purchased is practically right on the ocean, so it’s calling for a large house. And, that’s what I engaged an architect to design.
More probably said, I engaged an “architect” to complete the formal drawings of a plan I had already completed. He just had to make it suitable for Dominican review. And him taking 8 times to literally copy the plans should have given me a clue as to what I was about to get into. Literally I gave him practically every dimension and it was amazaing how many different version he could come up with, EXCEPT the exact copy of what I had given him. A sign of things to come.
Well, the logical question is... then why am I building? And, believe me, I ask myself the same thing over and over again. And, all I can come up with is that if I don’t build, about 15 families don’t eat. When we say things are bad in the US, it’s so so far from what’s happening here, and likely in most places that are called “third world”. The only thing I can’t imagine is how bad it is in places like Haiti. If this is bad, what’s Haiti like.
In the past, for this area, there are some folks we’ve hired to help build missionary houses, dorms, etc. And these folks are all mostly Haitian. So, when they heard that I was possibly building a house, 6 of them decided they would come from Haiti and, at the risk of not building the house, wait around Rio San Juan until I did start, if I did start. At that time, I really had no plans to start building. Quite the opposite; at the time, I had NO plans to build anytime soon, especially given how uncertain things are for me right now.
Well, on their way from Haiti to the DR, these 6 guys were beaten, robbed, and thrown in jail for one simple reason... they were Haitian. All done by the police. And they risked all they had for one reason; if they didn’t get this job, they had no job; which means no money, which means no food or anything else for their families. Literally nothing. No “welfare” in Haiti. So, they literally risk their lives to work in the DR, despite all the extreme prejudice.
And guess how much they get paid per day....??? Around 12 dollars. Yep $12 for a day of incredibly hard hard labor. Labor rarely seen in the US because we use all these fancy machines to do our work; especially the hard stuff. Not here; it’s all by hand and hard labor. And that’s the job they risk their lives for. To bust these huge boulders of rock with the most basic of tools (pike and shovel and sledge hammers) for $12 per day.
So, when they get out of jail they that are told that if they report the incident they will be killed. And in this country that is NOT an idle threat. And then, they show up in Rio San Juan and wait for me to start a house I had NO PLANS to start right now. So, what do I do? I prayed about it; got some counsel, and I started building a house I don’t want to build right now.
The first week was again an incredibly hard, insane, almost indescribable experience. Like I’m in a world; back a 100 years or more. Stress I’ve not seen in a long long time. These groups of “official” representatives of various “government” agencies in the DR, all wanting bribes or payoffs. Problems with everything from the details of the plans to the foundation and everything, everything in between.
And, to tie it all of with a nice bow, the architect, as it turns out, has been lying about almost everything he told me including fees he’s supposed to have paid, the accuracy of the drawings, and then.... He has the nerve to ask me for more money. I literally threw him out of the house.
I had previously agreed on a set price, and several weeks back, after listening to his sad story of all the government fees he had to pay, I paid him about 30% more than the total contract price I was obligaged to. Well, as it turns out, it was all a lie to extort money from me. And now, he’s refusing to cooperate with transferring the plans to another person whom I know better and trust more. But, he is being investigated by the town officials because evidently this is a common practice they are trying to stop. Welcome to the DR.
I also have studied the plans and as I suspected, they are not engineered correctly. While I know little about engineering, again the architect was responsible for having the plans engineered correctly (everything around here is building with concrete and steel, so engineering is extremely important). So, now the work has come to a stop and I’m having to pay about a 1/3 more in design and engineering fees, on top of what I’ve already paid.
So, basically I’ve had a week of extortionist and lies, one right after another. And all for one reason, because I’m white and some see me as rich and stupid. Well, at least half that version is not true. And, this is week 1 of what could easily be a year or more!!!
I’m now having to basically start again at many many level and realize that this experience is probably going to be the absolute hardest hardest hardest project I’ve ever done. And the funny yet sad thing is that I know this on the front end, and it scares me. But, I’m not stopping today.
I’m dead tired every night from fighting extornists and having to run from one place to another to keep the workers going (all 15 of them). And when I pay them $12 a day, they look in my eyes and say “thank you”. And I want to scream and say that I’m stopping, but I can’t stop. And, this is on top of the “ministry” I’m in the midde of, which does not stop either.
Surely, I have lost my mind. Or will soon.
Friday, October 24, 2008
I Did Get Around to It
I did take the time to get at least these photos posted.
Meet Zoi, Doberman Pincsher Female. Born June 30th in Miami, FL. Adopted August 26th; taken to the DR on Sept. 1st. See more details in other blog post.
Meet Zoi, Doberman Pincsher Female. Born June 30th in Miami, FL. Adopted August 26th; taken to the DR on Sept. 1st. See more details in other blog post.
If There's One Picture I Would Post
It would be of my new dog, Zoi. Zoi is a Doberman Pinscher puppy that I got when I was back in the States in August. She was born June 30th. I brought her back with me on September 1st.
She's cute and cuddly and friendly. She's has been a hit with most of the folks coming in and out of the Center. And she's been a lot of company to me.
I'm deliberating about whether or not to take her home with me for the Christmas break. I'm taking December off in Florida, and that's a long time for my folks here who I work with, to take care of her. I think she'd survive fine, but this is such a crucial bonding time in her life. And the 5 weeks I plan to spend in Florida is a long time. So, some of you may get to meet her if I bring her home. My biggest delima is the money. You know me, I'm cheap. I had to spend $250 to fly a dog home. But, we'll see. Most of you wouldn't blink at spending that money, but me....
She has been a hand full. I always forget how hard puppies are, until I get one. Well, I have one. And she's female. And she's INCREDIBLY hard to house train. Not sure what I'm doing wrong. She goes outside, does her business, and literally with 10 minutes repeats her business right in the middle of the living room floor. (or at night, go all night without any problems). Very very inconsistent. That's driving me crazy.
Otherwise, she's been a huge blessing and I look forward to having her around. I really do need to at least post a picture of my new puppy.
She's cute and cuddly and friendly. She's has been a hit with most of the folks coming in and out of the Center. And she's been a lot of company to me.
I'm deliberating about whether or not to take her home with me for the Christmas break. I'm taking December off in Florida, and that's a long time for my folks here who I work with, to take care of her. I think she'd survive fine, but this is such a crucial bonding time in her life. And the 5 weeks I plan to spend in Florida is a long time. So, some of you may get to meet her if I bring her home. My biggest delima is the money. You know me, I'm cheap. I had to spend $250 to fly a dog home. But, we'll see. Most of you wouldn't blink at spending that money, but me....
She has been a hand full. I always forget how hard puppies are, until I get one. Well, I have one. And she's female. And she's INCREDIBLY hard to house train. Not sure what I'm doing wrong. She goes outside, does her business, and literally with 10 minutes repeats her business right in the middle of the living room floor. (or at night, go all night without any problems). Very very inconsistent. That's driving me crazy.
Otherwise, she's been a huge blessing and I look forward to having her around. I really do need to at least post a picture of my new puppy.
Not What I Signed Up For
It’s the new theme that I seem to be hearing from a lot of people. Including myself.
There are some major changes that will occur over the next several months here in the DR that will impact all of us. For one, Brian Wallace, the Director of the program (Manna International) is leaving and heading back to Florida indefinitely. His wife’s (Tammie) father is doing very poorly with his health and the family needs Tammie and Brian to help care through this rough time. Brian/Tammie have been on the mission field for 30+ years, so this is going to be a hard transition in many ways to go back. But, it’s what they need to do to take care of their family. We all admire them for what they mean to us here, but also their willingness to support their family in a time of need. We support their decision, but will miss them.
They are not sure of the future. Brian hopes to continue to work in a capacity that allows him to use his talents, but not sure exactly what that all means.
In the mean time, the work here will continue. We’re in the process of reassigning and reevaluating roles and responsibilities. All I really know is that I’m not sure what I’ll be doing or for how long. I came specifically to help Brian set up an extended training program for young adults. That will not be happening here anytime soon, so I’m not sure how best to use my skills. There are plenty of “openings” but not sure what’s best.
We have new team members joining us in January. Two couple who are currently in language school (Spanish) in Guatamala. Brian and I flew to Quatamala last week to deliver the news of him leaving to them personally, so they could have time to digest, ask questions, and suggest ways they can help. Like all of us, they recognize the great hole Brian & Tammie will leave, but are still planning to come. I’ve greatful for their commitment.
So, things continue to change. It’s such a different world. In America I generally had a direction of where I was headed, and it seems I ended up there, for the most part. I know that may be different for others, but for me, paths were somewhat layed out and achieved. Not here. Not by a long shot.
Every path thus far has changed dramatically. I still don’t see myself in a different “job”; no desire to go back to what I had or was. Just not sure what specific role I will play; where, or when. My hope is that I’ll continue to stick with this. But it’s not what I signed up for.
There are some major changes that will occur over the next several months here in the DR that will impact all of us. For one, Brian Wallace, the Director of the program (Manna International) is leaving and heading back to Florida indefinitely. His wife’s (Tammie) father is doing very poorly with his health and the family needs Tammie and Brian to help care through this rough time. Brian/Tammie have been on the mission field for 30+ years, so this is going to be a hard transition in many ways to go back. But, it’s what they need to do to take care of their family. We all admire them for what they mean to us here, but also their willingness to support their family in a time of need. We support their decision, but will miss them.
They are not sure of the future. Brian hopes to continue to work in a capacity that allows him to use his talents, but not sure exactly what that all means.
In the mean time, the work here will continue. We’re in the process of reassigning and reevaluating roles and responsibilities. All I really know is that I’m not sure what I’ll be doing or for how long. I came specifically to help Brian set up an extended training program for young adults. That will not be happening here anytime soon, so I’m not sure how best to use my skills. There are plenty of “openings” but not sure what’s best.
We have new team members joining us in January. Two couple who are currently in language school (Spanish) in Guatamala. Brian and I flew to Quatamala last week to deliver the news of him leaving to them personally, so they could have time to digest, ask questions, and suggest ways they can help. Like all of us, they recognize the great hole Brian & Tammie will leave, but are still planning to come. I’ve greatful for their commitment.
So, things continue to change. It’s such a different world. In America I generally had a direction of where I was headed, and it seems I ended up there, for the most part. I know that may be different for others, but for me, paths were somewhat layed out and achieved. Not here. Not by a long shot.
Every path thus far has changed dramatically. I still don’t see myself in a different “job”; no desire to go back to what I had or was. Just not sure what specific role I will play; where, or when. My hope is that I’ll continue to stick with this. But it’s not what I signed up for.
Where's Norm Been
Good question.
If you’ve emailed me and I’ve not responded, you’d probably have to take a number and stand in a long line of people. I’m sorry, but it’s hard for me to getting around to emailing. After you spend your energy on putting out fires of all sorts and trying to push things forward, the other important but less urgent things get pushed aside. But, thanks for emailing. It is a great encouragement. And, to be honest, given what's ahead I'm afraid I'm going to get worse at it, not better.
Got back here in September to a half finished project (more like 80% finished) of a resource center we’ve purchased and we (me and Tim/Lisa Bynum most) immediately dug into finishing it up. It consumed far my of my time than I expected. Not quite finished yet, and it's been almost two months!
It’s going to be a nice place, very nice, has needed a lot of work. And, the work that’s needed also comes with foreign help, Dominican’s, (local electricians, tile layers, plumbers, etc.) and their skills are minimal at best. So, it’s been a huge challenge to deal with. I’m accustom to extremely skilled craftsman and technicians. That’s not here. More growing pains.
Lately, even though we now have internet 24/7 and I’ve installed a battery inverter system to use when there’s no city power, the electricity has been very bad. Not even enough electricity to charge the batteries, so for now we have very little. And thus things like internet and emails are hard to come by. It’s amazing how different life is with electricity. Everything, everything uses electricity. When you don’t have it for months on end, it gets really tiring.
So, that must mean I’m about ready to toss in the towel, or at a minimum slow things down. Well, not really. Quite the opposite, I’ve made plans to start on building a house. And we’re suppose to start next week. I must be mad. But, in the final analysis of whether to start or not, I see how employing 10-20 people to build a house sustains many families that need the work. Frankly, all things being equal, I wouldn’t start now, but I’m going to anyway. I’m sure it will be unspeakably difficult. But, I also have a peace about it. Not the house or the outcome, just that I’m starting it. We’ll see how it goes.
So, keep hanging in there. I will eventually blog, if not email.
That's where I've been.
If you’ve emailed me and I’ve not responded, you’d probably have to take a number and stand in a long line of people. I’m sorry, but it’s hard for me to getting around to emailing. After you spend your energy on putting out fires of all sorts and trying to push things forward, the other important but less urgent things get pushed aside. But, thanks for emailing. It is a great encouragement. And, to be honest, given what's ahead I'm afraid I'm going to get worse at it, not better.
Got back here in September to a half finished project (more like 80% finished) of a resource center we’ve purchased and we (me and Tim/Lisa Bynum most) immediately dug into finishing it up. It consumed far my of my time than I expected. Not quite finished yet, and it's been almost two months!
It’s going to be a nice place, very nice, has needed a lot of work. And, the work that’s needed also comes with foreign help, Dominican’s, (local electricians, tile layers, plumbers, etc.) and their skills are minimal at best. So, it’s been a huge challenge to deal with. I’m accustom to extremely skilled craftsman and technicians. That’s not here. More growing pains.
Lately, even though we now have internet 24/7 and I’ve installed a battery inverter system to use when there’s no city power, the electricity has been very bad. Not even enough electricity to charge the batteries, so for now we have very little. And thus things like internet and emails are hard to come by. It’s amazing how different life is with electricity. Everything, everything uses electricity. When you don’t have it for months on end, it gets really tiring.
So, that must mean I’m about ready to toss in the towel, or at a minimum slow things down. Well, not really. Quite the opposite, I’ve made plans to start on building a house. And we’re suppose to start next week. I must be mad. But, in the final analysis of whether to start or not, I see how employing 10-20 people to build a house sustains many families that need the work. Frankly, all things being equal, I wouldn’t start now, but I’m going to anyway. I’m sure it will be unspeakably difficult. But, I also have a peace about it. Not the house or the outcome, just that I’m starting it. We’ll see how it goes.
So, keep hanging in there. I will eventually blog, if not email.
That's where I've been.
Things You Wish You’d Never Seen
I’m sure I’ve drank some nasty water in the past, but at least I didn’t know it was so nasty.
The new Center has a cistern, which is kinda a large concrete tank to store water. The water comes from the city, is pumped into the tank a couple of times a week, and from there, I then pump water to another tank on the roof top, thus having a gravity feed water system.
Well, the problem came when I decided to shine a flashlight into the cistern. This after using the water to cook with, brush my teeth, bath, wash dishes, etc. Everything really but drink straight. The flashlight revealed fish, no big deal. But what where the fish eating?? Dead cockroaches floating in the tank. And more light revealed all kinds of trash, wood, metal, and a ton of algae growing in the cistern. No wonder the fish are doing so well, and the cochroaches.
I’ve now changed my water usage habits. I still use it to shower; it’s either that, or no shower, and use it to wash clothes and dishes (what else can I do?). Not sure how clean the dishes are getting or if the water is doing more harm than good on them, but for the first time I can remember, I use bottled water to brush my teeth and purpose not to drink the water or cook with it.
The plans are to drain the cistern and scrub it down. Not exactly sure how. Perhaps hire a kid that’s small enough to fit inside the 12x12 inch opening. But, hopefully it will happen soon. I generally don’t get grossed out with stuff, but this is SO nasty.
If I had just never looked inside I would have been fine. Things you wish you’d never seen.
The new Center has a cistern, which is kinda a large concrete tank to store water. The water comes from the city, is pumped into the tank a couple of times a week, and from there, I then pump water to another tank on the roof top, thus having a gravity feed water system.
Well, the problem came when I decided to shine a flashlight into the cistern. This after using the water to cook with, brush my teeth, bath, wash dishes, etc. Everything really but drink straight. The flashlight revealed fish, no big deal. But what where the fish eating?? Dead cockroaches floating in the tank. And more light revealed all kinds of trash, wood, metal, and a ton of algae growing in the cistern. No wonder the fish are doing so well, and the cochroaches.
I’ve now changed my water usage habits. I still use it to shower; it’s either that, or no shower, and use it to wash clothes and dishes (what else can I do?). Not sure how clean the dishes are getting or if the water is doing more harm than good on them, but for the first time I can remember, I use bottled water to brush my teeth and purpose not to drink the water or cook with it.
The plans are to drain the cistern and scrub it down. Not exactly sure how. Perhaps hire a kid that’s small enough to fit inside the 12x12 inch opening. But, hopefully it will happen soon. I generally don’t get grossed out with stuff, but this is SO nasty.
If I had just never looked inside I would have been fine. Things you wish you’d never seen.
Monday, October 13, 2008
So Much, So Fast
Things are changing here so quickly, I can't keep up. And the things that changed yesterday are over shadowed by the things that happened today. And, I'm guessing tomorrow with be the same.
I went to a hearing today, for a child (14 years old) that has been taken from his mother because she'd tried to kill him a couple of times. His name is Kevin. If you've seen prior pictures, you've seen him in them. He's been active in this ministry long before I got here.
At this hearing for Kevin, (with Osvaldo) I was there just to advocate that the proper steps were to be taken to make sure he's placed with the right person (family, whatever). And, like a scene out of a movie, where you blink and something else happens, they are awarding me temporary custody of him! What just happened??!! Well, truth is, as a single man it's not appropriate for him to be here with me, so we're placing him (hopefully) temporarily with the children's home folks in Bobita. But, they don't know that as of yet. I hope the team in Bobita meant it when they said if we had an emergency we could place someone there temporarily. Well, I think this falls in that category.
Other significant events are also taking place, but there's a time and place for everything. And, we've got to get things in order. But, it has a major impact on my future plans. I could really use some counsel from some of you right now! Just keep us all in your prayers. It's changing fast around here.
I do plan to get to the other reader's digest topics, but so much so fast.
I went to a hearing today, for a child (14 years old) that has been taken from his mother because she'd tried to kill him a couple of times. His name is Kevin. If you've seen prior pictures, you've seen him in them. He's been active in this ministry long before I got here.
At this hearing for Kevin, (with Osvaldo) I was there just to advocate that the proper steps were to be taken to make sure he's placed with the right person (family, whatever). And, like a scene out of a movie, where you blink and something else happens, they are awarding me temporary custody of him! What just happened??!! Well, truth is, as a single man it's not appropriate for him to be here with me, so we're placing him (hopefully) temporarily with the children's home folks in Bobita. But, they don't know that as of yet. I hope the team in Bobita meant it when they said if we had an emergency we could place someone there temporarily. Well, I think this falls in that category.
Other significant events are also taking place, but there's a time and place for everything. And, we've got to get things in order. But, it has a major impact on my future plans. I could really use some counsel from some of you right now! Just keep us all in your prayers. It's changing fast around here.
I do plan to get to the other reader's digest topics, but so much so fast.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Blog Topics
Here's life as a Reader's Digest Story Content Page:
What 3 Weeks of Rest in the USA Meant to Me
I’ve Moved; Our New Place is Almost Shiny and Almost New
My New Trailer; No Need for a Truck
I finally have semi-reliable electricity
I finally have high speed internet at my house; first time in my life
I Have a New Companion – Doberman Puppy Named Zoi
I’m Mugged
I Drink Swamp Water Daily with Fish, Cochroaches, and all the trimmings
My Old Housekeeper is New Again
If You Come to My Home in the DR, You might think you’re in America
I’m One Step from Starting a New House Project
I have a New Employee, William; Osvaldo has one foot out the door
My Almost New, Very Expensive, Motorcycle Develops a Damaged Piston Rod
If you Want to hear more, just let me know. How's that for brevity??
Where Has Norm Been???
What 3 Weeks of Rest in the USA Meant to Me
I’ve Moved; Our New Place is Almost Shiny and Almost New
My New Trailer; No Need for a Truck
I finally have semi-reliable electricity
I finally have high speed internet at my house; first time in my life
I Have a New Companion – Doberman Puppy Named Zoi
I’m Mugged
I Drink Swamp Water Daily with Fish, Cochroaches, and all the trimmings
My Old Housekeeper is New Again
If You Come to My Home in the DR, You might think you’re in America
I’m One Step from Starting a New House Project
I have a New Employee, William; Osvaldo has one foot out the door
My Almost New, Very Expensive, Motorcycle Develops a Damaged Piston Rod
If you Want to hear more, just let me know. How's that for brevity??
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Rear View Mirror
I bought a car when I arrived in the DR in March, 2008. It came from Japan, a used 2000 Toyota Surf, kinda like a 4 Runner, only diesel fuel. And it came without a rear view mirror. No big deal; so the guy that sold the car to me said he’d get me one the next time he was in Santiago. He goes there about every week. Fast forward FIVE months. He finally got me the rear view mirror! So, for 5 months I’ve been driving in the crazy world of the DR without a rear view mirror. Always needing one; never having one. And, now that I have one, I forget to use it. There is a point to this story….
I’m back in the States for 3 weeks. And, I should be looking back on the last several weeks and months in the rear view mirror; evaluating what I did and didn’t do. Things have gone at such a different pace than I expected. Some things laboriously slow. Others lightening fast. But, I often failed to look back and learn the lessons that were pounding on my door. Like forgetting I had a rear view mirror. Forgetting to take the time to just ponder on the things around me. Forgetting to get the counsel I needed to process what I was experiencing and hearing. Trading the important for the apparent urgent.
This past week a small team from S Avenue came to visit. Tons of things happened. Some amazing things. And yet, in the midst of it, tragedy. I use the word in its literal form.
Anne Marie Soto has been an integral part of my former youth group, Dreambuilders; now a sophomore in college. She’s by far one of my closest friends from that time. She’s been with me to Haiti, and now came to the DR. But only 3 days into our trip, we got a call that her brother, Ruben, 16 years old, had been shot and killed by police while driving a stolen car. Jacynth Woodside and I were the ones that had to break the news to Annie. I did a horrible job. I was emotional when I told her that she needed to return home for a family emergency. And of course the term “family emergency” did not satisfy her need to know as she could read in my breaking voice it was bad news; so we had to tell her that her brother had been killed. She went into shock, to say the least. Fits of rage; denial; weeping; anger; bewilderment. I didn’t know what to do; what to say. As God would have it, Jacynth was there to help with the initial mental processing. It was so hard for Annie to get the news while in the DR; far from home; far from her family.
Despite the loss of Ruben, the week with the S Ave crew was great. Hot and tiring because of much work and even higher temperatures. But, in the end, it all went extremely well. We had two days of community events in the open air basketball court across from my apartment. We had done the same with my sisters group that visited 2 weeks prior; so we were expecting around 80 kids; like the time before. However, this time we had less volunteers, but more experience, so we thought we were prepared. Well, word had gotten out I guess. Because this time we have 220+ kids. We stopped counting at 220, but they didn’t stop coming! It was at best controlled chaos. We had a music concert and then played games; kids won tickets to purchase prices (in the theme of Chucky Cheese). Unbelievable. But we survived, and even thrived. And again learned a lot. And I hope and pray the kids got to know God a little better; and had a good time.
Part of last week was spent finalizing a purchase of a property. Yep, it looks like we’re actually going to purchase property. At the last minute, a guy, desperate to sell his colmado (store front with apartment above), offered us a price that seemed very good. So, I was rushing to meet with real estate agents and attorneys and our crew (Manna International) to get it all reviewed to insure a real opportunity. It’s not finalized yet, but perhaps this week, while I’m gone. I’m rating it about a 95% probability of sale now. Now the real work begins; finding people to help pay for it. Cost: around $100K.
And, I’ve moved. The landlord of my apartment started getting a little more anxious about the furniture in the apartment; the amount of water I was using; electricity I was using (fans on as much as possible!), and constant constant visitors. He was a good landlord but was honest to say that he had not anticipated the number of visitors to my house on a daily basis. I understood completely, so thought it best to find another place. Spent 3 weeks looking, and so far, the only option is the possible purchasing of the colmado (store front) with an apartment above it, for me to live. So, if the sale does not go through, I’ll be looking for something else when I get back.
Lastly my architect is trying to wrap up the initial plans for my house. I’m still not sure if I’m going to build. I want to, but financially things are getting much tighter for me. I’ve gotten bad news from many many of my anticipated revenue streams. So, I’m not sure I want to tie up my last chunk of money right now. But, at least the plans are nearly complete. That is another long story. Working with an architect that doesn’t speak English; and me speaking poor Spanish. Oh the stories I could tell! Another lesson in communication, or the lack there of.
So, between the visiting group, the purchase of the new property, the move out of my apartment, and the finalizing house plans all coming to a head last week, I was grateful to leave for a break.
So, what I really need to do is use my rear view mirror. I’ve got now less than 3 weeks. I hope I use the time wisely.
I’m back in the States for 3 weeks. And, I should be looking back on the last several weeks and months in the rear view mirror; evaluating what I did and didn’t do. Things have gone at such a different pace than I expected. Some things laboriously slow. Others lightening fast. But, I often failed to look back and learn the lessons that were pounding on my door. Like forgetting I had a rear view mirror. Forgetting to take the time to just ponder on the things around me. Forgetting to get the counsel I needed to process what I was experiencing and hearing. Trading the important for the apparent urgent.
This past week a small team from S Avenue came to visit. Tons of things happened. Some amazing things. And yet, in the midst of it, tragedy. I use the word in its literal form.
Anne Marie Soto has been an integral part of my former youth group, Dreambuilders; now a sophomore in college. She’s by far one of my closest friends from that time. She’s been with me to Haiti, and now came to the DR. But only 3 days into our trip, we got a call that her brother, Ruben, 16 years old, had been shot and killed by police while driving a stolen car. Jacynth Woodside and I were the ones that had to break the news to Annie. I did a horrible job. I was emotional when I told her that she needed to return home for a family emergency. And of course the term “family emergency” did not satisfy her need to know as she could read in my breaking voice it was bad news; so we had to tell her that her brother had been killed. She went into shock, to say the least. Fits of rage; denial; weeping; anger; bewilderment. I didn’t know what to do; what to say. As God would have it, Jacynth was there to help with the initial mental processing. It was so hard for Annie to get the news while in the DR; far from home; far from her family.
Despite the loss of Ruben, the week with the S Ave crew was great. Hot and tiring because of much work and even higher temperatures. But, in the end, it all went extremely well. We had two days of community events in the open air basketball court across from my apartment. We had done the same with my sisters group that visited 2 weeks prior; so we were expecting around 80 kids; like the time before. However, this time we had less volunteers, but more experience, so we thought we were prepared. Well, word had gotten out I guess. Because this time we have 220+ kids. We stopped counting at 220, but they didn’t stop coming! It was at best controlled chaos. We had a music concert and then played games; kids won tickets to purchase prices (in the theme of Chucky Cheese). Unbelievable. But we survived, and even thrived. And again learned a lot. And I hope and pray the kids got to know God a little better; and had a good time.
Part of last week was spent finalizing a purchase of a property. Yep, it looks like we’re actually going to purchase property. At the last minute, a guy, desperate to sell his colmado (store front with apartment above), offered us a price that seemed very good. So, I was rushing to meet with real estate agents and attorneys and our crew (Manna International) to get it all reviewed to insure a real opportunity. It’s not finalized yet, but perhaps this week, while I’m gone. I’m rating it about a 95% probability of sale now. Now the real work begins; finding people to help pay for it. Cost: around $100K.
And, I’ve moved. The landlord of my apartment started getting a little more anxious about the furniture in the apartment; the amount of water I was using; electricity I was using (fans on as much as possible!), and constant constant visitors. He was a good landlord but was honest to say that he had not anticipated the number of visitors to my house on a daily basis. I understood completely, so thought it best to find another place. Spent 3 weeks looking, and so far, the only option is the possible purchasing of the colmado (store front) with an apartment above it, for me to live. So, if the sale does not go through, I’ll be looking for something else when I get back.
Lastly my architect is trying to wrap up the initial plans for my house. I’m still not sure if I’m going to build. I want to, but financially things are getting much tighter for me. I’ve gotten bad news from many many of my anticipated revenue streams. So, I’m not sure I want to tie up my last chunk of money right now. But, at least the plans are nearly complete. That is another long story. Working with an architect that doesn’t speak English; and me speaking poor Spanish. Oh the stories I could tell! Another lesson in communication, or the lack there of.
So, between the visiting group, the purchase of the new property, the move out of my apartment, and the finalizing house plans all coming to a head last week, I was grateful to leave for a break.
So, what I really need to do is use my rear view mirror. I’ve got now less than 3 weeks. I hope I use the time wisely.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Visitors - It's a Good Thing
In some ways, things are getting more and more routine. And in some ways, they never will be. Visitors and an open house are the most routine of my days here. Some local, so not so local.
This past week, my sisters (Yuvonia and Wanda) and a family friend (Debbie Nickens from Melbourne c/c) came for a visit. Really my first USA visitors. It was so good to have them. I was trying to express to them that just the visiting was the special part. Not necessarily what we did, or what we saw, just having them here to validate me and the things I’m trying to do. And letting me know that I’m still semi-normal; no matter how weird I might get in this place. And what they saw was not a neat pretty thing. In some ways, we start over every day. In some ways, it seems we struggle with structure and direction far more that I did in the US. But, they were here to experience it, on the front end. For them to make a special trip, spend tons of money, and take the time to make this trip was sacrificial at many many levels. How great is that!
The crew from S Avenue comes in this next week. That would be 3 of the youth from my urban work there, Tyler, Annie, and Diondra. Plus my favorite friend and sister, Jacynth as the leader! Top top kids, or more like young adults. And it was always my dream from the beginning of the S Avenue work to have kids from that group to come to places like this and help others, and now, by God’s grace, that’s what they’re doing, for the 2nd year in a row. But, what makes this year different is that these kids are spending mostly their own money to come. Not cheap mind you. So what a great blessing to have them.
I move houses just before I leave. It turns out most of my work is right here, hosting in my house, day and night. Just last night, at 9:00PM some guys came by to ask if they could spend the night, hanging out with one another, praying (hopefully). I said sure, gave them a key, and went to bed. Places to just “hang out” around here are pretty uncommon so find the space to do that has been my struggle and search. But it has come down to finding a house versus the duplex apartment I’m in now, where the gang can be as loud as they want to be; come and go as they please (with some boundaries) and just feel welcome. Found some pretty neat options, but sealing a deal in the DR is much harder that it would appear. Communications and setting expectations about renting can be very very difficult. I hope to settle on a place this next 2 weeks.
And then, I’m headed to the USA for 3 weeks. Need to make some decisions about my house in Florida, and basically what I’m going to maintain (or not maintain) in the US. After a year here, I’m pretty much ready to continue to close down shop in the US. Which basically means get rid of more stuff there (house, cars, etc.). Would still like a place to land, perhaps a condo or something, but after a year of being here, I’m not even close to wanting to head back to the US permanently. Not sure where I’m headed but no plans, for now, to camp back toward the United States.
I am planting more roots here. I have purchased land and am planning to start building a home, probably in September when I come back. Land here kind of reminds me of the land I bought up in Canada. Much cheaper than what you’d pay in the States, with building lots right on the ocean front, or in Canada’s case, Lake Michigan. Nothing like that is affordable in the US. So, I’m kinda casting my bread on the water, or the ocean as it were, in the DR.
I must be mad. But, building is one thing I know. And so far, after prayer and counsel, I’m at peace with it. I know it will be incredibly hard, frustrating, and challenging, but hopefully the people I meet along the way and the experiences I will have will be positive. More hard lessons to learn. The irony is that while I’m no expert, with experience with houses in Palm Beach, I at least know a few rules about building near salt water. Funny how things prepare you for the future, even those you least expect. And, I hope at the end of the road, it will be an investment that can be profitable. Finding those in this economy is hard. Like all my houses, it will be for sale as soon as it’s complete. Not that I’m looking to sale it right away, but not looking to fall in love with it either. I may live in the house many years, or no years. Want to buy a house on the ocean front in the DR?
So back to the visitors…. If I do finish this house and if I don’t sell it right after it’s complete, I can highly recommend a good place to visit in the DR. Because it’s an investment, it won’t be small. Room for anyone that wants to come; not to mention quiet with amazing sunsets and ocean views. Here’s an open invitation. (and if you come before it’s finished, bring a hammer or a drill, or a screwdriver!)
This past week, my sisters (Yuvonia and Wanda) and a family friend (Debbie Nickens from Melbourne c/c) came for a visit. Really my first USA visitors. It was so good to have them. I was trying to express to them that just the visiting was the special part. Not necessarily what we did, or what we saw, just having them here to validate me and the things I’m trying to do. And letting me know that I’m still semi-normal; no matter how weird I might get in this place. And what they saw was not a neat pretty thing. In some ways, we start over every day. In some ways, it seems we struggle with structure and direction far more that I did in the US. But, they were here to experience it, on the front end. For them to make a special trip, spend tons of money, and take the time to make this trip was sacrificial at many many levels. How great is that!
The crew from S Avenue comes in this next week. That would be 3 of the youth from my urban work there, Tyler, Annie, and Diondra. Plus my favorite friend and sister, Jacynth as the leader! Top top kids, or more like young adults. And it was always my dream from the beginning of the S Avenue work to have kids from that group to come to places like this and help others, and now, by God’s grace, that’s what they’re doing, for the 2nd year in a row. But, what makes this year different is that these kids are spending mostly their own money to come. Not cheap mind you. So what a great blessing to have them.
I move houses just before I leave. It turns out most of my work is right here, hosting in my house, day and night. Just last night, at 9:00PM some guys came by to ask if they could spend the night, hanging out with one another, praying (hopefully). I said sure, gave them a key, and went to bed. Places to just “hang out” around here are pretty uncommon so find the space to do that has been my struggle and search. But it has come down to finding a house versus the duplex apartment I’m in now, where the gang can be as loud as they want to be; come and go as they please (with some boundaries) and just feel welcome. Found some pretty neat options, but sealing a deal in the DR is much harder that it would appear. Communications and setting expectations about renting can be very very difficult. I hope to settle on a place this next 2 weeks.
And then, I’m headed to the USA for 3 weeks. Need to make some decisions about my house in Florida, and basically what I’m going to maintain (or not maintain) in the US. After a year here, I’m pretty much ready to continue to close down shop in the US. Which basically means get rid of more stuff there (house, cars, etc.). Would still like a place to land, perhaps a condo or something, but after a year of being here, I’m not even close to wanting to head back to the US permanently. Not sure where I’m headed but no plans, for now, to camp back toward the United States.
I am planting more roots here. I have purchased land and am planning to start building a home, probably in September when I come back. Land here kind of reminds me of the land I bought up in Canada. Much cheaper than what you’d pay in the States, with building lots right on the ocean front, or in Canada’s case, Lake Michigan. Nothing like that is affordable in the US. So, I’m kinda casting my bread on the water, or the ocean as it were, in the DR.
I must be mad. But, building is one thing I know. And so far, after prayer and counsel, I’m at peace with it. I know it will be incredibly hard, frustrating, and challenging, but hopefully the people I meet along the way and the experiences I will have will be positive. More hard lessons to learn. The irony is that while I’m no expert, with experience with houses in Palm Beach, I at least know a few rules about building near salt water. Funny how things prepare you for the future, even those you least expect. And, I hope at the end of the road, it will be an investment that can be profitable. Finding those in this economy is hard. Like all my houses, it will be for sale as soon as it’s complete. Not that I’m looking to sale it right away, but not looking to fall in love with it either. I may live in the house many years, or no years. Want to buy a house on the ocean front in the DR?
So back to the visitors…. If I do finish this house and if I don’t sell it right after it’s complete, I can highly recommend a good place to visit in the DR. Because it’s an investment, it won’t be small. Room for anyone that wants to come; not to mention quiet with amazing sunsets and ocean views. Here’s an open invitation. (and if you come before it’s finished, bring a hammer or a drill, or a screwdriver!)
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Fill In the Blank
I can’t begin to describe the feeling of finally having a ______________. And it came with ____________________. Wow, what a blessing!!
For almost an entire day, I’ve not felt _________, or __________, or _______________. I’ve felt almost “normal”, for a day. But only for a day, I’m afraid. The battle is far from over.
I did not fully realize how I was/am someone who’s grown so accustom to ____________. And, how much my physical and mental energy seems to be based on this range of _____________. Within a certain range of “normalcy”, I seem to have more than a sufficient amount of mental and physical energy. But, after weeks and months and now almost a year of being outside of that range, I’m seeing the toll.
And want to hear something so incredibly expected but not? “I knew it was going to be hard, but I did not realize, until I got into this battle, how hard it was going to really be. If I had known ahead of time, I might have made a different choice. Feeling so much like a weakling. And I was even foolish enough to think that if I gave it up willingly, then it would not be a major battle.”
The volume of things I used to accomplish, I don’t. Energy I used to have, I don’t. Motivation I used to have, I don’t. The mental battles that rage. The knowledge of wanting to be thankful for what I do have; the tons of blessings I have. And yet the mental and physical pulling at the discomforts I’m in the middle of based on my prior abandoned life style. The life I willing/happily gave up (at the time). The desire for the discomfort of a lost life style not to win over.
So why the blanks in this blog? Because I think I’m human and certainly not alone. And all of us could say the same thing at one time or another in our lives. Perhaps not the exact same battle. But, when the things we’ve loved, valued, enjoyed, or just grown accustom to be are no longer there, a physical and mental battle ensues. Even if we choose to give them up. People who are gone from our lives; friendships lost. Jobs/careers that are gone. Money that is gone. Material blessings that are gone. Environments now very different. Goals never realized. A life that is gone. And the deeper the loss, the harder the battle, I think.
I think this battle is inevitable. Especially for me here. I think it’s a combination of spiritual, and mental, and physical. Like all battles. Probably like the battles you are having, or just got out of, or are about to go into.
I hope I’m found being thankful. I hope I’m found saying, “the Lord gives and the Lord takes away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” But I admit not always.
But for now, it’s a battle. I’d be lying if I said differently. But I don’t want a “I’m sorry” or sympathy, or anything like that. I guess I just want you to see me as human; no more no less. I’m finding that’s exactly what missionaries are.
Can you guess what the battle is (battles are)? What is (was or will be) yours?
(Yes, I did first write this without blanks, but then realized how unimportant the actual words in the blanks are.)
For almost an entire day, I’ve not felt _________, or __________, or _______________. I’ve felt almost “normal”, for a day. But only for a day, I’m afraid. The battle is far from over.
I did not fully realize how I was/am someone who’s grown so accustom to ____________. And, how much my physical and mental energy seems to be based on this range of _____________. Within a certain range of “normalcy”, I seem to have more than a sufficient amount of mental and physical energy. But, after weeks and months and now almost a year of being outside of that range, I’m seeing the toll.
And want to hear something so incredibly expected but not? “I knew it was going to be hard, but I did not realize, until I got into this battle, how hard it was going to really be. If I had known ahead of time, I might have made a different choice. Feeling so much like a weakling. And I was even foolish enough to think that if I gave it up willingly, then it would not be a major battle.”
The volume of things I used to accomplish, I don’t. Energy I used to have, I don’t. Motivation I used to have, I don’t. The mental battles that rage. The knowledge of wanting to be thankful for what I do have; the tons of blessings I have. And yet the mental and physical pulling at the discomforts I’m in the middle of based on my prior abandoned life style. The life I willing/happily gave up (at the time). The desire for the discomfort of a lost life style not to win over.
So why the blanks in this blog? Because I think I’m human and certainly not alone. And all of us could say the same thing at one time or another in our lives. Perhaps not the exact same battle. But, when the things we’ve loved, valued, enjoyed, or just grown accustom to be are no longer there, a physical and mental battle ensues. Even if we choose to give them up. People who are gone from our lives; friendships lost. Jobs/careers that are gone. Money that is gone. Material blessings that are gone. Environments now very different. Goals never realized. A life that is gone. And the deeper the loss, the harder the battle, I think.
I think this battle is inevitable. Especially for me here. I think it’s a combination of spiritual, and mental, and physical. Like all battles. Probably like the battles you are having, or just got out of, or are about to go into.
I hope I’m found being thankful. I hope I’m found saying, “the Lord gives and the Lord takes away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” But I admit not always.
But for now, it’s a battle. I’d be lying if I said differently. But I don’t want a “I’m sorry” or sympathy, or anything like that. I guess I just want you to see me as human; no more no less. I’m finding that’s exactly what missionaries are.
Can you guess what the battle is (battles are)? What is (was or will be) yours?
(Yes, I did first write this without blanks, but then realized how unimportant the actual words in the blanks are.)
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Building a Foundation
We’re in the middle of building this ever so fragile federation of young men who hope to become, one day, a real music group. My days are mostly filled with things surrounding this group and the “groupies” that have now surrounded them. No small group now. Most Friday nights we have between 20 and 30 people.
It’s not really my hope that they become a great musical group; that’s their hope. My hope is that we’re building a team of young Christians that will hopefully understand ministry and be able to minister at a level that can truly make a difference to those who are seeking, searching. People not so different from myself. But I don't want their ministry to be what you would normally associate with American churches. I'm continue to think we've really missed the boat. I believed it before I got to the DR; I believe it more now that I'm here.
In some ways they already are a music group; in some ways they may never be. They do get together and play music and sing, (every day last week at my house!) but what you might call singing is not quite what most of them do. It seems several are fairly unaware of the notes they can sing, and notes they can’t. It’s really funny at times. I’ll turn to the summer intern, Jacob, and we’ll ask one another, “do they NOT hear that.”. They can be as flat as a pancake, but they belt it out there like it’s pure and smooth. In some ways, it is pure and smooth; because it comes from their hearts. I believe they love the Lord and I believe they have great great hopes.
It’s hard to know how to deal with a group of young people whom you are growing close to, knowing that the hopes they have may never materialize. And, that’s true for so many in third world countries. No, these people are definitely not starving. They generally have food to eat but their lives are nothing like ours. No where near the choices and options we have. Rarely can they choose what school to go to; they can’t choose to travel; can’t choose to move to another town; can’t choose one job over another; can’t choose which of several career paths to take; can’t choose what hobbies to have. Can’t choose what to eat based on cabinets full of food. Can’t choose what clothes to wear based on closets full of clothes. Rarely do they get to choose, because rarely do they have a choice. The one job they may have, is the only job; the meager food they have is the only food; the clothes they have are…. Well, you get the picture.
So, I struggle with the clash between my world and theirs. Is mine better? Is theirs better? Should I hope they change to have more of my world? Should they hope that I change to have more of their world? This I do not know.
I do know that the things that exist in our worlds are the things that consume 80 or 90 percent of our energy. Like our jobs; our schooling, our hobbies, our dreams.
So, as much as they hope, which is the name of the group, hope is really all most of them have. Most of them have had very bad educations, even if they did finish high school. Public schools here in the Dominican are incredibly bad. Most of them will only get a job based on tourism in one form or another. Most of them will probably never be able to afford to buy a car, let alone a house. So, I see these kids (young adults) with futures that are very very limited. And in some ways (the American ways), it breaks my heart to think that most will never have any of the opportunities that I had, or you had (have). In some ways, I look at them and think that if they did have our opportunities, they’d probably make the same bad choices we (I) do. So, now that I have just a bit more of a glimpse into their lives, what truly do I offer them? What should I offer them?
I’ve been in most of their homes. Homes that are mostly shacks. Built very close to one another. Mostly houses that I can only best describe as homes you might have seen in the deep rural south back when all the jobs were agriculture and share cropping. I don’t know what the depression was like in the US, but I have a pretty good idea when walking through their neighborhoods.
The best picture I get of that life style is from my mom. She grew up very poor. But I rarely hear her speak of things she didn’t have. Most of the time, it was the stories of her family, her father in particular, that loved and made a home for her six sibling and her mom. A house full of love springing from her father. I’m sure it wasn’t easy being poor (realitive to American standards) but I’m also now more sure that poor is not a curse. Any more than being rich is a blessing. How you live, rich or poor, is the blessing.
So I’m getting closer to the heart of these guys, and it some ways it gets harder and harder. I can’t begin to know how to help; how to encourage; how to minister. I can’t take one step in their shoes.
Meet Willie. Willie really started the group. And takes his music seriously. Willie is 21. Willie saved probably at least 3 months of salary to buy a guitar and an electronic piano. The first instruments for the group. But, Willie also now has a very low paying job; only works about 3 hours a day selling trinkets to tourist in the countryside. And, dreams of a real music group. And Willie is a hugger. He hugs everyone; all the time. He’ll probably hug you if you come to visit. I’m especially fond of Willie.
Meet Esaul. Esaul is trying to finish high school by going to school at night. During the day, he works with his dad making iron fencing for windows, doors, gates, etc. Esaul plays the guitar; and plays it all the time. But, Esaul likely will work for his father for years to come. And will likely live with his parents for years to come, in a half finished home with interior walls made of cardboard. I’m especially fond of Esaul.
Meet Joelfry. Joelfry has a really sad but typical family story. Joelfry is about 18. Has rarely lived with either of his parents. Gets passed between relatives to live. Joelfry is the lead singer for now. He’s funny; loves to joke; loves to laugh. I don’t have a clue what will happen to Joelfry. He finished high school this year, with nowhere to go. No job; no money for more schooling. But I’m especially fond of Joelfry.
Meet Samuel. Samuel is the drummer. We just got the drums. It was like a dream come true for him. He’s always dreamed of playing the drums. We were afraid he couldn’t. Well, he can. Not sure where he learned, but he’s pretty good for not having access to a set of drums. And, when asked recently of a time he had a real connection with God, he got emotional and said it was when he was able to play the drums we had bought. I’m especially fond of Samuel.
It’s a real fragile group for many reasons. Maybe reasons I’ll go into later. But, for now, they guys are working hard to honor God with their music and their ministry. And, those that hear them are being blessed.
I hope this group can make it through the tough times ahead, and they will continue to have a reason to hope. I also hope that God shows me how to be a blessing in their lives and how I can share all that I’ve been blessed with, with them.
(For those of you who have read “The Shack”, you know why I’m especially fond of these guys; for those of you who haven’t read it; I recommend it. Thanks Rayburn.)
It’s not really my hope that they become a great musical group; that’s their hope. My hope is that we’re building a team of young Christians that will hopefully understand ministry and be able to minister at a level that can truly make a difference to those who are seeking, searching. People not so different from myself. But I don't want their ministry to be what you would normally associate with American churches. I'm continue to think we've really missed the boat. I believed it before I got to the DR; I believe it more now that I'm here.
In some ways they already are a music group; in some ways they may never be. They do get together and play music and sing, (every day last week at my house!) but what you might call singing is not quite what most of them do. It seems several are fairly unaware of the notes they can sing, and notes they can’t. It’s really funny at times. I’ll turn to the summer intern, Jacob, and we’ll ask one another, “do they NOT hear that.”. They can be as flat as a pancake, but they belt it out there like it’s pure and smooth. In some ways, it is pure and smooth; because it comes from their hearts. I believe they love the Lord and I believe they have great great hopes.
It’s hard to know how to deal with a group of young people whom you are growing close to, knowing that the hopes they have may never materialize. And, that’s true for so many in third world countries. No, these people are definitely not starving. They generally have food to eat but their lives are nothing like ours. No where near the choices and options we have. Rarely can they choose what school to go to; they can’t choose to travel; can’t choose to move to another town; can’t choose one job over another; can’t choose which of several career paths to take; can’t choose what hobbies to have. Can’t choose what to eat based on cabinets full of food. Can’t choose what clothes to wear based on closets full of clothes. Rarely do they get to choose, because rarely do they have a choice. The one job they may have, is the only job; the meager food they have is the only food; the clothes they have are…. Well, you get the picture.
So, I struggle with the clash between my world and theirs. Is mine better? Is theirs better? Should I hope they change to have more of my world? Should they hope that I change to have more of their world? This I do not know.
I do know that the things that exist in our worlds are the things that consume 80 or 90 percent of our energy. Like our jobs; our schooling, our hobbies, our dreams.
So, as much as they hope, which is the name of the group, hope is really all most of them have. Most of them have had very bad educations, even if they did finish high school. Public schools here in the Dominican are incredibly bad. Most of them will only get a job based on tourism in one form or another. Most of them will probably never be able to afford to buy a car, let alone a house. So, I see these kids (young adults) with futures that are very very limited. And in some ways (the American ways), it breaks my heart to think that most will never have any of the opportunities that I had, or you had (have). In some ways, I look at them and think that if they did have our opportunities, they’d probably make the same bad choices we (I) do. So, now that I have just a bit more of a glimpse into their lives, what truly do I offer them? What should I offer them?
I’ve been in most of their homes. Homes that are mostly shacks. Built very close to one another. Mostly houses that I can only best describe as homes you might have seen in the deep rural south back when all the jobs were agriculture and share cropping. I don’t know what the depression was like in the US, but I have a pretty good idea when walking through their neighborhoods.
The best picture I get of that life style is from my mom. She grew up very poor. But I rarely hear her speak of things she didn’t have. Most of the time, it was the stories of her family, her father in particular, that loved and made a home for her six sibling and her mom. A house full of love springing from her father. I’m sure it wasn’t easy being poor (realitive to American standards) but I’m also now more sure that poor is not a curse. Any more than being rich is a blessing. How you live, rich or poor, is the blessing.
So I’m getting closer to the heart of these guys, and it some ways it gets harder and harder. I can’t begin to know how to help; how to encourage; how to minister. I can’t take one step in their shoes.
Meet Willie. Willie really started the group. And takes his music seriously. Willie is 21. Willie saved probably at least 3 months of salary to buy a guitar and an electronic piano. The first instruments for the group. But, Willie also now has a very low paying job; only works about 3 hours a day selling trinkets to tourist in the countryside. And, dreams of a real music group. And Willie is a hugger. He hugs everyone; all the time. He’ll probably hug you if you come to visit. I’m especially fond of Willie.
Meet Esaul. Esaul is trying to finish high school by going to school at night. During the day, he works with his dad making iron fencing for windows, doors, gates, etc. Esaul plays the guitar; and plays it all the time. But, Esaul likely will work for his father for years to come. And will likely live with his parents for years to come, in a half finished home with interior walls made of cardboard. I’m especially fond of Esaul.
Meet Joelfry. Joelfry has a really sad but typical family story. Joelfry is about 18. Has rarely lived with either of his parents. Gets passed between relatives to live. Joelfry is the lead singer for now. He’s funny; loves to joke; loves to laugh. I don’t have a clue what will happen to Joelfry. He finished high school this year, with nowhere to go. No job; no money for more schooling. But I’m especially fond of Joelfry.
Meet Samuel. Samuel is the drummer. We just got the drums. It was like a dream come true for him. He’s always dreamed of playing the drums. We were afraid he couldn’t. Well, he can. Not sure where he learned, but he’s pretty good for not having access to a set of drums. And, when asked recently of a time he had a real connection with God, he got emotional and said it was when he was able to play the drums we had bought. I’m especially fond of Samuel.
It’s a real fragile group for many reasons. Maybe reasons I’ll go into later. But, for now, they guys are working hard to honor God with their music and their ministry. And, those that hear them are being blessed.
I hope this group can make it through the tough times ahead, and they will continue to have a reason to hope. I also hope that God shows me how to be a blessing in their lives and how I can share all that I’ve been blessed with, with them.
(For those of you who have read “The Shack”, you know why I’m especially fond of these guys; for those of you who haven’t read it; I recommend it. Thanks Rayburn.)
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
The Work Has Begun, I Think
I think the real work has finally begun. I think that because it really doesn’t feel like work at all. More like what I think God had intended all along. For months I’ve labored endlessly and with much effort to create something that was not to be. And, just when I had decided that all that was planned to be, was not, God starts something. And, the work has begun.
The work is a group of Dominican young men and women (mostly late teens and early twenties; a.k.a. jovenes), and true to form, these young folks don’t really care about my past, or my abilities (including lack of good Spanish language skills). What they really want, and it’s been the repeat story of all the young people I’ve worked with, is someone that can accept them for who they are, care about them, and give them a place in this world to be themselves.
So, that’s what’s happening. And, even with some caution of how quickly things can change here in the DR, I am confident that we have gained a foothold on the work here in Rio San Juan.
Just this past Sunday we had our first band concert. This concert was 45 minutes (by car) out from the village of Rio San Juan, and I’m honored and proud to say that we had about 100 people (mostly young kids and young adults) to come and hear the band play and sing. An excellent crowd for a tiny tiny spot of a placed called Bobita.
This blog will be like all the rest, way too long and way too detailed, but for the faithful few readers, it gives you an idea of what’s happening. First, as the “manager” of the band, my hope and wish, and instructions, is for them to practice, practice, practice. And then for them to use their music to touch people’s lives. Did they, while I was gone to the US?… Beyond my wildest hopes. They have demonstrated a dedication and seriousness to their efforts; the likes of which I don’t see a lot of either here or in the US from young people.
Now, I have to be honest to say that this is a very young band, and frankly some of the talent is not professional by any stretch of the imagination, but they sing with the hearts, and laugh, and have a great time. For what they don’t have in talent, they make up in just enjoying being with each other.
One of the things that I gave up when I sold my big home in Florida was my ability to host people in my home. And, it’s the only only only thing I might miss about my home in Florida. Well, I now have a simple small apartment in the DR, by any US standards, but it has become a new place for me to allow these kids to hang out. A new place to host. And, that’s what we’re doing. Hanging out, just hanging out. But having a great time together. (By the way, my apartment, by Rio San Juan native standards, is luxurious.)
I offered to take them (the group) all to a restaurant after the concert; even offered to pay for the meal. What did they prefer?… to go to my house and cook pancakes and fried salami and just entertain one another with jokes and stories. So, that’s what we did after the concert; we called it the “after party”. It was (if I can be really corny for a moment) a pure honor to have these kids (I call them that, even though kids is not quite what they are) in my home, literally rolling in the floor laughing so hard. This went on for several hours. And for hours I just sat there, and mostly listening to their jokes and their laughter, and watched them make home movies they made with my digital camera, and soaked up every moment.
And, as much as I hated to dismiss the crowd, I feared we’d be up all night unless I closed the party down. So, I did, after 4 hours.
Now, a day later, I look back and wonder how many purely incredible days I will have in the Dominican. Perhaps not many, but yesterday was one. It was work, and it was a lot of preparation. From logistics of transportation, creating our own electric energy, toting sound equipment and instruments, and a car pack with 8 people down a long road, that’s hardly worthy to be called a road; not to mention the heat. But, the destination was well worth it. It was one amazing event and after party. Thank you Lord.
Yep, the work has begun. And, attached are some pictures of the group. The group asked me to give the group a name, so I did, which is Esperanza, which means “Hope”. “Mientras hay vida hay esperanza” (translation; "Where there is life, there is hope".)
The work is a group of Dominican young men and women (mostly late teens and early twenties; a.k.a. jovenes), and true to form, these young folks don’t really care about my past, or my abilities (including lack of good Spanish language skills). What they really want, and it’s been the repeat story of all the young people I’ve worked with, is someone that can accept them for who they are, care about them, and give them a place in this world to be themselves.
So, that’s what’s happening. And, even with some caution of how quickly things can change here in the DR, I am confident that we have gained a foothold on the work here in Rio San Juan.
Just this past Sunday we had our first band concert. This concert was 45 minutes (by car) out from the village of Rio San Juan, and I’m honored and proud to say that we had about 100 people (mostly young kids and young adults) to come and hear the band play and sing. An excellent crowd for a tiny tiny spot of a placed called Bobita.
This blog will be like all the rest, way too long and way too detailed, but for the faithful few readers, it gives you an idea of what’s happening. First, as the “manager” of the band, my hope and wish, and instructions, is for them to practice, practice, practice. And then for them to use their music to touch people’s lives. Did they, while I was gone to the US?… Beyond my wildest hopes. They have demonstrated a dedication and seriousness to their efforts; the likes of which I don’t see a lot of either here or in the US from young people.
Now, I have to be honest to say that this is a very young band, and frankly some of the talent is not professional by any stretch of the imagination, but they sing with the hearts, and laugh, and have a great time. For what they don’t have in talent, they make up in just enjoying being with each other.
One of the things that I gave up when I sold my big home in Florida was my ability to host people in my home. And, it’s the only only only thing I might miss about my home in Florida. Well, I now have a simple small apartment in the DR, by any US standards, but it has become a new place for me to allow these kids to hang out. A new place to host. And, that’s what we’re doing. Hanging out, just hanging out. But having a great time together. (By the way, my apartment, by Rio San Juan native standards, is luxurious.)
I offered to take them (the group) all to a restaurant after the concert; even offered to pay for the meal. What did they prefer?… to go to my house and cook pancakes and fried salami and just entertain one another with jokes and stories. So, that’s what we did after the concert; we called it the “after party”. It was (if I can be really corny for a moment) a pure honor to have these kids (I call them that, even though kids is not quite what they are) in my home, literally rolling in the floor laughing so hard. This went on for several hours. And for hours I just sat there, and mostly listening to their jokes and their laughter, and watched them make home movies they made with my digital camera, and soaked up every moment.
And, as much as I hated to dismiss the crowd, I feared we’d be up all night unless I closed the party down. So, I did, after 4 hours.
Now, a day later, I look back and wonder how many purely incredible days I will have in the Dominican. Perhaps not many, but yesterday was one. It was work, and it was a lot of preparation. From logistics of transportation, creating our own electric energy, toting sound equipment and instruments, and a car pack with 8 people down a long road, that’s hardly worthy to be called a road; not to mention the heat. But, the destination was well worth it. It was one amazing event and after party. Thank you Lord.
Yep, the work has begun. And, attached are some pictures of the group. The group asked me to give the group a name, so I did, which is Esperanza, which means “Hope”. “Mientras hay vida hay esperanza” (translation; "Where there is life, there is hope".)
Thursday, May 1, 2008
One Last Post Before I Go to the USA
Just wanted to share one more picture. Because it kinda represents some things we are hoping will happen here. I'm finding, for a lot of reasons, I probably won't be able to have the deep relationships I've had in the US. Culture; language; money... many many reasons. But, what I can do is possibly facilitate others in developing those relationships. Specifically the guys that are meeting in my house hopefully will be willing to be mentored and guided in how to do help the teenagers. Not that I know how, but I'm trying to learn. So, if we do it together, perhaps they will be able to reach those I can not. And, I'm watching one of these guys, William, rapping at my house with some Christian songs (raps... whatever they call them), and these three kids (teenagers) immediately tune in to him and his music. And, then join in. So, this is a snapshot of where we hope we're headed. Maybe a long shot and along road, but it's hope.
Also, we just got an invitation to start helping at the local school. I wanted to take pictures. You could NOT believe the conditions of this school. But, we've been asked to help... so I hope it opens more doors on how to serve.
A few things that are fresh and good and hopeful, as I leave for the USA.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
New Beginnings
Celebrated Osvaldo's birthday with a "cake".
Not sure where this group is headed; maybe; maybe not, but it's started none the less. Here are shots of one of their first meetings at my house.
More Important than Property
I decided that I can’t sit around waiting to start building a resource center, so I started inviting some folks over to my house. Targeting young adults. Figuring they were not too broken to refuse to be molded into giving, caring adults. And, so far, my ‘figuring’ has been correct.
I met these guys through my assistance/helper/friend Osvaldo. And, they have been a blessing. They seem anxious to help. They just need a shot; and need to be tapped on the shoulder and say “hey, I need your help; here’s how I need your help”. Which, by the way, is a summary of my philosophy on getting people to help. People are wanting to, it’s just a matter of time and training and encouraging.
So, I’m hosting a gathering every week for them to play their music (which is the forum for them to express themselves) and dream dreams of changing their world. Willie, William, Saul, Joelfry, Samuel, Osvaldo, and Jeffrey are the original crew, but each time we meet, the crew gets bigger.
So, we’ll see what God has in mind. Last night we were hanging out on my back porch, them laughing and telling jokes in Spanish. Me pretending to understand, but the thing that was clear was that they were having a good time. We had invited some younger kids to hang out with them, and I think it did them all some good to be around one another. I’m hoping they’ll take the ball and run with more ministry to one another. I am convinced I may never know Spanish well enough to be in the middle of their jokes, but just to recline on a chair and watch them try to top one another with comedy was pretty funny, even if I didn’t understand Spanish. The next step will be toward service. Learning how to serve and who to serve. A challenge for all of us. But, if you knew the kids of this town and how broken they are at so many levels, you’d understand the need for a team of locals to hopefully step up and serve. I’m hoping and praying this group is part of that beginning. We’ll see. (see the photos posted of one of their jam sessions)
I met these guys through my assistance/helper/friend Osvaldo. And, they have been a blessing. They seem anxious to help. They just need a shot; and need to be tapped on the shoulder and say “hey, I need your help; here’s how I need your help”. Which, by the way, is a summary of my philosophy on getting people to help. People are wanting to, it’s just a matter of time and training and encouraging.
So, I’m hosting a gathering every week for them to play their music (which is the forum for them to express themselves) and dream dreams of changing their world. Willie, William, Saul, Joelfry, Samuel, Osvaldo, and Jeffrey are the original crew, but each time we meet, the crew gets bigger.
So, we’ll see what God has in mind. Last night we were hanging out on my back porch, them laughing and telling jokes in Spanish. Me pretending to understand, but the thing that was clear was that they were having a good time. We had invited some younger kids to hang out with them, and I think it did them all some good to be around one another. I’m hoping they’ll take the ball and run with more ministry to one another. I am convinced I may never know Spanish well enough to be in the middle of their jokes, but just to recline on a chair and watch them try to top one another with comedy was pretty funny, even if I didn’t understand Spanish. The next step will be toward service. Learning how to serve and who to serve. A challenge for all of us. But, if you knew the kids of this town and how broken they are at so many levels, you’d understand the need for a team of locals to hopefully step up and serve. I’m hoping and praying this group is part of that beginning. We’ll see. (see the photos posted of one of their jam sessions)
Catching up on Updates
First, the property. I know it gets redundant but we still have no resolution. We have found new property we’re interested in, but the cost is like 3 times what the original property was. It is in a much much better location as far as value is concerned, but raising the original cost was going to be a challenge, this changes the whole dynamic again, and sets a new bar for financing. Not to mention, we still don’t have the paper work on this property as well; not a final price; attorney’s again trying to scam us. I don’t want to be jaded by this type of thing, but it’s so incredibly challenging to want to do good; to want to see the betterment of a community (at many levels), but feeling like the community itself (at least those in power) having no interest. The common folks are all behind and support us as best they can, but they don’t hold the purse strings in the town, so are really powerless to fight the culture of indifference toward the poor.
We approached some of the more influential town folks and their response was basically that they were glad of what we were doing, but offered no substantive help. There’s a reason these places are considered 3rd world and I think a lot of it is because those in power want to remain in power and pass the power to their family exclusively. Forget the stranger.
But, we’re not about to give it. It’s just the battle. And it’s worth it. And I’m honored to fight and be called to fight for those who can’t otherwise have a voice. And, I’m honored to be fighting among some incredible team members. Some whom have seen more battles and tougher battles that I’ll ever see. (that’s the Wallace's and Roberta Edwards to name a few.) So, hats off to them. I appreciated them from a distance, but to see a small portion of their world, even more respect and honor for their amazing commitments.
We approached some of the more influential town folks and their response was basically that they were glad of what we were doing, but offered no substantive help. There’s a reason these places are considered 3rd world and I think a lot of it is because those in power want to remain in power and pass the power to their family exclusively. Forget the stranger.
But, we’re not about to give it. It’s just the battle. And it’s worth it. And I’m honored to fight and be called to fight for those who can’t otherwise have a voice. And, I’m honored to be fighting among some incredible team members. Some whom have seen more battles and tougher battles that I’ll ever see. (that’s the Wallace's and Roberta Edwards to name a few.) So, hats off to them. I appreciated them from a distance, but to see a small portion of their world, even more respect and honor for their amazing commitments.
Headed Home In Less Than A Week
Wow, it’s hard to believe I’ll again be back home for a few weeks starting next Saturday.
This job (or whatever you call it) is really weird in that the days and weeks all run together. In the US, it seems that a particular day or time is very important. Here, the particular day seems to be of no significance. Many people don’t work so weekends mean nothing; others work all the time, so weekends are not important. Sundays are not a huge deal here either, it seems.
I’m going back for two reasons. The first (in no particular order) is to be at Luckson’s graduation. For those of you that don’t know; Luckson is a guy I met in Haiti around 7 years ago. An awesome guy. But, almost 4 years ago now, (wow!) we were able to get him to a university in the US to study under-grad med/clinic stuff. (whatever you call it). Well, he’s graduating. My little brother (as I call him) is not so little anymore (in many ways!) He’s been accepted to optometry school and will start that this fall (if I have my info correct). Really looking forward to seeing him and the crew (slew) of people that have been there for him to see him cross the graduation stage.
And, my oldest sister (Blyth) is finishing RN school, at the age of 50. I’m 43. And frankly can’t imagine the struggle of having to learn an entire new discipline. I basically tried a little by going to language school, but if that were any indication of the challenge, I would have flunked RN school real quick. But she didn’t. It was an unbelievable challenge, but she stuck it through. Sometime, in my opinion, that is so rare for “older” adults. And, I’m very very proud of her. So, my family is going to her “pinning”. Good times ahead!
This job (or whatever you call it) is really weird in that the days and weeks all run together. In the US, it seems that a particular day or time is very important. Here, the particular day seems to be of no significance. Many people don’t work so weekends mean nothing; others work all the time, so weekends are not important. Sundays are not a huge deal here either, it seems.
I’m going back for two reasons. The first (in no particular order) is to be at Luckson’s graduation. For those of you that don’t know; Luckson is a guy I met in Haiti around 7 years ago. An awesome guy. But, almost 4 years ago now, (wow!) we were able to get him to a university in the US to study under-grad med/clinic stuff. (whatever you call it). Well, he’s graduating. My little brother (as I call him) is not so little anymore (in many ways!) He’s been accepted to optometry school and will start that this fall (if I have my info correct). Really looking forward to seeing him and the crew (slew) of people that have been there for him to see him cross the graduation stage.
And, my oldest sister (Blyth) is finishing RN school, at the age of 50. I’m 43. And frankly can’t imagine the struggle of having to learn an entire new discipline. I basically tried a little by going to language school, but if that were any indication of the challenge, I would have flunked RN school real quick. But she didn’t. It was an unbelievable challenge, but she stuck it through. Sometime, in my opinion, that is so rare for “older” adults. And, I’m very very proud of her. So, my family is going to her “pinning”. Good times ahead!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Old Is New Again; Old Answers New Answers
Getting lost in what has happened these past few weeks; and the fog that surrounds has made me wonder what's going on, what I'm doing here, and where we go from here. But then the light breaks for a moment, and really the answer is simple. Rather I like it or not. And to borrow the songs from an oldy but goody song of the (what?) 80's, maybe 70's.
Reading the lyrics may not due the mood justice, but there are some words that are really really close to capturing where I'm at. Forgive me if it's corny. But, it helps me refocus on what I'm doing and why. Not really based on purchase (or failure of) property; or so many other things that go array, and have. I hope that I can somehow refocus on what I'm truly here to do. That's my hope and prayer. (and this would be so much better, if England Dan and John Ford Coley were singing in the background)....
Name your price
A ticket to paradise
I can't stay here any more
And I've looked high and low
I've been from shore to shore to shore
If there's a short cut I'd have found it
But there's no easy way around it
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
Who knows why
Someday we all must die
We're all homeless boys and girls
And we are never heard
It's such a lonely world
People turn their heads and walk on by
Tell me, is it worth just another try?
Tell me, are we alive, or just a dying planet?
What are the chances?
Ask the man in your heart for the answers
And when you feel afraid, love one another
When you've lost your way, love one another
When you're all alone, love one another
When you're far from home, love one another
When you're down and out, love one another
All your hope's run out, love one another
When you need a friend, love one another
When you're near the end, love one another
We've got to love one another
Light of the world, you've got to shine
Love will be a means
Shine on us all
Know that love can save the day
Just give it one more chance
Lord you just can't let it stop Lord
Love is the answer
Got to be free to let love into your life
Let it shine
Reading the lyrics may not due the mood justice, but there are some words that are really really close to capturing where I'm at. Forgive me if it's corny. But, it helps me refocus on what I'm doing and why. Not really based on purchase (or failure of) property; or so many other things that go array, and have. I hope that I can somehow refocus on what I'm truly here to do. That's my hope and prayer. (and this would be so much better, if England Dan and John Ford Coley were singing in the background)....
Name your price
A ticket to paradise
I can't stay here any more
And I've looked high and low
I've been from shore to shore to shore
If there's a short cut I'd have found it
But there's no easy way around it
Light of the world, shine on me
Love is the answer
Shine on us all, set us free
Love is the answer
Who knows why
Someday we all must die
We're all homeless boys and girls
And we are never heard
It's such a lonely world
People turn their heads and walk on by
Tell me, is it worth just another try?
Tell me, are we alive, or just a dying planet?
What are the chances?
Ask the man in your heart for the answers
And when you feel afraid, love one another
When you've lost your way, love one another
When you're all alone, love one another
When you're far from home, love one another
When you're down and out, love one another
All your hope's run out, love one another
When you need a friend, love one another
When you're near the end, love one another
We've got to love one another
Light of the world, you've got to shine
Love will be a means
Shine on us all
Know that love can save the day
Just give it one more chance
Lord you just can't let it stop Lord
Love is the answer
Got to be free to let love into your life
Let it shine
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Mystery Question With No Answer
What was the question that was so misrepresented by the company that owned the property we were considering buying to build the outreach center?
“In the company that is selling the property, has there been any additions, changes, or removal of any company members. Specifically, has anyone that was a part of the company died?” (I promise this question was asked over and over from start to finish for 2 months!)
And what was their answer the first time two months ago, and the same answer they kept giving up until a week ago. They kept saying “NO”, no changes. Time and time again we asked, and they consistently said NO. But, when our attorney found out that indeed THREE people in the company had died, we asked them “Have 3 people in the company died?” And their answer, 2 months later now that we know the answer they say, “Oh, yes, three have died.”
Why was that such a big deal? Simple, ANY heirs to the 3 members that have died can lay claim to the property at ANY time. The company has made no attempt to finalize the estate of the 3 members that have died. And, to make that attempt now would take a long long time, years possibly. So, anytime it’s sold, the heirs of those 3 that have died can go back and lay claim to the property, even after the company sells it. So, we could buy the property and build on it, and it be taken from us based on a legal and legitimate claim (by Dominican law) by the heirs of these 3 former company members.
But, the sad thing is that after search for alternative properties, it seems that they ALL have the same issue. No such thing as "clear title" in this country and no such thing as "title insurance". So you truly have to rely on God for His guidance, and trust that if you buy property, God will allow you to use it for as long as He needs, and then you may lose it. The reality of this country. Yuk!
“In the company that is selling the property, has there been any additions, changes, or removal of any company members. Specifically, has anyone that was a part of the company died?” (I promise this question was asked over and over from start to finish for 2 months!)
And what was their answer the first time two months ago, and the same answer they kept giving up until a week ago. They kept saying “NO”, no changes. Time and time again we asked, and they consistently said NO. But, when our attorney found out that indeed THREE people in the company had died, we asked them “Have 3 people in the company died?” And their answer, 2 months later now that we know the answer they say, “Oh, yes, three have died.”
Why was that such a big deal? Simple, ANY heirs to the 3 members that have died can lay claim to the property at ANY time. The company has made no attempt to finalize the estate of the 3 members that have died. And, to make that attempt now would take a long long time, years possibly. So, anytime it’s sold, the heirs of those 3 that have died can go back and lay claim to the property, even after the company sells it. So, we could buy the property and build on it, and it be taken from us based on a legal and legitimate claim (by Dominican law) by the heirs of these 3 former company members.
But, the sad thing is that after search for alternative properties, it seems that they ALL have the same issue. No such thing as "clear title" in this country and no such thing as "title insurance". So you truly have to rely on God for His guidance, and trust that if you buy property, God will allow you to use it for as long as He needs, and then you may lose it. The reality of this country. Yuk!
Two Major Cultural Issues – Lessons the Hard Way
If truth is not truth in the eyes of the beholder. And a person is not able to say “I’m sorry”, what basis of brokenness and truth can you rely on?
I personally believe that brokenness is the foundation of my faith. Realizing that I’m broken and desparately need help from God is primary. I need someone to save me.
And, then, after making steps toward God, I believe He calls me to truth. Even (and often) when I don’t live truth, He still calls me to truth. But, if truth is absent or void in my mind, where do you start to heal, and correct, and grow?
Are these two primary issues truly warped or void here? Is “I’m Sorry” not possible in this cultural. Is truth really not here? I find it impossible to believe. But, it is a question I will begin to search out. And will likely have my heart broken in the process.
I personally believe that brokenness is the foundation of my faith. Realizing that I’m broken and desparately need help from God is primary. I need someone to save me.
And, then, after making steps toward God, I believe He calls me to truth. Even (and often) when I don’t live truth, He still calls me to truth. But, if truth is absent or void in my mind, where do you start to heal, and correct, and grow?
Are these two primary issues truly warped or void here? Is “I’m Sorry” not possible in this cultural. Is truth really not here? I find it impossible to believe. But, it is a question I will begin to search out. And will likely have my heart broken in the process.
When Your Best Isn't Good Enough PART 3
(Why 3 parts?; because this blog is just TOO LONG. So, I will break up these long posts to ease the reader's pain.)
My best wasn’t good enough to preserve a friendship with Paul & Marsil’s mother, Nidia. At least not for now. I look back and I’m not sure that I’m not trying to change someone who is who she is. More cultural lessons. The hard way.
Nidia is stubborn and willful and prideful. Which can be good and can be bad. And she’s also Dominican. Which can be good and can be bad. And saying and truly meaning, “I’m sorry” is something that, based on what I hear from others, is a rarity in this country. I cannot say that is my personal experience since this is the first time that I know of the need for someone to accept responsibility and some level of being sorry for their actions.
But, if all the above is true, what energy should be wasted on trying to explain why and how a misunderstanding and wrong actions all happened. And what could be done to heal beyond what was already attempted. And would the 2nd attempt to heal make things even worse than they are now. Is it now best just to walk away and say thank you for the great memories?
Nidia is still a good person and I have fond memories of her as a host when I was in Santiago. But to expect “changes” from her is truly unrealistic and possibly even unfair. She is who she is and she was born here, not the US, so I see, though I don’t like, where she’s coming from. I think it hurts her more and holds her back from many things, but I also don’t feel I’m the one to try to “fix” all that. So, I’m letting go.
My best wasn’t good enough to preserve a friendship with Paul & Marsil’s mother, Nidia. At least not for now. I look back and I’m not sure that I’m not trying to change someone who is who she is. More cultural lessons. The hard way.
Nidia is stubborn and willful and prideful. Which can be good and can be bad. And she’s also Dominican. Which can be good and can be bad. And saying and truly meaning, “I’m sorry” is something that, based on what I hear from others, is a rarity in this country. I cannot say that is my personal experience since this is the first time that I know of the need for someone to accept responsibility and some level of being sorry for their actions.
But, if all the above is true, what energy should be wasted on trying to explain why and how a misunderstanding and wrong actions all happened. And what could be done to heal beyond what was already attempted. And would the 2nd attempt to heal make things even worse than they are now. Is it now best just to walk away and say thank you for the great memories?
Nidia is still a good person and I have fond memories of her as a host when I was in Santiago. But to expect “changes” from her is truly unrealistic and possibly even unfair. She is who she is and she was born here, not the US, so I see, though I don’t like, where she’s coming from. I think it hurts her more and holds her back from many things, but I also don’t feel I’m the one to try to “fix” all that. So, I’m letting go.
When Your Best Isn't Good Enough PART 2
Our best wasn’t good enough to get the property we had hoped to build the new resource center. After 2 months of asking all the right questions, we just now realized we were getting all the wrong answers. We were getting answers that simply were not correct. When the true answers were discovered, we have had to pretty much put a hold on purchasing that particular property. (see more detail, if you want, on the next blog)
And the thing is…. You look back and ask yourself, what could I have asked any more clearly? How did they (the company representatives – 3 of them that were selling the property) possibly misunderstand our questions the first time, or even the fourth time when we asked the same question over and over; and got the same wrong answer over and over?
And if I’m going to get answers that are untrue like this all the time, what foundation of truth can I rely on regarding anything here. When I asked our translator how it could have all been so wrong, he didn’t have an answer. Neither do I.
And I’m finding that thus is the culture here. Truth is even more “realitive” here than in the US; at least so it seems.
I’m okay with (I can deal with) any answer, as long as it’s truth. But to miss the truth entirely and for them to not even realize the mistruths they have spoken I don’t know where to go from here. I think it’s my first true cultural clash. More to come!
Lest I sound so high and mighty, I do not speak truth 100% either. But, I do believe (or I used to believe) that I at least know when I’m not speaking truth. And, with that knowledge (the law) I can speak truth when I choose to. If people don’t know truth, how can they tell the difference between truth and lies? Isn’t our whole foundation of good and bad based on a premise of truth and lies; right and wrong?
I truly don’t believe the people that misrepresented the issues about the property even understand that they didn’t tell the truth. It has really been very discouraging. I’m not judging them; I’m trying to understand them and I don’t. Talk about a lesson in culture!
And the thing is…. You look back and ask yourself, what could I have asked any more clearly? How did they (the company representatives – 3 of them that were selling the property) possibly misunderstand our questions the first time, or even the fourth time when we asked the same question over and over; and got the same wrong answer over and over?
And if I’m going to get answers that are untrue like this all the time, what foundation of truth can I rely on regarding anything here. When I asked our translator how it could have all been so wrong, he didn’t have an answer. Neither do I.
And I’m finding that thus is the culture here. Truth is even more “realitive” here than in the US; at least so it seems.
I’m okay with (I can deal with) any answer, as long as it’s truth. But to miss the truth entirely and for them to not even realize the mistruths they have spoken I don’t know where to go from here. I think it’s my first true cultural clash. More to come!
Lest I sound so high and mighty, I do not speak truth 100% either. But, I do believe (or I used to believe) that I at least know when I’m not speaking truth. And, with that knowledge (the law) I can speak truth when I choose to. If people don’t know truth, how can they tell the difference between truth and lies? Isn’t our whole foundation of good and bad based on a premise of truth and lies; right and wrong?
I truly don’t believe the people that misrepresented the issues about the property even understand that they didn’t tell the truth. It has really been very discouraging. I’m not judging them; I’m trying to understand them and I don’t. Talk about a lesson in culture!
When Your Best Isn’t Good Enough PART 1
(Why 3 parts?; because this blog is just TOO LONG. So, I will break up these long posts to ease the reader's pain.)
I said good bye to John Sanders last week. I helped him pack his bags and leave my home to catch his plane back to the US, knowing he was out last real hope of finding Shane Ruiz’s body. John’s from non-profit group that specializes in search-recovery of bodies that are in water (lakes, rivers, oceans, etc.). (He has personally been involved in the recovery over 600 bodies! Extremely well qualified.) After an exhausted search with some of the latest technical equipment, we have found nothing. And our exhaustion is more than physical.
But that can’t compare to the fatigue the family has felt and will continue to feel for months and years to come; fatigue from the pain of loosing their son. Pain from perhaps never finding his body.
But, our best wasn’t good enough. I had to call the family and tell them that we won’t be sending their son’s body home. At least not now. Our only hope now is that perhaps a fisherman will find him. We can’t.
I said good bye to John Sanders last week. I helped him pack his bags and leave my home to catch his plane back to the US, knowing he was out last real hope of finding Shane Ruiz’s body. John’s from non-profit group that specializes in search-recovery of bodies that are in water (lakes, rivers, oceans, etc.). (He has personally been involved in the recovery over 600 bodies! Extremely well qualified.) After an exhausted search with some of the latest technical equipment, we have found nothing. And our exhaustion is more than physical.
But that can’t compare to the fatigue the family has felt and will continue to feel for months and years to come; fatigue from the pain of loosing their son. Pain from perhaps never finding his body.
But, our best wasn’t good enough. I had to call the family and tell them that we won’t be sending their son’s body home. At least not now. Our only hope now is that perhaps a fisherman will find him. We can’t.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Getting Tough
Things turned hard almost immediately after I arrived back.
(Keep in mind, the first section of this information occurred when I was not here, Wednesday, the day before I arrived, so my information is not to be relied on; only what I think I gathered from others.)
There was a college group in from Freed-Hardeman University. The group was at the beach on Wednesday (I arrived Thursday). Warnings were up at the beach not to swim, but there were some swimmers in the water. However, the FHU group was not swimming. There were some that were wading in water from knee deep to waist deep. A large unexpected wave came in and swept 3 boys (men) out without warning. Extraordinarily high and intense waves. Two were able to struggle back to shore after a major effort. One, Shane Ruiz, despite fighting to get back, could not. He was swept out to sea. Hours of rescue attempt and with the risk of others that dove in to save Shane were of no avail. Attempts for almost 10 days to retrieve his body have been unsuccessful.
I arrived back to Rio San Juan on Friday to a broken group of missionaries. And, the process began for family members to arrive; and a search to recover Shane’s body.
I have been involved in supporting and helping where I can, if I can. The family (parents, girlfriend, etc.) arrived around the same time I did. It of course has been unspeakably painful from them. Not only the tragedy, but as of now (Sunday), still no sign of the body either.
We have 2 more days of an expert recovery specialist from the US has come in to us Sonar to try to find him, but it does not look good. We are all praying that the Lord releases the body back to his family for them to have a little closure.
Most of you know of my experience in Africa with the loss of the boy when we were in Zambia. Many things remind me of that situation. I remember how difficult it was to move forward. I think many of the missionaries are feeling the same as we did that time.
And, during this whole process, Satan is at work attempting to break spirits and destroy the efforts of many good people that have been working for many years to bring some hope to this area. This blog is probably not the right forum for the details, but suffice to say that we all need a lot of prayer and hope (spiritual hope) that God will heal.
Also, during this incident, Marsil Paul and Nidia came to visit. The day after they arrived, I assisted the family with others arriving at the airport and was not with them that day. They decided to leave RSJ early and head back to Santiago. But, they also decided to take all the food I had purchased for their visit, with them, without telling me, or asking me. I arrived back that evening, hoping to fix a sandwich before bed and discovered that all the food I had bought for their visit was gone. I called Nidia to ask why she had taken it. I told her it was not appropriate to take it without telling me. I said I would be happy to give anything to her, but to take it without asking was not right. She basically handled it as I should have expected. Got hot tempered; angry, and without any thinking started yelling and screaming over the phone.
This was my friend whom I now have lost. Not unlike the stereotypes that I had to make of Latino women. Long story short, she has decided that we cannot be friends any more. I regret she feels that way, but I don’t regret letting her know that her actions were hurtful to me. If I could not be honest in my feelings then it was probably not a long term friendship anyway. My biggest regret is the lost of my relationship with Paul and Marsil. I enjoyed a good relationship of love and friendship. That will be almost impossible at this point.
I pray God heals that situation as well. But, I also have minimal expectations that I will be able to truly understand or be understood with Nidia. More cultural walls to climb.
And, lastly, the property we were about to purchase has fallen through. For various reasons, we are unable to move forward because of the need for company papers from the seller that are not being given to us. We cannot afford to purchase property that does not have clear title, and in the DR, there is no such thing as title insurance. Many foreigners get cheated out of their money because they do not get proper documentation for property purchases. We are trying to avoid that, and thus, cannot move forward. So, we are back to square one in the property search.
There were be good weeks and bad weeks. This was a pretty bad week in many ways. Almost everything that was moving forward has either fallen, or stalled.
As of now, I’m not too down. Yes, a little sadden by all the events, but I’m also confident that I only want what God wants. And I’m counting on Him showing me what’s best. Not me trying to figure that out.
(Keep in mind, the first section of this information occurred when I was not here, Wednesday, the day before I arrived, so my information is not to be relied on; only what I think I gathered from others.)
There was a college group in from Freed-Hardeman University. The group was at the beach on Wednesday (I arrived Thursday). Warnings were up at the beach not to swim, but there were some swimmers in the water. However, the FHU group was not swimming. There were some that were wading in water from knee deep to waist deep. A large unexpected wave came in and swept 3 boys (men) out without warning. Extraordinarily high and intense waves. Two were able to struggle back to shore after a major effort. One, Shane Ruiz, despite fighting to get back, could not. He was swept out to sea. Hours of rescue attempt and with the risk of others that dove in to save Shane were of no avail. Attempts for almost 10 days to retrieve his body have been unsuccessful.
I arrived back to Rio San Juan on Friday to a broken group of missionaries. And, the process began for family members to arrive; and a search to recover Shane’s body.
I have been involved in supporting and helping where I can, if I can. The family (parents, girlfriend, etc.) arrived around the same time I did. It of course has been unspeakably painful from them. Not only the tragedy, but as of now (Sunday), still no sign of the body either.
We have 2 more days of an expert recovery specialist from the US has come in to us Sonar to try to find him, but it does not look good. We are all praying that the Lord releases the body back to his family for them to have a little closure.
Most of you know of my experience in Africa with the loss of the boy when we were in Zambia. Many things remind me of that situation. I remember how difficult it was to move forward. I think many of the missionaries are feeling the same as we did that time.
And, during this whole process, Satan is at work attempting to break spirits and destroy the efforts of many good people that have been working for many years to bring some hope to this area. This blog is probably not the right forum for the details, but suffice to say that we all need a lot of prayer and hope (spiritual hope) that God will heal.
Also, during this incident, Marsil Paul and Nidia came to visit. The day after they arrived, I assisted the family with others arriving at the airport and was not with them that day. They decided to leave RSJ early and head back to Santiago. But, they also decided to take all the food I had purchased for their visit, with them, without telling me, or asking me. I arrived back that evening, hoping to fix a sandwich before bed and discovered that all the food I had bought for their visit was gone. I called Nidia to ask why she had taken it. I told her it was not appropriate to take it without telling me. I said I would be happy to give anything to her, but to take it without asking was not right. She basically handled it as I should have expected. Got hot tempered; angry, and without any thinking started yelling and screaming over the phone.
This was my friend whom I now have lost. Not unlike the stereotypes that I had to make of Latino women. Long story short, she has decided that we cannot be friends any more. I regret she feels that way, but I don’t regret letting her know that her actions were hurtful to me. If I could not be honest in my feelings then it was probably not a long term friendship anyway. My biggest regret is the lost of my relationship with Paul and Marsil. I enjoyed a good relationship of love and friendship. That will be almost impossible at this point.
I pray God heals that situation as well. But, I also have minimal expectations that I will be able to truly understand or be understood with Nidia. More cultural walls to climb.
And, lastly, the property we were about to purchase has fallen through. For various reasons, we are unable to move forward because of the need for company papers from the seller that are not being given to us. We cannot afford to purchase property that does not have clear title, and in the DR, there is no such thing as title insurance. Many foreigners get cheated out of their money because they do not get proper documentation for property purchases. We are trying to avoid that, and thus, cannot move forward. So, we are back to square one in the property search.
There were be good weeks and bad weeks. This was a pretty bad week in many ways. Almost everything that was moving forward has either fallen, or stalled.
As of now, I’m not too down. Yes, a little sadden by all the events, but I’m also confident that I only want what God wants. And I’m counting on Him showing me what’s best. Not me trying to figure that out.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Back in the DR, Almost
At least on my way. And, it feels good, and strange, as usual. Each time, I slip the surly bonds of the US, and fly into the DR, to touch the "other" face of God (to borrow from a Reagan speech, or more like a Reagan speechwriter's speech) the experience seems to always offer anticipation, caution, and excitement.
I remember when I had a home up in Canada. Each time I stayed at my home in Canada, I felt, not quite Canadian, but close to it. At least I felt at home there. Even for brief moments. But then, like going through a magic transporter, when I was back in Florida, it was a different life all together. Two worlds tied together, but each unique.
That's basically the case with my life in the DR and the US. While it's entirely different than what I experience in the States, I do feel like I can be at home in the DR (at least so far). And, I think that's a huge blessing. When I'm in the DR, my mind is not back in the US. And, when I'm in the US, my mind is not always in the DR. Yes, there are flash backs from either side, generally of people I love, but I seem to mostly be able to live in the moment. And, by God's grace, find good people and a good life in the moment.
When I slip my mind back into the DR (and my body that tags along), it's with anticipation of the life I lead there. I hope that I don't try to lead my US life in the DR. I do try (and I will confess) to find a few comforts of home, but those really are only the external things. And truly few, relatively speaking. From the inside, from inside me, my life in the DR is good. And, my mind is settle to live there.
Many ask me, how long I'm going to be there. My short answer is basically until the work is done (when God releases me, or sends me on). I think that's 3 to 5 years, but it may be longer; it may be shorter. Only God knows. But, I do know that the DR is home for now. Not Florida. Yes, my house is in FL, but my life is in the DR.
There are times when I wake up in the middle of the night, in a place in the DR all by myself, not even my dog as a companion, and wonder, what in the world am I doing in this strange place. (hearing donkey's and chicken's making their calls in the background) But, I generally fall back to sleep quickly, and wake in the morning to the rush of the day. And find joy in the work set before me that day.
And, perhaps even a little cautiously wonder how I was chosen to be a part of this amazing adventure. Perhaps even feel sorry for those that cannot or choose not to join the adventure.
But, for now, I'm headed back. And, looking forward to all the sights and sounds, but mostly the people I can grow from, learn from, share with, and be with in what I believe is God's amazing adventure in the DR.
I remember when I had a home up in Canada. Each time I stayed at my home in Canada, I felt, not quite Canadian, but close to it. At least I felt at home there. Even for brief moments. But then, like going through a magic transporter, when I was back in Florida, it was a different life all together. Two worlds tied together, but each unique.
That's basically the case with my life in the DR and the US. While it's entirely different than what I experience in the States, I do feel like I can be at home in the DR (at least so far). And, I think that's a huge blessing. When I'm in the DR, my mind is not back in the US. And, when I'm in the US, my mind is not always in the DR. Yes, there are flash backs from either side, generally of people I love, but I seem to mostly be able to live in the moment. And, by God's grace, find good people and a good life in the moment.
When I slip my mind back into the DR (and my body that tags along), it's with anticipation of the life I lead there. I hope that I don't try to lead my US life in the DR. I do try (and I will confess) to find a few comforts of home, but those really are only the external things. And truly few, relatively speaking. From the inside, from inside me, my life in the DR is good. And, my mind is settle to live there.
Many ask me, how long I'm going to be there. My short answer is basically until the work is done (when God releases me, or sends me on). I think that's 3 to 5 years, but it may be longer; it may be shorter. Only God knows. But, I do know that the DR is home for now. Not Florida. Yes, my house is in FL, but my life is in the DR.
There are times when I wake up in the middle of the night, in a place in the DR all by myself, not even my dog as a companion, and wonder, what in the world am I doing in this strange place. (hearing donkey's and chicken's making their calls in the background) But, I generally fall back to sleep quickly, and wake in the morning to the rush of the day. And find joy in the work set before me that day.
And, perhaps even a little cautiously wonder how I was chosen to be a part of this amazing adventure. Perhaps even feel sorry for those that cannot or choose not to join the adventure.
But, for now, I'm headed back. And, looking forward to all the sights and sounds, but mostly the people I can grow from, learn from, share with, and be with in what I believe is God's amazing adventure in the DR.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
I Case I Can't Speak
I rarely have a problem speaking, but I've been ask to speak at my Grandma's funeral. She passed away today, early this morning. I'm in San Juan Puerto Rico on way way back to Alabama for the funeral. I spoke to Mom. She's doing okay, but she also informed me that I would need to say a "few words" at the funeral. My preference is no for fear my emotions will overcome my words, but this is not a time you say "no" to someone who's lost their mother. So, by God's grace, I will say something.
But in case I can't speak the words I want to because of emotions, or whatever, I will say...
First of all, my Grandma was amazing to me as a boy and young man. From chocolate milk from a bottle delivered by a milk man many years ago, to washing my stinky uniforms at the steak resturant I worked at, she loved to love on me. And, all those and many more jestures of love, without ever being asked. And, the final words my Grandma said to me as she hugged my neck in January, and I had the thought of that possibly being the last time I'd see her on this side, "I love you." And that she did.
Because of people like my Grandma, and probably for people like you, we have never stood alone. We have never lived aloned, or prayed alone, or succeeded alone. We have stood on the shoulders of some incredible family. And whether it is my dear friend Shana Bruno and her awesome family (who happens to be Jewish) or all the families I know that have Christian faith backgrounds, how incredibly blessed we have been. I only have to look in the DR and Haiti to know how broken families can produce broken lives. And yet, that is not our experience. Far from it. And, the only reason it is not our experience is that God has blessed us with the deep loving relationships from our families. Our family may be far from perfect. Far from easy sometimes, but it's the marathon that counts, not the sprint. And it's the marathon we've all run in, and the marathon of our grandparents (and uncles, and aunts, and cousins, good friends, and our faith family) that make those bonds special.
So, thank you Grandma for the shoulders to stand on, to lean on, to laugh on, to cry on. You blessed my life in ways I will only understand perhaps on the other side of life. But I am at least beginning to see how amazing my life is because of you. Thank you. I truly wish you rest. I hope you're having an amazing reunion with my grandfather, and my father, and Joey, and others we've had to let go on this side. And, I will do my best to honor the value of family that you instilled in me.
But, in case I can't speak at your funeral, perhaps you'll get this message.
But in case I can't speak the words I want to because of emotions, or whatever, I will say...
First of all, my Grandma was amazing to me as a boy and young man. From chocolate milk from a bottle delivered by a milk man many years ago, to washing my stinky uniforms at the steak resturant I worked at, she loved to love on me. And, all those and many more jestures of love, without ever being asked. And, the final words my Grandma said to me as she hugged my neck in January, and I had the thought of that possibly being the last time I'd see her on this side, "I love you." And that she did.
Because of people like my Grandma, and probably for people like you, we have never stood alone. We have never lived aloned, or prayed alone, or succeeded alone. We have stood on the shoulders of some incredible family. And whether it is my dear friend Shana Bruno and her awesome family (who happens to be Jewish) or all the families I know that have Christian faith backgrounds, how incredibly blessed we have been. I only have to look in the DR and Haiti to know how broken families can produce broken lives. And yet, that is not our experience. Far from it. And, the only reason it is not our experience is that God has blessed us with the deep loving relationships from our families. Our family may be far from perfect. Far from easy sometimes, but it's the marathon that counts, not the sprint. And it's the marathon we've all run in, and the marathon of our grandparents (and uncles, and aunts, and cousins, good friends, and our faith family) that make those bonds special.
So, thank you Grandma for the shoulders to stand on, to lean on, to laugh on, to cry on. You blessed my life in ways I will only understand perhaps on the other side of life. But I am at least beginning to see how amazing my life is because of you. Thank you. I truly wish you rest. I hope you're having an amazing reunion with my grandfather, and my father, and Joey, and others we've had to let go on this side. And, I will do my best to honor the value of family that you instilled in me.
But, in case I can't speak at your funeral, perhaps you'll get this message.
The Dusty Road
Haiti seems to never get old. At least the experience of Haiti never gets old. The conditions of Haiti get tiring, very tiring, but not old. At least not to me. I went in just this past week and saw the same things I saw seven years ago, and the same things I've been seeing for seven years, but for some reason the experience always seems fresh, in a sad way. And asking the same questions I've been asking for six years. Still no answers. Many suffering; the good and the bad. I do wonder what God is doing and what He wants us to do.
But, the trip was good. I went in with Holly Eckhart, Melissa Jung, Luckson, and a group they were leading from their local churches and Harding University. I met some of them in Puerta Plata, DR for 2 days of R&R. And, I'm finding that being a missionary does have a few perks. Melissa paid for my hotel room. And, it was a very nice place. Good to refresh before heading into Haiti. (Hot water and A/C are two of the most amazing things!!) Another person in the group paid for my gas to travel to the boarder, and others were generous in other ways. They were all great to be around.
When the trip started, it seemed long and hot the whole time. Haiti has not had rain for more than 2 months. Everything is dust. So much dust, that you get in the middle of "dust outs" riding down the road. Dust so thick you can't see the vehicle in front of you. And, with traveling in a car with the windows down or on the back of a truck, you become a magnet for dust.
I was working with Holly (an RN) in visiting homes and providing medicines and help with the health issues. Holly was called away to another issue, and asked if I would continue to see the patients. Having been on the clinic trips several times, I said sure I'll do it. Most of the patients are needing either OTC pain meds, Vermox (worm medicine), vitamins, some medicated lotion, or just food. So it was with this trip. With two other Harding students, we ventured on. And, I'm not a doctor, but I played one for a day. I think my white skin helped. Cases I was uncomfortable or unfamiliar with, I referred to the real doctor who was with us.
When we were passing out things to help, we ran across one old lady who needed some lotion. I explained to the Harding girls with me that often the most healing thing is the human touch. I suggested they give her some lotion, but also ask if they could apply some to her arms and hands. Like a mini massage of sorts. The old lady's eyes lit up. And so did her blouse. Before we knew it she had her blouse off, no bra, and well endowed, but well aged breasts showing, or more like hanging. You should have seen the look in those girls eyes. What were they to do? Apply lotion everywhere?? It was very funny. But, instead of a full body massage, after a pause of shock, we suggested she put her blouse back on, and just let them massage her arms. Oh the things you see in Haiti.
I wish I was smart enough or wise enough to know how to truly help. And perhaps that's what is so discouraging about Haiti. Looking back and wondering what was really accomplished. And yet, admiring those who live there by choice (missionaries) and battle every day the unspeakable conditions. And I admire those who live there by God's providence who have no choice to leave, but still seem to survive another day.
So, I left Haiti in a cloud of dust. Dust on the road; dust on my brain; dust in my eyes. Not seeing clearly.
But, the trip was good. I went in with Holly Eckhart, Melissa Jung, Luckson, and a group they were leading from their local churches and Harding University. I met some of them in Puerta Plata, DR for 2 days of R&R. And, I'm finding that being a missionary does have a few perks. Melissa paid for my hotel room. And, it was a very nice place. Good to refresh before heading into Haiti. (Hot water and A/C are two of the most amazing things!!) Another person in the group paid for my gas to travel to the boarder, and others were generous in other ways. They were all great to be around.
When the trip started, it seemed long and hot the whole time. Haiti has not had rain for more than 2 months. Everything is dust. So much dust, that you get in the middle of "dust outs" riding down the road. Dust so thick you can't see the vehicle in front of you. And, with traveling in a car with the windows down or on the back of a truck, you become a magnet for dust.
I was working with Holly (an RN) in visiting homes and providing medicines and help with the health issues. Holly was called away to another issue, and asked if I would continue to see the patients. Having been on the clinic trips several times, I said sure I'll do it. Most of the patients are needing either OTC pain meds, Vermox (worm medicine), vitamins, some medicated lotion, or just food. So it was with this trip. With two other Harding students, we ventured on. And, I'm not a doctor, but I played one for a day. I think my white skin helped. Cases I was uncomfortable or unfamiliar with, I referred to the real doctor who was with us.
When we were passing out things to help, we ran across one old lady who needed some lotion. I explained to the Harding girls with me that often the most healing thing is the human touch. I suggested they give her some lotion, but also ask if they could apply some to her arms and hands. Like a mini massage of sorts. The old lady's eyes lit up. And so did her blouse. Before we knew it she had her blouse off, no bra, and well endowed, but well aged breasts showing, or more like hanging. You should have seen the look in those girls eyes. What were they to do? Apply lotion everywhere?? It was very funny. But, instead of a full body massage, after a pause of shock, we suggested she put her blouse back on, and just let them massage her arms. Oh the things you see in Haiti.
I wish I was smart enough or wise enough to know how to truly help. And perhaps that's what is so discouraging about Haiti. Looking back and wondering what was really accomplished. And yet, admiring those who live there by choice (missionaries) and battle every day the unspeakable conditions. And I admire those who live there by God's providence who have no choice to leave, but still seem to survive another day.
So, I left Haiti in a cloud of dust. Dust on the road; dust on my brain; dust in my eyes. Not seeing clearly.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Up Coming Events
I’m headed to Haiti in a few days. Didn’t really plan to go, but there’s possible administration changes with some of the work in the Cap Haitien area, and Brian Wallace (the program director here in RSJ, I and all other missionaries report to Brian) wants to consider getting involved again. So I’m headed there with a group from Colorado and Harding (including Luckson) to do a survey of the work that needs some attention and possible administration change. I’m praying the Lord shows what He wants. I’m concerned about many things including us getting to distracted with multiple programs, and the constant and difficult challenge of knowing how to help in Haiti.
After that, a missionary retreat where all 10 of us (yep, there’s 10 here now!) will be team building. For those of you what know of the DISC personality profile that I’ve shared with you, that’s part of what we’ll be doing. I’m looking forward to it. Some are a little nervous, but I think it will be good. So far the team is growing well together. I hope God keeps it up. We all seem to have different roles (children’s home, children’s outreach, evangelism, and administration), which seems to help us all get along. Working with one another, but also having our own responsibilities.
And then visiting couples and individuals considering joining our work. TJ/Holly McCloud roll off in September, so we need to find a couple to continue their work, plus at least one more couple or individuals to help grow their work. We’re blessed to have several people interested in becoming a part of this team.
Plus keeping the ball rolling with the building plans and land purchase.
All in all, I’ve been extremely busy. Running more than I have in a long time. (Part of my excuse to be out of touch recently) I’m hoping it will slow down or at least I’ll figure out how to balance it all. I’m a little rusty on multi-tasking so it’s taking a bit to get me in full swing.
After that, a missionary retreat where all 10 of us (yep, there’s 10 here now!) will be team building. For those of you what know of the DISC personality profile that I’ve shared with you, that’s part of what we’ll be doing. I’m looking forward to it. Some are a little nervous, but I think it will be good. So far the team is growing well together. I hope God keeps it up. We all seem to have different roles (children’s home, children’s outreach, evangelism, and administration), which seems to help us all get along. Working with one another, but also having our own responsibilities.
And then visiting couples and individuals considering joining our work. TJ/Holly McCloud roll off in September, so we need to find a couple to continue their work, plus at least one more couple or individuals to help grow their work. We’re blessed to have several people interested in becoming a part of this team.
Plus keeping the ball rolling with the building plans and land purchase.
All in all, I’ve been extremely busy. Running more than I have in a long time. (Part of my excuse to be out of touch recently) I’m hoping it will slow down or at least I’ll figure out how to balance it all. I’m a little rusty on multi-tasking so it’s taking a bit to get me in full swing.
My Santiago Family
Have visited with Marsil, Paul, and Nidia several times. It’s gone really well with Paul and Marsil. Just like old times. Nidia has been a bit distant, but not sure what that’s all about. Kind but distant. I basically ignore it. As she’s single, I am careful to keep a well-defined line.
Marsil recently passed a test that allows him to continue at the school he’s been attending. They have competency tests to insure suitability with the technical program they are studying. Supposed to be the best native school in Santiago. So, it was a huge relief when he passed (he had failed the test 2 times before, and this was his last shot). He did it!! Paul is also good. He’s continuing to grow. And is just so much easier to be around than when I arrived back in August. The old whiny Paul almost never surfaces anymore. I’m very proud of him.
Marsil recently passed a test that allows him to continue at the school he’s been attending. They have competency tests to insure suitability with the technical program they are studying. Supposed to be the best native school in Santiago. So, it was a huge relief when he passed (he had failed the test 2 times before, and this was his last shot). He did it!! Paul is also good. He’s continuing to grow. And is just so much easier to be around than when I arrived back in August. The old whiny Paul almost never surfaces anymore. I’m very proud of him.
Other Misc Stuff
Looks like I may have my first intern this summer. My good friend and brother, Luckson, has a friend who’s a senior at Harding. He’s finishing up but before starting his teaching career, he wants to work with the poor this summer. He’s also a starter on their basketball team, and with the basketball courts just across the street, there’s a possibility that God’s got some amazing things in store for him this summer. He will also assist with visiting groups and help manage the construction project, but hopefully (and probably most importantly) will also make a big impact on the local kids.
I also have my first “employee”. Although perhaps employee is not quite the right word. He’s a native of RSJ named Osvaldo (pronounced Os-bald-o). About 25 years old, and has recently married an American girl (former mid-term missionary) but she’s in the states finishing her teaching degree. They are awaiting his spousal visa for him to go to the US. The current missionary team (TJ & Holly McCloud) had employed him up to now, but we think transitioning him to me makes more since giving the huge challenge we’ll have in getting the outreach center built.
I also have my first “employee”. Although perhaps employee is not quite the right word. He’s a native of RSJ named Osvaldo (pronounced Os-bald-o). About 25 years old, and has recently married an American girl (former mid-term missionary) but she’s in the states finishing her teaching degree. They are awaiting his spousal visa for him to go to the US. The current missionary team (TJ & Holly McCloud) had employed him up to now, but we think transitioning him to me makes more since giving the huge challenge we’ll have in getting the outreach center built.
What I've Been Doing
We finally have the first round of title papers to confirm that we can make a formal offer to buy the vacant lot in Rio San Juan (RSJ) to begin building the outreach center. It was, as all things are, an amazingly frustrating and typical process. Six weeks of waiting for one simple piece of paper. Attorneys here are slow and lie a lot. Always say the papers will be here tomorrow. Tomorrow never comes. Finally, after telling the owner that their attorney was bad (malo), he actually got another one. And, it took the new one 3 days to get the papers.
But, the good news is that we do have a copy of the owner’s title for the property, so we have engaged our attorney to put together a buy/sell contract; begin title search, and hopefully in about 2 months, we’ll be the owner of a vacant lot.
Several good things have happened. For one, we were expecting the price of the property to be about $30,000, but, if we understand the property owner correctly (which is a big if), the price is actually around $24,000. Not sure why or how the original price got confused. But, we suspect our own local assistance was asking for a “middle man” commission, and when we excluded him from the deal, the price lowered. Keep in mind this guy is one of the locals working with us, so it’s been a real challenge to understand why he’d try to get a commission as our representative. But, the property representative told us about it, and we confronted him. He, of course, denied everything. So, the truth is probably somewhere out there possibly never to be found.
In any case, we’re off and running. Also working on plans to submit to the town for approval. If you are native and/or know the right people, plans are unnecessary, but since we’re foreigners they’ll probably require “fees and payments” before we get approval. All in the name of God, for the children.
The building will basically take up the entire lot (only about 63 feet by 63 feet). About 3600 square feet per floor, with 3 floors likely (if approved). First floor will be generally meeting area, second floor offices and classrooms; third floor will be living quarters. Little or no green areas, but for the price and location, it’s ideal for our continued outreach to the children and people of RSJ.
The other time has been spent getting to know the area more. I was in Santiago before, so getting to know RSJ better. And, getting settled in. Finding stores that sale what you want is like a treasure hunt. No Wal-Mart’s here. You’re fortunate if you find what you want in 5 stores. But generally, you settle on about finding 60-70% of what you wanted, and live the rest for when you make a trip over the mountain to Santiago.
But, the good news is that we do have a copy of the owner’s title for the property, so we have engaged our attorney to put together a buy/sell contract; begin title search, and hopefully in about 2 months, we’ll be the owner of a vacant lot.
Several good things have happened. For one, we were expecting the price of the property to be about $30,000, but, if we understand the property owner correctly (which is a big if), the price is actually around $24,000. Not sure why or how the original price got confused. But, we suspect our own local assistance was asking for a “middle man” commission, and when we excluded him from the deal, the price lowered. Keep in mind this guy is one of the locals working with us, so it’s been a real challenge to understand why he’d try to get a commission as our representative. But, the property representative told us about it, and we confronted him. He, of course, denied everything. So, the truth is probably somewhere out there possibly never to be found.
In any case, we’re off and running. Also working on plans to submit to the town for approval. If you are native and/or know the right people, plans are unnecessary, but since we’re foreigners they’ll probably require “fees and payments” before we get approval. All in the name of God, for the children.
The building will basically take up the entire lot (only about 63 feet by 63 feet). About 3600 square feet per floor, with 3 floors likely (if approved). First floor will be generally meeting area, second floor offices and classrooms; third floor will be living quarters. Little or no green areas, but for the price and location, it’s ideal for our continued outreach to the children and people of RSJ.
The other time has been spent getting to know the area more. I was in Santiago before, so getting to know RSJ better. And, getting settled in. Finding stores that sale what you want is like a treasure hunt. No Wal-Mart’s here. You’re fortunate if you find what you want in 5 stores. But generally, you settle on about finding 60-70% of what you wanted, and live the rest for when you make a trip over the mountain to Santiago.
How I Get Around
I purchased a used 2000 Toyota Surf. Which is like a Toyota 4-Runner SUV in the states, except it was built in Japan. And it was driven in Japan until it was shipped here just a few weeks ago. Japan’s driving is on the opposite side as American and DR cars, so everything in the front seats had to be switched. Some things were not switched. I still turn the wipers on when I want to turn my turn signal on (probably always will). The vehicle is diesel, which makes cars last longer, better mileage, and diesel is cheaper in the DR than gasoline. While it is 8 years old, the exterior body condition of the vehicle is excellent. Interior is also good. And, it came with a 3-month bumper-to-bumper warranty; with a 5-month engine/transmission guarantee.
The search for the vehicle was interesting. I know just enough about cars to be dangerous. But, in the looking at vehicles on the used car lots in Santiago, it was SO obvious that every single one of them (every one!!!) had the mileage odometer rolled backed. All of them probably had nearly 200,000 miles on them in reality, but all the odometers read between 70,000 and 80,000 kilometers. You think used car dealers are snakes in the US, you ain’t seen nothing!!! So, I ended up contacting the local mechanic that all the missionaries use, and some have used to purchase vehicles, and ask him to try to fine me one. He did. I still think the odometer was rolled back, but not to the extreme of the others, and having just come from Japan, it has never been driving in the country with its rough roads. So, all in all, I’ve been very pleased with it.
So far a few minor issues, but Henri (the mechanic) fixes everything, including replacement of the battery with a new one when it failed and left me stranded yesterday!
In this country, and most outside of 1st world countries, car problems are typical and expected (though unexpected). But everyone around is helpful and gets involved in solving the problem. It’s pretty neat in some ways. Strangers start the hunt for battery cables. You stand there looking ignorant, and others around start asking everyone passing by if they have battery cables to start your car. I’ve been stranded 3 times since I’ve been here for various reasons, and each and every time, strangers (from a 2 to 5) basically rally around me and get the problem solved.
One last thing about cars, if you had washing your car, the DR is for your. Granted, in the DR, you car gets dirty in one day, but for $3 dollars, you get it detailed. And I mean DETAILED. I sat there for almost 2 hours in amazement as this kid washed and detailed my car. Reaching all the way in the wheel well and washing behind the wheels!! Every inch of that car that he could reach was washed. Never seen anything like it. At first I thought, wow, $3 US, was high for washing a car, but then when I realized that it was a FULL detailing, I feel guilty. Ended up giving him a $3 tip. It was still only $6 and the kid was probably paid about $.25 of the base price. He then said “ask for me every time you need your car washed!” His name is Juan Carlos. I plan to.
The search for the vehicle was interesting. I know just enough about cars to be dangerous. But, in the looking at vehicles on the used car lots in Santiago, it was SO obvious that every single one of them (every one!!!) had the mileage odometer rolled backed. All of them probably had nearly 200,000 miles on them in reality, but all the odometers read between 70,000 and 80,000 kilometers. You think used car dealers are snakes in the US, you ain’t seen nothing!!! So, I ended up contacting the local mechanic that all the missionaries use, and some have used to purchase vehicles, and ask him to try to fine me one. He did. I still think the odometer was rolled back, but not to the extreme of the others, and having just come from Japan, it has never been driving in the country with its rough roads. So, all in all, I’ve been very pleased with it.
So far a few minor issues, but Henri (the mechanic) fixes everything, including replacement of the battery with a new one when it failed and left me stranded yesterday!
In this country, and most outside of 1st world countries, car problems are typical and expected (though unexpected). But everyone around is helpful and gets involved in solving the problem. It’s pretty neat in some ways. Strangers start the hunt for battery cables. You stand there looking ignorant, and others around start asking everyone passing by if they have battery cables to start your car. I’ve been stranded 3 times since I’ve been here for various reasons, and each and every time, strangers (from a 2 to 5) basically rally around me and get the problem solved.
One last thing about cars, if you had washing your car, the DR is for your. Granted, in the DR, you car gets dirty in one day, but for $3 dollars, you get it detailed. And I mean DETAILED. I sat there for almost 2 hours in amazement as this kid washed and detailed my car. Reaching all the way in the wheel well and washing behind the wheels!! Every inch of that car that he could reach was washed. Never seen anything like it. At first I thought, wow, $3 US, was high for washing a car, but then when I realized that it was a FULL detailing, I feel guilty. Ended up giving him a $3 tip. It was still only $6 and the kid was probably paid about $.25 of the base price. He then said “ask for me every time you need your car washed!” His name is Juan Carlos. I plan to.
Where I Live
Rio San Juan is probably about 15,000 in population, but still basically a very poor town. It used to be a fishing village right on the ocean, but now is growing from tourism. But, it's not exactly a tourist destination, at least by American standards. More Europeans than Americans come here. Possibly in part, unfortunately, for the sex tourism/trade. Nothing is overt like maybe in Las Vegas, but it’s well known that there's a big problem. And the biggest problem is that young girls and boys are often at the center of the trade. Tourism is big dollars compared to anything else that someone could do around here.
There is the usually mix of mostly poor, but some rich folks. Mostly basic housing, but some amazing homes on the hills overlooking the ocean. Lots of opportunity to help.
I live in a barrio known as “hospital” (pronounced “ospital”; drop the “H”), because it’s behind the local hospital (Note: if you need a hospital, DON’T go to this one!) I’m about ½ mile outside of town so it’s much quieter than living in town. Still very loud by American standards, but quiet by DR standards. Easy to walk to town if I need to.
My apartment is like a duplex; with mine being the upstairs apartment. 2 Bedrooms, large living room/dining room; large bathroom, decent size 2nd bedroom, tiny kitchen, front balcony, and large back terrace/patio; probably around 1200 square feet or more. Fairly new, possibly one year old, Nice size. Tile everywhere, which is nice. Tacky tile, but tile none the less.
The owner and his wife live downstairs and run a small colemado (tiny store). He’s from Spain and she (much younger) is from the DR. Having them living down stairs from me is actually good in that he’ll keep a very close eye on my place when I’m gone (which I’ve been gone a lot lately to Santiago, etc.). And, he has a generator which is necessary to run his refrigerators at the store, which basically insures that I have some level of electricity 24/7. It’s nothing to rave about in terms of strength, but does make the fan go around, mostly, during the night. We’re used to about 110 in the States, and I probably get may 25-50 during the night, so things like fans run much slower and fade in and out, but again, GREAT in comparison to most people around me.
I also have cable TV, which is included (probably 50 channels, of which about 10 or so are US channels including CNN, major networks, etc.). I have a front patio overlooking the local sports park. And, again while nothing like American parks, there’s a great view of all the kids playing baseball with sticks. Plus a huge, very nice, covered basketball court/stadium. Also great view from my front patio. Other houses in the area range from a few like the one I live in, to much smaller, many unpainted CBS block. The neighborhood would be considered one of the nicest in the area, excluding the “all foreigner” neighborhoods up in the hills. Some of those are unbelievable!
The apartment was furnished, all the way to dishes and towels. I had to get a lot of “American” conveniences, but mostly had the stuff I wanted. Including two TV’s, living room furniture, small refrigerator, stove/oven, great master bedroom furniture, and extra bunk beds in the 2nd bedroom. Some say I have one of the nicest bathrooms in RSJ. You’ll have to judge for yourself when you see it. Here’s a hint: the landlord is from Europe.
Weather here has been absolutely amazing. Beautiful. If you want to visit (and please please do) and you hate hot weather, come in the winter. It really is very mild. It has surprised me how nice the weather has been. Almost like south Florida. Warm in the day and cool at night. Humidity is lower now. Incredible breezes blow through my apartment. It’s been great. (Note; no screens yet, but hopefully my brother (Wanda, pass this to Eulice) can send me the supplies to make them. The bugs are HUGE. Not to mention the occasional rat!
Oh, and did I mention that is comes with a housekeeper. Yep, like all places like this, the guy downstairs has a housekeeper, so she cleans my apartment as needed. So far once a week, but that just because I’ve not really needing it more. She’s offer to clean more often. And, she does my laundry. So, not so rough so far.
Most people in RSJ would consider this an extremely nice apartment. I would agree. Very blessed.
There is the usually mix of mostly poor, but some rich folks. Mostly basic housing, but some amazing homes on the hills overlooking the ocean. Lots of opportunity to help.
I live in a barrio known as “hospital” (pronounced “ospital”; drop the “H”), because it’s behind the local hospital (Note: if you need a hospital, DON’T go to this one!) I’m about ½ mile outside of town so it’s much quieter than living in town. Still very loud by American standards, but quiet by DR standards. Easy to walk to town if I need to.
My apartment is like a duplex; with mine being the upstairs apartment. 2 Bedrooms, large living room/dining room; large bathroom, decent size 2nd bedroom, tiny kitchen, front balcony, and large back terrace/patio; probably around 1200 square feet or more. Fairly new, possibly one year old, Nice size. Tile everywhere, which is nice. Tacky tile, but tile none the less.
The owner and his wife live downstairs and run a small colemado (tiny store). He’s from Spain and she (much younger) is from the DR. Having them living down stairs from me is actually good in that he’ll keep a very close eye on my place when I’m gone (which I’ve been gone a lot lately to Santiago, etc.). And, he has a generator which is necessary to run his refrigerators at the store, which basically insures that I have some level of electricity 24/7. It’s nothing to rave about in terms of strength, but does make the fan go around, mostly, during the night. We’re used to about 110 in the States, and I probably get may 25-50 during the night, so things like fans run much slower and fade in and out, but again, GREAT in comparison to most people around me.
I also have cable TV, which is included (probably 50 channels, of which about 10 or so are US channels including CNN, major networks, etc.). I have a front patio overlooking the local sports park. And, again while nothing like American parks, there’s a great view of all the kids playing baseball with sticks. Plus a huge, very nice, covered basketball court/stadium. Also great view from my front patio. Other houses in the area range from a few like the one I live in, to much smaller, many unpainted CBS block. The neighborhood would be considered one of the nicest in the area, excluding the “all foreigner” neighborhoods up in the hills. Some of those are unbelievable!
The apartment was furnished, all the way to dishes and towels. I had to get a lot of “American” conveniences, but mostly had the stuff I wanted. Including two TV’s, living room furniture, small refrigerator, stove/oven, great master bedroom furniture, and extra bunk beds in the 2nd bedroom. Some say I have one of the nicest bathrooms in RSJ. You’ll have to judge for yourself when you see it. Here’s a hint: the landlord is from Europe.
Weather here has been absolutely amazing. Beautiful. If you want to visit (and please please do) and you hate hot weather, come in the winter. It really is very mild. It has surprised me how nice the weather has been. Almost like south Florida. Warm in the day and cool at night. Humidity is lower now. Incredible breezes blow through my apartment. It’s been great. (Note; no screens yet, but hopefully my brother (Wanda, pass this to Eulice) can send me the supplies to make them. The bugs are HUGE. Not to mention the occasional rat!
Oh, and did I mention that is comes with a housekeeper. Yep, like all places like this, the guy downstairs has a housekeeper, so she cleans my apartment as needed. So far once a week, but that just because I’ve not really needing it more. She’s offer to clean more often. And, she does my laundry. So, not so rough so far.
Most people in RSJ would consider this an extremely nice apartment. I would agree. Very blessed.
Back in the DR
I know these blogs get long. And I’m way behind. So at least I’ve broken them up into some major topics. Getting access to the internet has been extremely challenging. I am settle in the DR (Rio San Juan). But, don’t have internet at my house, so it’s much harder to communicate. I did finally get my email working on the local PC, so hopefully I’ll be able to write and read emails at my house, and send/receive when I’m near a wireless connection. Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. Things are going well.
I have had a good time so far. Not met my new Marsil and Paul yet, and may never again. Still, it’s been good. (See below an update of my old Marsil Paul)
So, by blog topic, at least you can choose what (if any) you want to read. God speed and blessings to you all.
I have had a good time so far. Not met my new Marsil and Paul yet, and may never again. Still, it’s been good. (See below an update of my old Marsil Paul)
So, by blog topic, at least you can choose what (if any) you want to read. God speed and blessings to you all.
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