Anthony Presents
Lutheran World Travels
Part 3
Greetings,
It is amazing how fast another month has gone by. It has been three month since I have left Chicago and yet it feels like it was just yesterday that I was sitting in room with many other eager volunteers learning what it means to be a part of global missions in the 21st century and the finer points of the Sonya Lindquist’s philosophy of “Stranger Danger”. Now we are out in the world serving and starting to feel settled in our placements and work.
Our third month of service comes to us in November. This is a great time of year, the leaves have changed and you get to enjoy all the different colours and smells. Dad is dreading putting up the Christmas lights and the Concordia College Christmas Concert rehearsals are in full swing. As we get towards the end of every November we take time to celebrate Thanksgiving. It is the time when you get together with family and over indulge in the fine cuisine of the pilgrims; turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and lefse. It is also a time of great wonder, is this the year you might actually burst a button eating too much of Mom’s world famous stuffing. It is also a time when you find that you are strategizing for the big shopping day. The early morning invasion of the mall is looming and you need to be the first one to buy one of the new NASCAR jerseys for the dog this year (it’s a real product). But, the most important thing is that this is a time for giving thanks for things that you are grateful for.
Even though I was not at home for all these seasonal changes and the fine pilgrim cuisine at Thanksgiving, I am thankful for the opportunity that I have been given to serve as a part of the Young Adults in Global Mission. I am also thankful for the love and support of family, friends and the Church, as I have embarked out on this yearlong journey. Finally, the thing that I am most thankful for is that as I have left one loving community, another has opened arms and accepted me.
Many Blessings to you all.
Anthony
Soli Deo Gloria
Monday, December 10, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
November Newsletter - James in Argentina
November. “Do you like life?” I was asked tonight by my friend as we sat and drank mate at her house. When I started my normal speech of the things I enjoy doing and dreams I have, she stopped me, and clarified by saying the question again. “Do you like life? Not your life James, who wouldn’t like your life, you’ve been all over, you are talented, no, Do you like life, sickness, hatred, hunger, and everything that is involved in the human condition” I walked around the barrio after that question in a sort of stunned state. I looked at my surroundings and saw the dirt roads after rain the night before that are impassable now. I thought of the shack homes of pieces of wood and scrap metal that I see as I take the bus to and from the barrio, without water or electricity. I thought about the Toba Indians that are dying of hunger every day here in the Chaco, and I pondered this question. I am almost embarrassed sometimes to talk about how easy my life has been. It is hard to demonstrate to someone that you understand that life is hard, when they tell you that they were hit everyday as a child, and when they ask you about your life you can only answer that your parents love you move than anything in the world. It is hard to show you understand when a 26 year old woman tells you about the three jobs she works to provide for her mother, grandmother, and aunt on top of studying in college. The money I’ve made from working has gone towards vacations, clothes, and coffee shops.
There is so much joy here though, as much as I have seen in anyplace I have been. Kids still laugh at every opportunity. People love to dance, ohh how they love to dance. People help each other, and we talk about how fun falling in love is. In the horrible oppression that this world offers up, most from other humans and their actions, people always find opportunities to laugh and to love. Dancing all night on a dirt patio, watching kids draw and color for hours, drinking mate and talking for hours, being shown a drum set that is made from scrap metal and wood, people sharing food with me, Sunday dinners where they stay and talk for the rest of the day talking after the meal. These are all things that I have seen in the midst of poverty, that make me think that I do like life.
We are going to be painting the mural this week finally. After 2 months of planning and designing I finally feel so horribly unprepared that it could only be the right time to start. We are planning on having the kids do most of the painting with the adults just supervising and helping out in tough situations. It will be a test to see if I have learned the virtues of my supervisor Ofelia as I attempt to trust forty 4-15 year olds with buckets of paint and brushes. I think it will be a real rallying point of the barrio, as I still hear stories of the past mural that was painted 6 years ago. I’m really excited for the first day of going to the barrio after it is finished, turning the corner, and seeing the explosion of color on the wall. Wow that will feel good.
I help set the table now. It is a wonderful thing being the guest in a house, but after about 6 months of always being the guest in places I am very content assuming the role of member of the meal instead of the reason for the meal. I normally bring some sort of food to the lunches and dinners now, and I love knowing where the dishes are, so I can set the table before they can ask me. As I begin to miss home, new homes are opening up to me, and treating me like family. It is a very exciting time in the life of a traveler as I prepare for Christmas and the New Year, filled with odd traditions and even odder food. Case in point, I consumed cow intestine and wanted to cry a little bit. With that I will leave you all. Feliz navidad, enjoy the snow, which I really miss as I type this sweating, enjoy family, enjoy life.
There is so much joy here though, as much as I have seen in anyplace I have been. Kids still laugh at every opportunity. People love to dance, ohh how they love to dance. People help each other, and we talk about how fun falling in love is. In the horrible oppression that this world offers up, most from other humans and their actions, people always find opportunities to laugh and to love. Dancing all night on a dirt patio, watching kids draw and color for hours, drinking mate and talking for hours, being shown a drum set that is made from scrap metal and wood, people sharing food with me, Sunday dinners where they stay and talk for the rest of the day talking after the meal. These are all things that I have seen in the midst of poverty, that make me think that I do like life.
We are going to be painting the mural this week finally. After 2 months of planning and designing I finally feel so horribly unprepared that it could only be the right time to start. We are planning on having the kids do most of the painting with the adults just supervising and helping out in tough situations. It will be a test to see if I have learned the virtues of my supervisor Ofelia as I attempt to trust forty 4-15 year olds with buckets of paint and brushes. I think it will be a real rallying point of the barrio, as I still hear stories of the past mural that was painted 6 years ago. I’m really excited for the first day of going to the barrio after it is finished, turning the corner, and seeing the explosion of color on the wall. Wow that will feel good.
I help set the table now. It is a wonderful thing being the guest in a house, but after about 6 months of always being the guest in places I am very content assuming the role of member of the meal instead of the reason for the meal. I normally bring some sort of food to the lunches and dinners now, and I love knowing where the dishes are, so I can set the table before they can ask me. As I begin to miss home, new homes are opening up to me, and treating me like family. It is a very exciting time in the life of a traveler as I prepare for Christmas and the New Year, filled with odd traditions and even odder food. Case in point, I consumed cow intestine and wanted to cry a little bit. With that I will leave you all. Feliz navidad, enjoy the snow, which I really miss as I type this sweating, enjoy family, enjoy life.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Acting 4 England November Newsletter - Kristin in the UK
Images of Jesus in England
Two weeks ago I had a visit with my field officer from Time for God. As we entered a room in the church that I've never been in before, I was shocked to see this painting on the wall:
While in Costa Rica last January with Susquehanna University, I studied this painting while looking at Images of Jesus in Central America. Jacques Chery's painting illustrates how the branches and roots of Christ's word spread throughout many ways of our daily lives from helping the poor and sick, to being with family, to war. I was so surprised and overwhelmed to find this painting in the church that I'm working in. My time in England is obviously a lot different then the short time I spent in Central America but I have been able to find images of Jesus here in Potters Bar and Act 4.
Last Saturday about 150 people showed up for an Act 4 Family Praise Party. Even though I was exhausted from arriving at the church early, rehearsing three hours with children to perform at the event and rehearsing with the band, the energy and excitement in the room during the one-hour program was awesome! Seeing so many people, from toddlers to elderly, up on their feet, singing and dancing was great! The children's performance brought so much happiness and joy to the people in the audience.
One child performing in the group was Massie. Every Tuesday I work with a group of primary school children teaching them theater and music and every Tuesday I work with Massie. Massie often never participates in group activities, either spending time in the corner sucking her thumb by herself or wanting to do everything and not allowing other children to participate. Most of the time, I find myself getting really frustrated with her. I hear myself saying "Massie- come join us!" or "Massie- let the others have a chance!" or "Massie- please be quiet" or "Massie- stop running around!" or "Massie- please listen!"
On Saturday, Massie performed in the Family Praise Party but two minutes before it started Massie was in tears! She did not want to perform, she wanted to sit with her mum and the only way I could convince her to participate was reminding her that she was going to wave the pink flag in one of the songs. By the end of the program, Sam asked all the children to pull an adult out on the floor to sing the final song. From across the room, Massie ran to me with a huge grin on her face, took my hand to stand in the front of the audience to sing "All we need to do to be good is to treat each other fairly and love all we should!" Of all the children in the room, Massie is the last child that I would ever expect to pick me to sing a song with her.
While visual images of Jesus are scarce here in England, I see Jesus through the children that I work with and meet. I have found in many ways that children are more accepting of me then some adults and children have such a spirit in them of how "to be good, treat each other fairly and love all we should," just like Jesus.
Meet Alan Doel: Tuesday Youth Club Volunteer
How long have you been volunteering with the Tuesday club and what do you do?
I have been with the Tuesday Youth Club for six years and I work with the WarHammer group. WarHammer is a game using toy soldiers that attempts to replicate a battle situation with dice as an element of chance. It is a very strategic game and is a cross between chess and toy soldiers.
What called you to work with the young people in Potters Bar?
I was invited and I've got a background as a Scout Leader. Doing things with boys is a natural expression of church activities.
What has been your favorite memory working with the club?
When you see the boys in the street you know you've got a friendship with them which I hope will continue after they leave the club. I have been seeing the same boys for a long time now and it's really great to not only advise them in the game but in life as well.
How do you think this club is helping the boys?
I think it shows that the church really does care for them. It is a small long term investment in what the church should be doing more of. I also wonder how many boys have a father at home. How many dads are missing? I enjoy being a male role model for the boys.
Act 4 Performance Team
One new group that I have formed is the Act 4 Performance Team. This is a group of children who are passionate about helping the Act 4 Team with certain events such as Family Praise Parties, Holiday Clubs and the annual Town Carol Service.
I help out at this club every Tuesday. I create lesson plans for each rehearsal, teach songs with choreography, introduce fun games and work with the children on bits of drama. One thing that I love about this club is getting to meet and develop relationships with some of the children who I see in the schools. I see so many children each week that it's really hard for me to get to know any of them on an individual basis and this club really allows me to do that.
The Performance Team had their debut on Saturday during the Family Praise Party and it was a great success!
What Are You Waiting For?
This half term's assembly theme is "What Are You Waiting For?" We ask the children "Is there something you feel you should do that you haven't yet done?" After being in 26 schools this half term, I have heard everything from riding an elephant to sending First Aid kits to Africa. Each of us has something we feel we should do but haven't yet done and there are many obstacles that get in the way of us accomplishing these things.
The children see a drama about the Three Kings who see a star in the sky and just don't know what to do. Instead of looking, wondering and singing many rounds of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" the Kings set off on a journey to discover more. They find that it is a messenger star telling the birth of a baby, a special baby, a King amongst Kings. Having found this out, they pack their bags and go and meet this new King!
My favorite part of the assembly is the very end when I help Abraham, one of the Act 4 puppets, in a Christmas Rap. Taking Eminem's "Loose Yourself" rap, we change the lyrics, sing and dance (see page 3 for the chorus). It's pretty entertaining and a few weeks ago a 5 year-old boy told me I was the best rapper he's ever seen! Maybe I should go join Eminem when I get back to the states?
Divided By A Common Language
New words I learned this month:
Cloak Room: Half Bath
Full Stop: Period.
Post Code: Zip Code
Queque: line
Jacket Potato: Baked Potato
Savoury Biscuit: Cracker
Ladybird: Ladybug
Abraham's Christmas Rap
Eminem's Loose Yourself
"Christmas ain't about unwrapping presents, It's about a little baby who came down from Heaven. He made this world a great place to be, so now it's time to live in Harmony!"
My Sense of England
I touched lots of 1pence sweets when I spent some of my money at the tuck shop during the Friday Youth Club.
I tasted my first Mince Pie at a Christmas Craft event at Christ Church.
I heard the spectators scream and cheer during my first English Rugby Game at Oundle School.
I smelled chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy on Thanksgiving Day. I was happy that at least I had a bird to eat, even if it wasn't a turkey!
I saw my ELCA friends at a retreat in London where we talked and shared stories about our experiences so far! It was a great weekend and I really enjoyed seeing everyone!
-- Cheers!
Kristin
Two weeks ago I had a visit with my field officer from Time for God. As we entered a room in the church that I've never been in before, I was shocked to see this painting on the wall:
While in Costa Rica last January with Susquehanna University, I studied this painting while looking at Images of Jesus in Central America. Jacques Chery's painting illustrates how the branches and roots of Christ's word spread throughout many ways of our daily lives from helping the poor and sick, to being with family, to war. I was so surprised and overwhelmed to find this painting in the church that I'm working in. My time in England is obviously a lot different then the short time I spent in Central America but I have been able to find images of Jesus here in Potters Bar and Act 4.
Last Saturday about 150 people showed up for an Act 4 Family Praise Party. Even though I was exhausted from arriving at the church early, rehearsing three hours with children to perform at the event and rehearsing with the band, the energy and excitement in the room during the one-hour program was awesome! Seeing so many people, from toddlers to elderly, up on their feet, singing and dancing was great! The children's performance brought so much happiness and joy to the people in the audience.
One child performing in the group was Massie. Every Tuesday I work with a group of primary school children teaching them theater and music and every Tuesday I work with Massie. Massie often never participates in group activities, either spending time in the corner sucking her thumb by herself or wanting to do everything and not allowing other children to participate. Most of the time, I find myself getting really frustrated with her. I hear myself saying "Massie- come join us!" or "Massie- let the others have a chance!" or "Massie- please be quiet" or "Massie- stop running around!" or "Massie- please listen!"
On Saturday, Massie performed in the Family Praise Party but two minutes before it started Massie was in tears! She did not want to perform, she wanted to sit with her mum and the only way I could convince her to participate was reminding her that she was going to wave the pink flag in one of the songs. By the end of the program, Sam asked all the children to pull an adult out on the floor to sing the final song. From across the room, Massie ran to me with a huge grin on her face, took my hand to stand in the front of the audience to sing "All we need to do to be good is to treat each other fairly and love all we should!" Of all the children in the room, Massie is the last child that I would ever expect to pick me to sing a song with her.
While visual images of Jesus are scarce here in England, I see Jesus through the children that I work with and meet. I have found in many ways that children are more accepting of me then some adults and children have such a spirit in them of how "to be good, treat each other fairly and love all we should," just like Jesus.
Meet Alan Doel: Tuesday Youth Club Volunteer
How long have you been volunteering with the Tuesday club and what do you do?
I have been with the Tuesday Youth Club for six years and I work with the WarHammer group. WarHammer is a game using toy soldiers that attempts to replicate a battle situation with dice as an element of chance. It is a very strategic game and is a cross between chess and toy soldiers.
What called you to work with the young people in Potters Bar?
I was invited and I've got a background as a Scout Leader. Doing things with boys is a natural expression of church activities.
What has been your favorite memory working with the club?
When you see the boys in the street you know you've got a friendship with them which I hope will continue after they leave the club. I have been seeing the same boys for a long time now and it's really great to not only advise them in the game but in life as well.
How do you think this club is helping the boys?
I think it shows that the church really does care for them. It is a small long term investment in what the church should be doing more of. I also wonder how many boys have a father at home. How many dads are missing? I enjoy being a male role model for the boys.
Act 4 Performance Team
One new group that I have formed is the Act 4 Performance Team. This is a group of children who are passionate about helping the Act 4 Team with certain events such as Family Praise Parties, Holiday Clubs and the annual Town Carol Service.
I help out at this club every Tuesday. I create lesson plans for each rehearsal, teach songs with choreography, introduce fun games and work with the children on bits of drama. One thing that I love about this club is getting to meet and develop relationships with some of the children who I see in the schools. I see so many children each week that it's really hard for me to get to know any of them on an individual basis and this club really allows me to do that.
The Performance Team had their debut on Saturday during the Family Praise Party and it was a great success!
What Are You Waiting For?
This half term's assembly theme is "What Are You Waiting For?" We ask the children "Is there something you feel you should do that you haven't yet done?" After being in 26 schools this half term, I have heard everything from riding an elephant to sending First Aid kits to Africa. Each of us has something we feel we should do but haven't yet done and there are many obstacles that get in the way of us accomplishing these things.
The children see a drama about the Three Kings who see a star in the sky and just don't know what to do. Instead of looking, wondering and singing many rounds of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" the Kings set off on a journey to discover more. They find that it is a messenger star telling the birth of a baby, a special baby, a King amongst Kings. Having found this out, they pack their bags and go and meet this new King!
My favorite part of the assembly is the very end when I help Abraham, one of the Act 4 puppets, in a Christmas Rap. Taking Eminem's "Loose Yourself" rap, we change the lyrics, sing and dance (see page 3 for the chorus). It's pretty entertaining and a few weeks ago a 5 year-old boy told me I was the best rapper he's ever seen! Maybe I should go join Eminem when I get back to the states?
Divided By A Common Language
New words I learned this month:
Cloak Room: Half Bath
Full Stop: Period.
Post Code: Zip Code
Queque: line
Jacket Potato: Baked Potato
Savoury Biscuit: Cracker
Ladybird: Ladybug
Abraham's Christmas Rap
Eminem's Loose Yourself
"Christmas ain't about unwrapping presents, It's about a little baby who came down from Heaven. He made this world a great place to be, so now it's time to live in Harmony!"
My Sense of England
I touched lots of 1pence sweets when I spent some of my money at the tuck shop during the Friday Youth Club.
I tasted my first Mince Pie at a Christmas Craft event at Christ Church.
I heard the spectators scream and cheer during my first English Rugby Game at Oundle School.
I smelled chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy on Thanksgiving Day. I was happy that at least I had a bird to eat, even if it wasn't a turkey!
I saw my ELCA friends at a retreat in London where we talked and shared stories about our experiences so far! It was a great weekend and I really enjoyed seeing everyone!
-- Cheers!
Kristin
Friday, December 7, 2007
November/December Newsletter - Crystal in Scotland
November Newsletter…
October has come and gone in a blink of an eye. It ends on some sorrow as my Canadian roommate, Erin, is leaving to go home. Erin has been my rock over the last couple of months listening to my gripes and reassuring me or telling me to wake up and smell the roses when I needed it. There has been many a night that the two of us have stayed up way too late talking about religion and God, boys and life in general. I would love to tell you we have come to some profound conclusion, but in some ways I am just as confused. Erin is 4’11” on a good day but that little package has such a lively spirit. She constantly has a smile on her face even after our late night chats and the kids just adore her. So, I am really sad to see her leave since in two months she has made such an indelible impression on my life. It is funny how God sometimes places people in your lives at just the right moment.
This month has allowed me to do some more touristy things. I spent a weekend in Edinburgh visiting other ELCA YAGM’s, Anna and celebrate Matt’s Birthday. We had perfect weather to walk around and explore everything from the Royal Mile to Calton Field. We saw everything from William Wallace, to a young girl being knighted and a bike race. Another weekend, I stayed closer to home but still had a grand adventure by taking the day to see Scone Palace (YES… we even had scones and tea…). Scone plays an important part in Scottish history since it was where most of the Scottish Kings were crowned including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. However, the best part was when Erin and I missed the bus and we started walking home. It was splendid since the trees have begun to change color to intense yellows, reds and oranges. The day had been pretty misty and grey but cleared up enough for a gorgeous dusty pink sunset.
Scars have been a plenty this month. Joe (one of the instructors) turned 21 early this month so we had a massive ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee). Imagine the wildest country line dancing with boys swinging girls around and lifting you off of you feet before you even know what is happening and you might have a ceilidh. The dancing is so energetic I broke my sandals and ended up with bruises on my arms from my shoulder to my elbow. However, it was the best time of my life and I can’t wait to try it again at the Glen Ball (the social event of the season in Glenshee where I live). However, I am not so excited about having to cover up my new scar that I got for trying to learn how to play rugby with the boys. I was going up for the catch, however the ball went long and knocked into a tree branch which fell directly on my forehead leaving a golf ball size lump and a nice little scratch. Even, more disappointing England lost to France. A couple of day later, I went out for a run in a t-shirt and a guy pulled over and asked me if I was okay since I look liked I had been mauled between my head and arms.
WoW! It is hard to believe that November is at a close as well. November was a time of many firsts. I missed my first American Thanksgiving and my Compass friends tried to help me overcome my homesickness with some champagne, cheese, crackers, and chocolate and a movie. However, it was the snow on Thanksgiving that gave me the most pleasure. Living in Florida, we don’t have many snowy Thanksgivings. We have had a number of days that is has snowed; however, the snow had not been sticking to the ground except for on the highest mountain tops. It is so nice to wake up to a winter wonderland with snow glistening on tree branches and the fence line separating our property from the cattle and sheep next door. The entire Glen is hoping for a good snow this year since the economy of the Glen is supported by our little ski slopes. The saying in Scotland is that if you can ski Scotland than you can ski anywhere. Well, I am looking forward to hopefully giving it a try. A lot of the instructors are certified as ski and or snowboard instructors and I have had a number of offers for lessons so I am hoping to have a chance to take them up on the offer.
The beginning of November started with a bang with the Glen Ball and a trip to London for an ELCA YAGM Retreat. The Glen Ball is the social event of the year. Everyone comes together to raise money for the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service at the local Restaurant and Hotel, The Spittal. They auctioned off a year supply of wood and little things such as whiskey (Scots don’t call it scotch… it is whiskey), chocolates, stuffed animals, amongst other things. We were treated to the best food. We tasted oysters, salmon, prawns, various pates (chicken, salmon, liver), pasta salad and salad for a starter then it was onto traditional Scottish main courses like venison, beef with haggis, mashed potatoes, carrots and cauliflower. You then spent the rest of the night dancing off all the food you had just consumed. Since this is no small affair the boys are decked out in kilts and girls in ball gowns. I have to say that the boys looked absolutely magnificent and out shone us girls in their regalry. Then with less than 2 hours of sleep, it was a 2 hour drive to Glasgow to catch a flight to London to join all the other UK Young Adults in Global Mission at Conference. The weekend in London was a whirlwind of catching up with all the other YAGMs and how they were doing at their placements. We went ice skating at Alexandra Palace and talked about our experience so far. A lot of it was spent talking about the differences between the Lutherans beliefs and our experiences here. I have not had the chance to attend a lot of churches since we work on weekends a lot of time, however the few times that I have it has been a completely new experience. I have witnessed a baptism by submersion in Glasgow (we are talking a full dunking-head to toe dripping wet and all the baptism recipients were at least 20 years of age) and in Perth a service that allowed people to direct the service with their divine inspirations from the bible or a song that relates to the scriptures. I have enjoyed listening and witnessing differences between various denominations because I relish the fact that deep down we all believe the same thing. I have also enjoyed listening to the other opinions about what they believe to be the interpretation of the bible. Sometimes, I am taken aback such as when we got to a discussion of tai chi, yoga, and pilates and also, the Freemason and the belief that Eastern arts can have a negative influence on Christians and that the Freemasons were an evil secret society that was basically a cult. While I don’t concur with the opinions, I could respect their beliefs; however I will not personally be giving up my yoga or pilates classes anytime soon.
The beginning of November has ushered in a new season at the centre with most of our guest coming on weekends, it allows for everyone to have the same days off. So, the girls have gone on shopping and haircut excursion to Dundee. It also means that we get a different variety of work. I am now an expert painter, sander, and climber of scaffolding. I am now certified in First Aid, specializing in outdoor situations and a Food Hygiene Awardee meaning that I can now cook for our guests and staff. I am hoping to get through all my days without having to put my First Aid skills to use, however, I don’t think I will be so lucky with my Food Hygiene. I have already cooked twice for staff and some guests, though they were not exactly the works of a Cordon Bleu chef, they were edible and enjoyed. Considering I spent my university years avoiding cooking and younger years enjoying the fine dining my Mother had to offer, it was a nice surprise that I received some compliments on my food. November also gave me the opportunity to meet staff from other outdoor centers in Scotland at the annual SCOC (Scottish Christian Outdoor Conference) held at our home. It meant a couple of days of fun and laughter especially when we did a photo scavenger hunt around the Glen. This was where we had a list of 50 things to take pictures of our group doing various things or at various places. My favorite was climbing a tree, being mannequins in a store window (we were mannequin in a liqueur store in Pitlochry), and bribing a poor man to let some cute girls sit in his BMW sports car so that we could get 5 points. While, my group didn’t win we gave everyone a run for their money, which considering none of us had ever done a Photo scavenger hunt in the Glen and some of our competition had, coming in 4th was not bad.
Well, I must retire…I am being called to away for a Game of Settlers of Catan (a favorite among the staff for wasting the night away with friendly competition is bring out with its monopoly and risk like characteristics.) Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all! Treasure all the moments with your loved ones!
God Bless from Scotland!
Crystal
October has come and gone in a blink of an eye. It ends on some sorrow as my Canadian roommate, Erin, is leaving to go home. Erin has been my rock over the last couple of months listening to my gripes and reassuring me or telling me to wake up and smell the roses when I needed it. There has been many a night that the two of us have stayed up way too late talking about religion and God, boys and life in general. I would love to tell you we have come to some profound conclusion, but in some ways I am just as confused. Erin is 4’11” on a good day but that little package has such a lively spirit. She constantly has a smile on her face even after our late night chats and the kids just adore her. So, I am really sad to see her leave since in two months she has made such an indelible impression on my life. It is funny how God sometimes places people in your lives at just the right moment.
This month has allowed me to do some more touristy things. I spent a weekend in Edinburgh visiting other ELCA YAGM’s, Anna and celebrate Matt’s Birthday. We had perfect weather to walk around and explore everything from the Royal Mile to Calton Field. We saw everything from William Wallace, to a young girl being knighted and a bike race. Another weekend, I stayed closer to home but still had a grand adventure by taking the day to see Scone Palace (YES… we even had scones and tea…). Scone plays an important part in Scottish history since it was where most of the Scottish Kings were crowned including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. However, the best part was when Erin and I missed the bus and we started walking home. It was splendid since the trees have begun to change color to intense yellows, reds and oranges. The day had been pretty misty and grey but cleared up enough for a gorgeous dusty pink sunset.
Scars have been a plenty this month. Joe (one of the instructors) turned 21 early this month so we had a massive ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee). Imagine the wildest country line dancing with boys swinging girls around and lifting you off of you feet before you even know what is happening and you might have a ceilidh. The dancing is so energetic I broke my sandals and ended up with bruises on my arms from my shoulder to my elbow. However, it was the best time of my life and I can’t wait to try it again at the Glen Ball (the social event of the season in Glenshee where I live). However, I am not so excited about having to cover up my new scar that I got for trying to learn how to play rugby with the boys. I was going up for the catch, however the ball went long and knocked into a tree branch which fell directly on my forehead leaving a golf ball size lump and a nice little scratch. Even, more disappointing England lost to France. A couple of day later, I went out for a run in a t-shirt and a guy pulled over and asked me if I was okay since I look liked I had been mauled between my head and arms.
WoW! It is hard to believe that November is at a close as well. November was a time of many firsts. I missed my first American Thanksgiving and my Compass friends tried to help me overcome my homesickness with some champagne, cheese, crackers, and chocolate and a movie. However, it was the snow on Thanksgiving that gave me the most pleasure. Living in Florida, we don’t have many snowy Thanksgivings. We have had a number of days that is has snowed; however, the snow had not been sticking to the ground except for on the highest mountain tops. It is so nice to wake up to a winter wonderland with snow glistening on tree branches and the fence line separating our property from the cattle and sheep next door. The entire Glen is hoping for a good snow this year since the economy of the Glen is supported by our little ski slopes. The saying in Scotland is that if you can ski Scotland than you can ski anywhere. Well, I am looking forward to hopefully giving it a try. A lot of the instructors are certified as ski and or snowboard instructors and I have had a number of offers for lessons so I am hoping to have a chance to take them up on the offer.
The beginning of November started with a bang with the Glen Ball and a trip to London for an ELCA YAGM Retreat. The Glen Ball is the social event of the year. Everyone comes together to raise money for the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service at the local Restaurant and Hotel, The Spittal. They auctioned off a year supply of wood and little things such as whiskey (Scots don’t call it scotch… it is whiskey), chocolates, stuffed animals, amongst other things. We were treated to the best food. We tasted oysters, salmon, prawns, various pates (chicken, salmon, liver), pasta salad and salad for a starter then it was onto traditional Scottish main courses like venison, beef with haggis, mashed potatoes, carrots and cauliflower. You then spent the rest of the night dancing off all the food you had just consumed. Since this is no small affair the boys are decked out in kilts and girls in ball gowns. I have to say that the boys looked absolutely magnificent and out shone us girls in their regalry. Then with less than 2 hours of sleep, it was a 2 hour drive to Glasgow to catch a flight to London to join all the other UK Young Adults in Global Mission at Conference. The weekend in London was a whirlwind of catching up with all the other YAGMs and how they were doing at their placements. We went ice skating at Alexandra Palace and talked about our experience so far. A lot of it was spent talking about the differences between the Lutherans beliefs and our experiences here. I have not had the chance to attend a lot of churches since we work on weekends a lot of time, however the few times that I have it has been a completely new experience. I have witnessed a baptism by submersion in Glasgow (we are talking a full dunking-head to toe dripping wet and all the baptism recipients were at least 20 years of age) and in Perth a service that allowed people to direct the service with their divine inspirations from the bible or a song that relates to the scriptures. I have enjoyed listening and witnessing differences between various denominations because I relish the fact that deep down we all believe the same thing. I have also enjoyed listening to the other opinions about what they believe to be the interpretation of the bible. Sometimes, I am taken aback such as when we got to a discussion of tai chi, yoga, and pilates and also, the Freemason and the belief that Eastern arts can have a negative influence on Christians and that the Freemasons were an evil secret society that was basically a cult. While I don’t concur with the opinions, I could respect their beliefs; however I will not personally be giving up my yoga or pilates classes anytime soon.
The beginning of November has ushered in a new season at the centre with most of our guest coming on weekends, it allows for everyone to have the same days off. So, the girls have gone on shopping and haircut excursion to Dundee. It also means that we get a different variety of work. I am now an expert painter, sander, and climber of scaffolding. I am now certified in First Aid, specializing in outdoor situations and a Food Hygiene Awardee meaning that I can now cook for our guests and staff. I am hoping to get through all my days without having to put my First Aid skills to use, however, I don’t think I will be so lucky with my Food Hygiene. I have already cooked twice for staff and some guests, though they were not exactly the works of a Cordon Bleu chef, they were edible and enjoyed. Considering I spent my university years avoiding cooking and younger years enjoying the fine dining my Mother had to offer, it was a nice surprise that I received some compliments on my food. November also gave me the opportunity to meet staff from other outdoor centers in Scotland at the annual SCOC (Scottish Christian Outdoor Conference) held at our home. It meant a couple of days of fun and laughter especially when we did a photo scavenger hunt around the Glen. This was where we had a list of 50 things to take pictures of our group doing various things or at various places. My favorite was climbing a tree, being mannequins in a store window (we were mannequin in a liqueur store in Pitlochry), and bribing a poor man to let some cute girls sit in his BMW sports car so that we could get 5 points. While, my group didn’t win we gave everyone a run for their money, which considering none of us had ever done a Photo scavenger hunt in the Glen and some of our competition had, coming in 4th was not bad.
Well, I must retire…I am being called to away for a Game of Settlers of Catan (a favorite among the staff for wasting the night away with friendly competition is bring out with its monopoly and risk like characteristics.) Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all! Treasure all the moments with your loved ones!
God Bless from Scotland!
Crystal
Thursday, December 6, 2007
November Newsletter - Sarah in Mexico
Sarah's November Newsletter
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I write this month’s newsletter with a profound sense of gratitude for life and all the giftedness that surrounds me. November has been a challenging month, but the faith, learning, and reflections that grow out of such challenge are deep, empowering and energizing. I’ve got three months under my belt and can see more clearly every day the way Mexico is becoming home to me.
The Power of Remembering…
“Nothing can make up for the absence of someone whom we love, and it would be wrong to try to find a substitute; we must simply hold out and see it through. That sounds very hard at first, but at the same time it is a great consolation, for the gap, as long as it remains unfilled, preserves the bonds between us. It is nonsense to say that God fills the gap; God doesn't fill it, but on the contrary, God keeps it empty and so helps us to keep alive our former communion with each other, even at the cost of pain.”
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The past month has been greatly affected by the sudden and inexplicable death of my dear friend, Katherine Olson. The separation and loneliness in Mexico has never been more real than the weeks that followed news of her death. I felt alone in my grief and yearned to be in the presence and comfort of family and friends. Though the longing to go home was very real, the call to stay here and share the journey of grief with my Mexican brothers and sisters was just as real. And it has been sheer gift to witness the way friends, strangers, and co-workers have reached out and strengthened me. I’ve been part of many powerful conversations that have freed me to be honest and helped me to see gifts of life and love. It’s clear that my vulnerability hasn’t turned people away, but has rather given many the freedom and comfort to share with me their stories of grief, pain, and weakness. Though the language difference sometimes feels like it has the power to isolate and hinder understanding, experiences of pain and death do not. Our mortality is a part of our being human—no matter our culture, language, religion, or social class. By sharing all the emotions that come with grief—tears, anger, questions, memories and love, the constructed boundaries of language and culture seem to dissolve, and our common humanity becomes so clear. Those are the most beautiful moments… when I look into the eyes of someone in Mexico and see myself.
Not only have the people in Mexico greatly supported me, but their culture and traditions have also brought deep healing and peace. One of the most powerful experiences for me has been the celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Celebrated on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 1 and 2), Dia de los Muertos is a holiday in which Mexicans recognize deceased family and friends through colorful ofrendas (offerings), lively reunions at the cemetery, festive food, and traditional ceremonies. The holiday has its roots in pre-Hispanic culture, but today demonstrates a mix of indigenous and Christian traditions. Some Mexicans retain the traditional belief that the spirits of the dead actually pay a visit to the home during these days; others see it as a special time to remember and give thanks for the lives and legacy of the departed. Regardless, it is a day that creates space for remembering, sharing, and giving thanks.
The most widespread traditions of Dia de los Muertos are the building of ofrendas and the decorating of family burial sites at the cemetery. To create an ofrenda, families clear off a table in their home and cover it with bright orange marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, colorful cutout paper, and traditional sweet bread called pan de muerto. They also often include photos of their loved ones and a collection of their ancestors’ “favorites.” Books, quotes, games, cigarettes, tequila, fruits, and huge platters of chicken molé, tamales, beans, and tortillas are very common. Those who go to the cemetery usually make it an all day affair, decorating the grave with flowers and candles and feasting on the favorite foods and drinks of the dead. I was able to visit the cemetery in the afternoon—it was absolutely alive with people, flowers, firecrackers, blow horns, mariachi bands, candles, and tons of food! Quite a contrast for those of us accustomed to a solemn, formal, reserved ambience around the grave.
Though the customs and interpretations surrounding this holiday vary widely between families and regions, Dia de los Muertos clearly invites Mexicans to face, talk about, even celebrate human mortality. A fundamental belief in this culture is that, at any moment, we are just as close to life as we are to death; therefore, death is not something to ignore or fear, but something to acknowledge and embrace. Because Mexicans see death as the beginning of a new life, the mood of this holiday is vibrant, celebratory, and hopeful!
Dia de los Muertos couldn’t have been more timely, as Katherine died just days before. In no way could I have anticipated the way an unfamiliar holiday would speak to me so personally. On the day of Katherine’s funeral, the other YAGM volunteers and I gathered at Heidi’s apartment to take some time to remember. The traditions of Dia de los Muertos gave us a powerful and communal way to grieve, remember, and celebrate, as we decided to construct our own ofrenda. We covered Heidi’s dining room table with the traditional Mexican adornments and then added the names and favorite things of loved ones who have died recently. We took a couple hours to sit around the ofrenda and tell stories, cry, be silent, laugh, listen, pray. I shared some of my most treasured memories of both Katherine and Grandpa Roy, and it felt so helpful to have space in which to talk about them. One of the neatest parts was seeing the way in which the objects and photos on the ofrenda helped us recall special stories and personality quirks of each person. To keep those relationships and legacies alive is such a good, necessary part of grieving and healing. I think we unfortunately avoid talking about death and those who have died for fear of discomfort and tears, not recognizing how healthy it is to share our memories with others. I found deep, deep peace in taking part in the traditions of Dia de los Muertos, and hope it is a celebration I am able to continue when I return home.
No such thing as noise violations…
One of the most joyful parts about living in a foreign country is noticing and delighting in the small things. In many ways I feel like I’m viewing the world with the eyes and interest of a child. I’m more curious, observant, gullible, clueless, inquisitive, and easily amused. It’s a great way to live! These are some of the sights and sounds that grace my days in the neighborhood of Chipitlan...A precious man that’s got to be around 75 years old walks through the streets selling sweet bread from his gigantic sombrero every morning. He strolls at a pretty relaxed clip and hunches over in order to keep his sombrero level. It’s adorable. A friendly woman down the street makes homemade corn tortillas all day every day, and there’s something about the sound of her hands patting the dough back and forth that I just love. Because there is no such thing as scheduled “garbage pick-up” or “gas drop-off” days, we receive word that the trucks are in the neighborhood in a few untraditional ways: sometimes the drivers incessantly strike a loud, metal bell with a mallet, sometimes they use an unremitting horn or siren, and other times they play a recorded song, speech, or radio program out of a megaphone on top of the truck. It still feels awfully irritating and inefficient to me, but it works just fine here—scheduled pick-up days would probably be a complete disaster! Around 8:20 p.m. every night, the tamales man comes around the corner on his bicycle. He pulls a cart full of two huge pots of tamales and signals his arrival by singing “tamales” with absolute gusto—always with the same rhythm and same two pitches. You don’t have to know me very long to know I’m not much of an animal person, so it’s taking me awhile to adjust to the abundance of domestic and stray animals in the neighborhood. As I write this, I hear dogs barking, roosters screeching, our pet bird chomping on sunflower seeds, and a lizard squeaking in the corner of my room. They still give me the heebee-jeebies, but I’m developing tough skin and trying to move toward a place of gracious acceptance. I spend a good chunk of my evenings at Katie and Marce’s house (Katie’s another YAGM volunteer and Marce is her host mom). One of my favorite parts of being there is the sense of noisy and disruptive community that abounds in her street and home. The door is NEVER closed when she is home, and friends and neighbors pass by more often than I blink my eyes. We can hardly get through a conversation without someone yelling “Buenos días” from the alley, or stopping in to buy a kilo of sausage from Marce. To Marce, these interruptions are not inconvenient or annoying; they don’t slow her up from carrying on with her day—they are her day and her life and she wouldn’t want it any other way.
So, needless to say, the neighborhood is not quiet! I can’t help but think about how many times we would report “excessive noise” to the police if the same commotion occurred in our neighborhoods. Sometimes the noise still seems rude to me, like a violation of personal space and privacy, but that’s not even on the radar screen of most who live here. It’s not that Mexicans don’t value and respect personal space, but it’s that they value relationship and community just as greatly. It’s helping me see the way true communal living requires a willingness to be interrupted and needed at times when it’s not necessarily convenient.
And, yes, I do go to work…
Sometimes I get so caught up in my cultural experiences and personal reflections that I forget to mention my daily work in Mexico. Ha! I do go to work every day, though my jobs are anything but predictable and routine. In the past few months, I have accompanied Nuvia, a psychologist at CIDHAL, to technical high schools to lead sessions on sexuality and health, I’ve attended the presentation of a prestigious statewide award to Maestra Teodola, the charming woman with whom I work most closely in Coatetelco, I’ve made quesadillas with Lore, the custodian at CIDHAL, to serve to participants during one of our workshops, I’ve attended meetings with Maria Luisa to plan the annual cultural and fish fair in Coatetelco, I’ve led aerobics for a group of senior citizens in an indigenous community, I’ve assisted Paty, an architect, as she works with the construction of cisterns in Cuentepec, I’ve translated many articles and documents on gender and health, and I’ve listened to lots and lots and lots of stories. Much of my time has been spent in observation and conversation, and the relationships and learning that have grown out of that have been truly wonderful. I’m reaching the point in my experience where I feel more ready for direction and responsibility, so I’m in the midst of putting together a few projects with my supervisors. My hope is to facilitate workshops with Mexican and American young women through CIDHAL, and to help in recording the stories of the indigenous women in both communities I visit weekly. Though it’s challenging to not have a defined role or purpose, there’s incredible freedom to be creative and adventurous, and I love that every day is different than the last.
Peace and joy to all of you in this holiday season. As much as I am relishing in the beautiful “eternal spring” weather of Cuernavaca, I have to admit I am a bit nostalgic for snow, apple cider, Christmas carols, scarves, and homemade soup. It just doesn’t seem right to see Christmas lights on palm trees and plastic nativity sets on grass!
Know you are missed and dearly loved.
Peace,
Sarah
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I write this month’s newsletter with a profound sense of gratitude for life and all the giftedness that surrounds me. November has been a challenging month, but the faith, learning, and reflections that grow out of such challenge are deep, empowering and energizing. I’ve got three months under my belt and can see more clearly every day the way Mexico is becoming home to me.
The Power of Remembering…
“Nothing can make up for the absence of someone whom we love, and it would be wrong to try to find a substitute; we must simply hold out and see it through. That sounds very hard at first, but at the same time it is a great consolation, for the gap, as long as it remains unfilled, preserves the bonds between us. It is nonsense to say that God fills the gap; God doesn't fill it, but on the contrary, God keeps it empty and so helps us to keep alive our former communion with each other, even at the cost of pain.”
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The past month has been greatly affected by the sudden and inexplicable death of my dear friend, Katherine Olson. The separation and loneliness in Mexico has never been more real than the weeks that followed news of her death. I felt alone in my grief and yearned to be in the presence and comfort of family and friends. Though the longing to go home was very real, the call to stay here and share the journey of grief with my Mexican brothers and sisters was just as real. And it has been sheer gift to witness the way friends, strangers, and co-workers have reached out and strengthened me. I’ve been part of many powerful conversations that have freed me to be honest and helped me to see gifts of life and love. It’s clear that my vulnerability hasn’t turned people away, but has rather given many the freedom and comfort to share with me their stories of grief, pain, and weakness. Though the language difference sometimes feels like it has the power to isolate and hinder understanding, experiences of pain and death do not. Our mortality is a part of our being human—no matter our culture, language, religion, or social class. By sharing all the emotions that come with grief—tears, anger, questions, memories and love, the constructed boundaries of language and culture seem to dissolve, and our common humanity becomes so clear. Those are the most beautiful moments… when I look into the eyes of someone in Mexico and see myself.
Not only have the people in Mexico greatly supported me, but their culture and traditions have also brought deep healing and peace. One of the most powerful experiences for me has been the celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Celebrated on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 1 and 2), Dia de los Muertos is a holiday in which Mexicans recognize deceased family and friends through colorful ofrendas (offerings), lively reunions at the cemetery, festive food, and traditional ceremonies. The holiday has its roots in pre-Hispanic culture, but today demonstrates a mix of indigenous and Christian traditions. Some Mexicans retain the traditional belief that the spirits of the dead actually pay a visit to the home during these days; others see it as a special time to remember and give thanks for the lives and legacy of the departed. Regardless, it is a day that creates space for remembering, sharing, and giving thanks.
The most widespread traditions of Dia de los Muertos are the building of ofrendas and the decorating of family burial sites at the cemetery. To create an ofrenda, families clear off a table in their home and cover it with bright orange marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, colorful cutout paper, and traditional sweet bread called pan de muerto. They also often include photos of their loved ones and a collection of their ancestors’ “favorites.” Books, quotes, games, cigarettes, tequila, fruits, and huge platters of chicken molé, tamales, beans, and tortillas are very common. Those who go to the cemetery usually make it an all day affair, decorating the grave with flowers and candles and feasting on the favorite foods and drinks of the dead. I was able to visit the cemetery in the afternoon—it was absolutely alive with people, flowers, firecrackers, blow horns, mariachi bands, candles, and tons of food! Quite a contrast for those of us accustomed to a solemn, formal, reserved ambience around the grave.
Though the customs and interpretations surrounding this holiday vary widely between families and regions, Dia de los Muertos clearly invites Mexicans to face, talk about, even celebrate human mortality. A fundamental belief in this culture is that, at any moment, we are just as close to life as we are to death; therefore, death is not something to ignore or fear, but something to acknowledge and embrace. Because Mexicans see death as the beginning of a new life, the mood of this holiday is vibrant, celebratory, and hopeful!
Dia de los Muertos couldn’t have been more timely, as Katherine died just days before. In no way could I have anticipated the way an unfamiliar holiday would speak to me so personally. On the day of Katherine’s funeral, the other YAGM volunteers and I gathered at Heidi’s apartment to take some time to remember. The traditions of Dia de los Muertos gave us a powerful and communal way to grieve, remember, and celebrate, as we decided to construct our own ofrenda. We covered Heidi’s dining room table with the traditional Mexican adornments and then added the names and favorite things of loved ones who have died recently. We took a couple hours to sit around the ofrenda and tell stories, cry, be silent, laugh, listen, pray. I shared some of my most treasured memories of both Katherine and Grandpa Roy, and it felt so helpful to have space in which to talk about them. One of the neatest parts was seeing the way in which the objects and photos on the ofrenda helped us recall special stories and personality quirks of each person. To keep those relationships and legacies alive is such a good, necessary part of grieving and healing. I think we unfortunately avoid talking about death and those who have died for fear of discomfort and tears, not recognizing how healthy it is to share our memories with others. I found deep, deep peace in taking part in the traditions of Dia de los Muertos, and hope it is a celebration I am able to continue when I return home.
No such thing as noise violations…
One of the most joyful parts about living in a foreign country is noticing and delighting in the small things. In many ways I feel like I’m viewing the world with the eyes and interest of a child. I’m more curious, observant, gullible, clueless, inquisitive, and easily amused. It’s a great way to live! These are some of the sights and sounds that grace my days in the neighborhood of Chipitlan...A precious man that’s got to be around 75 years old walks through the streets selling sweet bread from his gigantic sombrero every morning. He strolls at a pretty relaxed clip and hunches over in order to keep his sombrero level. It’s adorable. A friendly woman down the street makes homemade corn tortillas all day every day, and there’s something about the sound of her hands patting the dough back and forth that I just love. Because there is no such thing as scheduled “garbage pick-up” or “gas drop-off” days, we receive word that the trucks are in the neighborhood in a few untraditional ways: sometimes the drivers incessantly strike a loud, metal bell with a mallet, sometimes they use an unremitting horn or siren, and other times they play a recorded song, speech, or radio program out of a megaphone on top of the truck. It still feels awfully irritating and inefficient to me, but it works just fine here—scheduled pick-up days would probably be a complete disaster! Around 8:20 p.m. every night, the tamales man comes around the corner on his bicycle. He pulls a cart full of two huge pots of tamales and signals his arrival by singing “tamales” with absolute gusto—always with the same rhythm and same two pitches. You don’t have to know me very long to know I’m not much of an animal person, so it’s taking me awhile to adjust to the abundance of domestic and stray animals in the neighborhood. As I write this, I hear dogs barking, roosters screeching, our pet bird chomping on sunflower seeds, and a lizard squeaking in the corner of my room. They still give me the heebee-jeebies, but I’m developing tough skin and trying to move toward a place of gracious acceptance. I spend a good chunk of my evenings at Katie and Marce’s house (Katie’s another YAGM volunteer and Marce is her host mom). One of my favorite parts of being there is the sense of noisy and disruptive community that abounds in her street and home. The door is NEVER closed when she is home, and friends and neighbors pass by more often than I blink my eyes. We can hardly get through a conversation without someone yelling “Buenos días” from the alley, or stopping in to buy a kilo of sausage from Marce. To Marce, these interruptions are not inconvenient or annoying; they don’t slow her up from carrying on with her day—they are her day and her life and she wouldn’t want it any other way.
So, needless to say, the neighborhood is not quiet! I can’t help but think about how many times we would report “excessive noise” to the police if the same commotion occurred in our neighborhoods. Sometimes the noise still seems rude to me, like a violation of personal space and privacy, but that’s not even on the radar screen of most who live here. It’s not that Mexicans don’t value and respect personal space, but it’s that they value relationship and community just as greatly. It’s helping me see the way true communal living requires a willingness to be interrupted and needed at times when it’s not necessarily convenient.
And, yes, I do go to work…
Sometimes I get so caught up in my cultural experiences and personal reflections that I forget to mention my daily work in Mexico. Ha! I do go to work every day, though my jobs are anything but predictable and routine. In the past few months, I have accompanied Nuvia, a psychologist at CIDHAL, to technical high schools to lead sessions on sexuality and health, I’ve attended the presentation of a prestigious statewide award to Maestra Teodola, the charming woman with whom I work most closely in Coatetelco, I’ve made quesadillas with Lore, the custodian at CIDHAL, to serve to participants during one of our workshops, I’ve attended meetings with Maria Luisa to plan the annual cultural and fish fair in Coatetelco, I’ve led aerobics for a group of senior citizens in an indigenous community, I’ve assisted Paty, an architect, as she works with the construction of cisterns in Cuentepec, I’ve translated many articles and documents on gender and health, and I’ve listened to lots and lots and lots of stories. Much of my time has been spent in observation and conversation, and the relationships and learning that have grown out of that have been truly wonderful. I’m reaching the point in my experience where I feel more ready for direction and responsibility, so I’m in the midst of putting together a few projects with my supervisors. My hope is to facilitate workshops with Mexican and American young women through CIDHAL, and to help in recording the stories of the indigenous women in both communities I visit weekly. Though it’s challenging to not have a defined role or purpose, there’s incredible freedom to be creative and adventurous, and I love that every day is different than the last.
Peace and joy to all of you in this holiday season. As much as I am relishing in the beautiful “eternal spring” weather of Cuernavaca, I have to admit I am a bit nostalgic for snow, apple cider, Christmas carols, scarves, and homemade soup. It just doesn’t seem right to see Christmas lights on palm trees and plastic nativity sets on grass!
Know you are missed and dearly loved.
Peace,
Sarah
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