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.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
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.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
My Last Blog - "Go With God"
….Well, at least for this trip, my last blog. Moments like this you feel like you should have something really profound to say. You feel like you should be so much more enlightened, so much smarter… but here’s the secret. I’m not. Not really.
But, it wasn’t enlightenment that I was pursuing.
What I was pursuing is the place in this world that was mine, for just that (a) moment. A special place reserved only for me. And that’s probably the pursuit I’ll have for the next phase, and the next, and the next.
I saw so much; experienced things beyond description; loved in ways I never did before. I saw so much that is true; so much that is false. And I pursue both. Gold and fool’s gold
I wish I could say that my adventure here was without bad choices. But it wasn’t. I can’t run from my faults. I can’t run from being human. So, for those of you that are looking for that person to put up on a hill and commend for outstanding performance, I respectfully withdraw my name from consideration. I only say by God’s grace…..
What did I learn? Maybe nothing new, maybe just reinforcement of things God has already shown. If I want to make a difference in this world, I have to give my heart to the cause. And sometimes giving my heart comes without choice or even noticing that my heart is being given away. But for the people I’ve met, I do leave part of my heart here. And for you that want to make a difference, I think you too must leave your heart where you want to make a difference. No heart, no difference it seems.
I will not forget the moment when my Mom hugged me as I was leaving Miami in August to come here. I had no clue what I was doing. No clue what was going to happen. Feeling so empty of those that I left behind. And, just beyond that door (I couldn’t see) was this amazing adventure waiting for me.
Mom’s last words as I left, through her tears and mine, “Go with God”. And as you read the words on a page I’m guessing the meaning and intensity is somewhat lost, but those words have stuck with me throughout this journey. And what better words. And what better testimony to God. That through it all, the good and bad, God was there. Correcting, supporting, inviting, protecting, loving, and even disciplining.
So, the journey was one of God I hope. Not me. Not by my invitation, but His. Not because of who I am, but inspite of who I am. And I hope that anyone He’s calling, they’ll understand that it truly takes nothing special. Actually, it’s the opposite. It takes the ordinary and insignificant for God to make special. And that’s exactly what happened. It was insignificant and ordinary, and God made it incredibly special and extraordinary.
I’m writing this last blog on this deserted beach with my laptop computer. It is possibly one of the most beautiful beaches you’d ever see. Truly almost perfect. Palm trees hanging over the water; gentle breeze; big waves crashing on the rock; white sand, a slight curve to the alcove. Long and beautiful sand. Streams of fresh water coming from the mountains to the sea. The sun setting in the distance. Impossible to completely describe. But it’s really here; places like this really do exist. And in case it’s hard to imagine, I happened to have my camera, so here are the pictures. (at the bottom of this blog) And who’s on this beach?? No one, except me. Only one soul. A spot reserved for this moment, just for me. To finish my blog. It’s a perfect ending to this journey. Perfect.
I want you to know that I so much appreciate you letters, comments, and prayers. And even those the words on this page seem distant, please know your names and words and emails came to mind many times during this journey. They were fresh water to my soul. I know I didn’t make this trip alone. I know there were many joining me in many ways. And thanks for taking the journey with me. It would not have been the same without you.
And thank you God for this journey. I pray we all honored you with this journey.
But, it wasn’t enlightenment that I was pursuing.
What I was pursuing is the place in this world that was mine, for just that (a) moment. A special place reserved only for me. And that’s probably the pursuit I’ll have for the next phase, and the next, and the next.
I saw so much; experienced things beyond description; loved in ways I never did before. I saw so much that is true; so much that is false. And I pursue both. Gold and fool’s gold
I wish I could say that my adventure here was without bad choices. But it wasn’t. I can’t run from my faults. I can’t run from being human. So, for those of you that are looking for that person to put up on a hill and commend for outstanding performance, I respectfully withdraw my name from consideration. I only say by God’s grace…..
What did I learn? Maybe nothing new, maybe just reinforcement of things God has already shown. If I want to make a difference in this world, I have to give my heart to the cause. And sometimes giving my heart comes without choice or even noticing that my heart is being given away. But for the people I’ve met, I do leave part of my heart here. And for you that want to make a difference, I think you too must leave your heart where you want to make a difference. No heart, no difference it seems.
I will not forget the moment when my Mom hugged me as I was leaving Miami in August to come here. I had no clue what I was doing. No clue what was going to happen. Feeling so empty of those that I left behind. And, just beyond that door (I couldn’t see) was this amazing adventure waiting for me.
Mom’s last words as I left, through her tears and mine, “Go with God”. And as you read the words on a page I’m guessing the meaning and intensity is somewhat lost, but those words have stuck with me throughout this journey. And what better words. And what better testimony to God. That through it all, the good and bad, God was there. Correcting, supporting, inviting, protecting, loving, and even disciplining.
So, the journey was one of God I hope. Not me. Not by my invitation, but His. Not because of who I am, but inspite of who I am. And I hope that anyone He’s calling, they’ll understand that it truly takes nothing special. Actually, it’s the opposite. It takes the ordinary and insignificant for God to make special. And that’s exactly what happened. It was insignificant and ordinary, and God made it incredibly special and extraordinary.
I’m writing this last blog on this deserted beach with my laptop computer. It is possibly one of the most beautiful beaches you’d ever see. Truly almost perfect. Palm trees hanging over the water; gentle breeze; big waves crashing on the rock; white sand, a slight curve to the alcove. Long and beautiful sand. Streams of fresh water coming from the mountains to the sea. The sun setting in the distance. Impossible to completely describe. But it’s really here; places like this really do exist. And in case it’s hard to imagine, I happened to have my camera, so here are the pictures. (at the bottom of this blog) And who’s on this beach?? No one, except me. Only one soul. A spot reserved for this moment, just for me. To finish my blog. It’s a perfect ending to this journey. Perfect.
I want you to know that I so much appreciate you letters, comments, and prayers. And even those the words on this page seem distant, please know your names and words and emails came to mind many times during this journey. They were fresh water to my soul. I know I didn’t make this trip alone. I know there were many joining me in many ways. And thanks for taking the journey with me. It would not have been the same without you.
And thank you God for this journey. I pray we all honored you with this journey.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Thanksgiving Pics
Me, to my left Tammie Wallace (Brian's in Guatemala studying Spanish), Laura Beth and Corey Lamb, in back TJ & Holly McCloud.
Not my best shot, but then again, not my best Thanksgiving meal. But very Thankful none the less!
The crew in Santo Domingo, in "Zona Colonial"
Two Weeks And Counting
This may be my next to the last entry. I was updating weekly, but news has become routine, so not much to blog about.
For Thanksgiving, the missionaries got together in a resort town called Caberete and enjoyed good times together. I have spent Thanksgivings in many places, but this probably felt less like Thanksgiving than any other place. I guess because we mostly had burgers and salads on the beach instead of traditional stuff. I did get the “Thanksgiving” special, but it wasn’t quite like you probably had.
We then headed to Santo Domingo for the weekend. It was good to spend the time with the missionaries, and learn more about the most significant (largest/capital) city here (supposedly 2.25M people). Christopher Columbus had a huge impact here. And, many things in Santo Domingo are the oldest in the “America’s”. Really interesting.
My Santiago family is doing well. But, now that I’m spending more time in Rio San Juan, we’re definitely in a pulling away mode. But, I think that’s good in the long run, for all of us. They’re getting more use to me not being around as much; and vice versa. It’s something we all knew had to come, but it’s not so easy.
I’ve been averaging about half my time in Rio San Juan which is were the missionary teams are. It’s certainly different than Santiago. No fast food; no American food, no grocery stores or anything else to speak of. No place to call my own. But, the folks here are great and warm, and I enjoy being around them. Any time I’m around people that seem to have given up everything to serve, they impress me.
Many people are asking if I’ve learned Spanish or how the Spanish is going. And to be honest, the questions (if I can be honest) get trying, because learning a language is extremely difficult to explain; and everyone learns at a different pace, and you don’t wake up one day and you’ve “learned” a language. All things I’ve learned since I started studying Spanish. There are days I understand what I consider a lot; and other days I think I’ve learned nothing. And, if you’ve never tried to really learn another language, there’s no real reference point. At least that was the case for me. Trying to learn a foreign language has made me so much more sympathetic to foreigners living outside their own country, trying to adjust to culture, language, and life in a new country. I’ve had it relatively easy compared to most others, but there are still days when I wonder what in the world am I doing. Another reason missionaries are so impressive to me.
Three months have passed. I’ve learned so much. And, as usual, learned I know so little. And, wonder what I’ve really learned and how best to use that knowledge. I could talk for days about culture and trying to understand where people are coming from and then try to know how to really help them. I am surrounded by people in need; we live in a dying world, but knowing how to help is really really challenging. Some things I thought of before I got here…. Just not so sure any more.
If I look back and see all the “stuff” I’ve been involved with, I’d have to say that adults really rarely change. True for myself (regrettably) true for others. Children can have remarkable changes, it seems. And often do. But what exactly that means for me personally, not sure. I think it means I’m planning to move more cautiously into the next phase of whatever my life brings. You start out wide eyed, and ignorant and ready to conquer the world. You end up with more knowledge (hopefully), more questions, and more understanding but also wondering what part of the world you want to tackle, and why. When you end up with choices, lots and lots of choices, choosing gets really hard. I don’t want to be a spectator sitting in the stands, but I also don’t want to be fighting for something that’s not worth fighting for.
I believe the answers lie in wisdom and I believe wisdom comes from God and I believe my receiving wisdom is based on faith. So, I’m hoping for a mustard seed of faith.
For Thanksgiving, the missionaries got together in a resort town called Caberete and enjoyed good times together. I have spent Thanksgivings in many places, but this probably felt less like Thanksgiving than any other place. I guess because we mostly had burgers and salads on the beach instead of traditional stuff. I did get the “Thanksgiving” special, but it wasn’t quite like you probably had.
We then headed to Santo Domingo for the weekend. It was good to spend the time with the missionaries, and learn more about the most significant (largest/capital) city here (supposedly 2.25M people). Christopher Columbus had a huge impact here. And, many things in Santo Domingo are the oldest in the “America’s”. Really interesting.
My Santiago family is doing well. But, now that I’m spending more time in Rio San Juan, we’re definitely in a pulling away mode. But, I think that’s good in the long run, for all of us. They’re getting more use to me not being around as much; and vice versa. It’s something we all knew had to come, but it’s not so easy.
I’ve been averaging about half my time in Rio San Juan which is were the missionary teams are. It’s certainly different than Santiago. No fast food; no American food, no grocery stores or anything else to speak of. No place to call my own. But, the folks here are great and warm, and I enjoy being around them. Any time I’m around people that seem to have given up everything to serve, they impress me.
Many people are asking if I’ve learned Spanish or how the Spanish is going. And to be honest, the questions (if I can be honest) get trying, because learning a language is extremely difficult to explain; and everyone learns at a different pace, and you don’t wake up one day and you’ve “learned” a language. All things I’ve learned since I started studying Spanish. There are days I understand what I consider a lot; and other days I think I’ve learned nothing. And, if you’ve never tried to really learn another language, there’s no real reference point. At least that was the case for me. Trying to learn a foreign language has made me so much more sympathetic to foreigners living outside their own country, trying to adjust to culture, language, and life in a new country. I’ve had it relatively easy compared to most others, but there are still days when I wonder what in the world am I doing. Another reason missionaries are so impressive to me.
Three months have passed. I’ve learned so much. And, as usual, learned I know so little. And, wonder what I’ve really learned and how best to use that knowledge. I could talk for days about culture and trying to understand where people are coming from and then try to know how to really help them. I am surrounded by people in need; we live in a dying world, but knowing how to help is really really challenging. Some things I thought of before I got here…. Just not so sure any more.
If I look back and see all the “stuff” I’ve been involved with, I’d have to say that adults really rarely change. True for myself (regrettably) true for others. Children can have remarkable changes, it seems. And often do. But what exactly that means for me personally, not sure. I think it means I’m planning to move more cautiously into the next phase of whatever my life brings. You start out wide eyed, and ignorant and ready to conquer the world. You end up with more knowledge (hopefully), more questions, and more understanding but also wondering what part of the world you want to tackle, and why. When you end up with choices, lots and lots of choices, choosing gets really hard. I don’t want to be a spectator sitting in the stands, but I also don’t want to be fighting for something that’s not worth fighting for.
I believe the answers lie in wisdom and I believe wisdom comes from God and I believe my receiving wisdom is based on faith. So, I’m hoping for a mustard seed of faith.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Is This the Same Kid
I've got an all points bulletin out for the kid I first met here when I arrived in the DR. His name is Paul and I seem to be missing him. There is a kid here living in this house that goes by Paul, looks like Paul, sounds like Paul, and sleeps in Paul's bed, but I'm pretty sure it's not Paul.
The Paul I met when I got here was allllll about Paul. His every waking thought seemed to be about Paul. And it almost drove me crazy.
But, this kid that lives in this house now and goes by the name "Paul" doesn't even remind me of the other kid. Here's the story.... (long and blah blah)
I started an "earn your allowance" program. Similar to a program my parents did when I was young; I give Marsil and Paul each $7.5 USD in dominations of 5 pesos coins (which is a total of 250 pesos; 50 coins), at the beginning of the week (a HUGE amount of money for a kid in the DR;which really concerned me). However, each time there is a violation of a house/family rule, or misbehavior, or something that needs correcting, I take away pesos. Mostly at 5 peso increments, but up to 20 pesos at a time, based on the issue. At the end of the week, whatever money they (Paul and Marsil) have left, that's their allowance for that week, and it starts over again every week. At the end of this past week, Paul and Marsil got their first payment. Paul earned 155 pesos (lost 95 pesos), out of a possible 250 pesos. Marsil's was 185 pesos (lost 65 pesos), out of a possible 250 pesos.
After I gave them the money last night, I gave them a long (and probably boring) talk about how God blesses. How he's blessed them. How God has blessed me. How I believe God calls me to help others, and blesses me (in many ways) even more when I do help. I challenged them to consider giving a part of their allowance to someone, and do it in God's name. It could be church, a person in need, anyone they felt needed encouraging. And, this was strickly optional; voluntary. It was not a requirement or a rule; it was suggestion to merely show how they recognized God's blessing and their desire to bless others, as God has them. And, through it all, they had smirks on their faces and half laughing (typical reactions of a 12 and 15 year old), but I got through the "talk" and let it go. Hoping they heard a little of it for future reference.
We then headed to the store 'cause the money is burning a hole in their pockets (like me at their age). And I'm expecting candy, and cartoon magazines, and junk for themselves, right?? That's what I would have done; that's that I DID do when I was their age. We get to the store, and Marsil, instead of junk, buys basically school supplies!!! And spends ALL his money. He did buy some candy, but it was for his brother!!! Okay, I'm confused. But not surprised, because it's Marsil and that's typical impressive Marsil. But, the story gets better....
Paul has been talking about a magazine he's wanted to buy. And has looked forward to buying it all week. Mentioning it to me several times; his plans to buy this Pokemon magazine. He goes to get it at the store; thumbs through it and then asks me a question. "Norm, I need your advice, would you buy this magazine if you were me?" Hard question! For one, cartoons were never my bag and I'm 43. 12 years old was a long time ago. I basically say all that, and tell him that I really think it needs to be his decision. He mills it over for like 5 minutes.
By now Marsil is getting anxious to leave the store; he has his stuff and is ready to head to the check out. Then, all the sudden, Paul puts down the magazine and goes over and gets a little plastic dump truck. Like a toy suitable for a 5 year old, not Paul. And out of ear shot, Marsil starts making fun of him. I immediately correct Marsil telling him it's VERY wrong of him to judge how Paul spends his money. It's Paul's money; he can spend it any way he likes. (this, all out of ear shot of Paul). I'm thinking to myself it's a bit childish, but it's truly Paul's choice. Paul does buy the truck. Marsil still snickers behind his back.
We pay for it all and head out of the store. As we're leaving, Paul asks me to pull close to the parking attendant, and Paul proceeds to give the attendant some change. The attendant gladly accepts the change. (I'm thinking, okay, this is Paul's way of giving back. A good start.) Then, we get to a street corner, and a lady is begging, and Paul then gives some of the candy that Marsil had given him, to the lady. Okay, I'm now impressed. And I'm thinking where did the old Paul go??? First the monopoly game (read early post), now this!
BUT then.... Paul asks for the phone number of our housekeeper, Nigrita. Keep in mind Nigrita is making like around $120 US per month; very poor. I tell him I doubt she has a phone; she's very poor. Not only a poor family but has a young son of about 5 years old. I begin to put the picture together (at least, so I think). But, before I do, Paul asks, "Norm, if I do something good, do I have to tell you??" I tell him, if he does it in secret for the right reasons, then no he doesn't have to tell me. But, if he does it in secret because he knows it not being who God wants, then that's not a good reason for a secret. He's quiet the rest of the way home. That was last night.
Fast forward 24 hours. Tonight, at "family time", I ask Paul if he's decided on any more ways of sharing, thinking about the dump truck and pretty sure (but not certain) he bought it for the housekeeper's son. (Still thinking I have him figured out!) He tells me he knows I know his plans. I ask him to tell me and Marsil his plans anyway.
Paul proceeds to tell me he did talk with the housekeeper this afternoon (while I was gone) and gave the dump truck to her, for her little boy (about 5 years old). Paul tells me that Nigrita shared with him that her son is not doing well in school and is having other problems.
Paul tells Nigrita that he'll make a deal with her son..... If her son's behavior improves, each week he (Paul) will buy her son a special gift!!! This is all coming from a 12 year old boy named Paul!!
Seriously I'm about to fall out of my chair as he's telling me this story. Rarely have I seen anything like it. And perhaps it's just a short lived jesture (I hope not), but it's one of the most incredible things I've seen from any 12 year old. I ask him, where in the world did he get the idea to help her son. And he tells me, "From you Norm. If we do good, we get our money at the end of the week; I'm doing the same for Nigrita's son".
I have to confess the tears start rolling down my eyes. I have no idea if this blog can even begin to describe the scene. But this boy of 12 is showing me and his brother Marsil how to give. Marsil is now speechless himself. He now realizes the dump truck he made fun of Paul for buying was NEVER for Paul! I turn to Marsil and ask him what he thinks about all this. I see something in Marsil's eyes I don't think I've seen before. His is truly truly proud of his brother. (speechless and proud, for once).
I tell them both how extremely proud I am of them and how they've grown so much in two short months. Paul, for this season, has literally changed his life (and a little of mine). The former whiny, apparently self centered little boy has vanished. In his place is this incredibly generous kid. Still only 12, with all the perks and problems, but perhaps one of the most generous kids I've ever met at 12 years old.
Instead of buying anything at the store for himself, he ends up only buying something for Nigrita's son. Touching this kid's life. And, offering to help him in the future.
So for all you prayer warriors out there that have lifted Paul up. Please know that God has answered your prayers. In perhaps one of the most dramatic changes I've ever seen.
I could freak out about wondering if it will last. If they'll be different when I'm gone. But, I'm going to rest in knowing it was God, NOT Norm, that blessed and changed Paul heart, and He is still on the throne and will prayerfully continue to change Paul's heart, and mine.
The Paul I met when I got here was allllll about Paul. His every waking thought seemed to be about Paul. And it almost drove me crazy.
But, this kid that lives in this house now and goes by the name "Paul" doesn't even remind me of the other kid. Here's the story.... (long and blah blah)
I started an "earn your allowance" program. Similar to a program my parents did when I was young; I give Marsil and Paul each $7.5 USD in dominations of 5 pesos coins (which is a total of 250 pesos; 50 coins), at the beginning of the week (a HUGE amount of money for a kid in the DR;which really concerned me). However, each time there is a violation of a house/family rule, or misbehavior, or something that needs correcting, I take away pesos. Mostly at 5 peso increments, but up to 20 pesos at a time, based on the issue. At the end of the week, whatever money they (Paul and Marsil) have left, that's their allowance for that week, and it starts over again every week. At the end of this past week, Paul and Marsil got their first payment. Paul earned 155 pesos (lost 95 pesos), out of a possible 250 pesos. Marsil's was 185 pesos (lost 65 pesos), out of a possible 250 pesos.
After I gave them the money last night, I gave them a long (and probably boring) talk about how God blesses. How he's blessed them. How God has blessed me. How I believe God calls me to help others, and blesses me (in many ways) even more when I do help. I challenged them to consider giving a part of their allowance to someone, and do it in God's name. It could be church, a person in need, anyone they felt needed encouraging. And, this was strickly optional; voluntary. It was not a requirement or a rule; it was suggestion to merely show how they recognized God's blessing and their desire to bless others, as God has them. And, through it all, they had smirks on their faces and half laughing (typical reactions of a 12 and 15 year old), but I got through the "talk" and let it go. Hoping they heard a little of it for future reference.
We then headed to the store 'cause the money is burning a hole in their pockets (like me at their age). And I'm expecting candy, and cartoon magazines, and junk for themselves, right?? That's what I would have done; that's that I DID do when I was their age. We get to the store, and Marsil, instead of junk, buys basically school supplies!!! And spends ALL his money. He did buy some candy, but it was for his brother!!! Okay, I'm confused. But not surprised, because it's Marsil and that's typical impressive Marsil. But, the story gets better....
Paul has been talking about a magazine he's wanted to buy. And has looked forward to buying it all week. Mentioning it to me several times; his plans to buy this Pokemon magazine. He goes to get it at the store; thumbs through it and then asks me a question. "Norm, I need your advice, would you buy this magazine if you were me?" Hard question! For one, cartoons were never my bag and I'm 43. 12 years old was a long time ago. I basically say all that, and tell him that I really think it needs to be his decision. He mills it over for like 5 minutes.
By now Marsil is getting anxious to leave the store; he has his stuff and is ready to head to the check out. Then, all the sudden, Paul puts down the magazine and goes over and gets a little plastic dump truck. Like a toy suitable for a 5 year old, not Paul. And out of ear shot, Marsil starts making fun of him. I immediately correct Marsil telling him it's VERY wrong of him to judge how Paul spends his money. It's Paul's money; he can spend it any way he likes. (this, all out of ear shot of Paul). I'm thinking to myself it's a bit childish, but it's truly Paul's choice. Paul does buy the truck. Marsil still snickers behind his back.
We pay for it all and head out of the store. As we're leaving, Paul asks me to pull close to the parking attendant, and Paul proceeds to give the attendant some change. The attendant gladly accepts the change. (I'm thinking, okay, this is Paul's way of giving back. A good start.) Then, we get to a street corner, and a lady is begging, and Paul then gives some of the candy that Marsil had given him, to the lady. Okay, I'm now impressed. And I'm thinking where did the old Paul go??? First the monopoly game (read early post), now this!
BUT then.... Paul asks for the phone number of our housekeeper, Nigrita. Keep in mind Nigrita is making like around $120 US per month; very poor. I tell him I doubt she has a phone; she's very poor. Not only a poor family but has a young son of about 5 years old. I begin to put the picture together (at least, so I think). But, before I do, Paul asks, "Norm, if I do something good, do I have to tell you??" I tell him, if he does it in secret for the right reasons, then no he doesn't have to tell me. But, if he does it in secret because he knows it not being who God wants, then that's not a good reason for a secret. He's quiet the rest of the way home. That was last night.
Fast forward 24 hours. Tonight, at "family time", I ask Paul if he's decided on any more ways of sharing, thinking about the dump truck and pretty sure (but not certain) he bought it for the housekeeper's son. (Still thinking I have him figured out!) He tells me he knows I know his plans. I ask him to tell me and Marsil his plans anyway.
Paul proceeds to tell me he did talk with the housekeeper this afternoon (while I was gone) and gave the dump truck to her, for her little boy (about 5 years old). Paul tells me that Nigrita shared with him that her son is not doing well in school and is having other problems.
Paul tells Nigrita that he'll make a deal with her son..... If her son's behavior improves, each week he (Paul) will buy her son a special gift!!! This is all coming from a 12 year old boy named Paul!!
Seriously I'm about to fall out of my chair as he's telling me this story. Rarely have I seen anything like it. And perhaps it's just a short lived jesture (I hope not), but it's one of the most incredible things I've seen from any 12 year old. I ask him, where in the world did he get the idea to help her son. And he tells me, "From you Norm. If we do good, we get our money at the end of the week; I'm doing the same for Nigrita's son".
I have to confess the tears start rolling down my eyes. I have no idea if this blog can even begin to describe the scene. But this boy of 12 is showing me and his brother Marsil how to give. Marsil is now speechless himself. He now realizes the dump truck he made fun of Paul for buying was NEVER for Paul! I turn to Marsil and ask him what he thinks about all this. I see something in Marsil's eyes I don't think I've seen before. His is truly truly proud of his brother. (speechless and proud, for once).
I tell them both how extremely proud I am of them and how they've grown so much in two short months. Paul, for this season, has literally changed his life (and a little of mine). The former whiny, apparently self centered little boy has vanished. In his place is this incredibly generous kid. Still only 12, with all the perks and problems, but perhaps one of the most generous kids I've ever met at 12 years old.
Instead of buying anything at the store for himself, he ends up only buying something for Nigrita's son. Touching this kid's life. And, offering to help him in the future.
So for all you prayer warriors out there that have lifted Paul up. Please know that God has answered your prayers. In perhaps one of the most dramatic changes I've ever seen.
I could freak out about wondering if it will last. If they'll be different when I'm gone. But, I'm going to rest in knowing it was God, NOT Norm, that blessed and changed Paul heart, and He is still on the throne and will prayerfully continue to change Paul's heart, and mine.
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