It’s difficult to know exactly where to begin because I’ve learned more today than any amount of schooling could give me in the U.S. This morning, after our fabulous breakfast, we were welcomed at Church in an unexplainable way. Although most of us are complete strangers and out of our element in so many ways, we were accepted, hugged, loved.. and sort of “fit it”… which, honestly I never thought I’d be able to say I was happy and content sitting in Church for three hours… in 90 degree heat, listening to a language I don’t understand. Maybe it’s because children were asleep on our laps and compassion and love don’t have to be heard but felt. At the same time, I also learned today what so many people must feel when they’re exposed to our culture. I experienced what it feels like to be the “outcast”, the “people who don’t belong”, the people that are stared at being called names like “BLANC, BLANC” (white, white) because – if you’re blanc , you must have money and you’re not from here… Culturally, I am in a world very different from my own… but I don’t see a drastic difference in values when you look at what really matters. The man, Bernard who runs the hotel we’re staying at is celebrating his baby’s baptism as I’m writing this and because we’re staying here, “of course” we were invited and included in the seating for the “party”—not something I think would happen at home. But, the point is FAMILY, that is one value. Another, Education… I met and talked with people today that not only know English, but 3 or 4 other languages as well- and when you look at their living condition you wonder how is this even possible?... well the truth is, it is- and perhaps I’m ignorant to think it wasn’t?....God and Worship… is what gives people here the strength to endure what they have and to go on and get through every single day. SO… I began writing this not having any real plan on where it’d go but I guess I’ve come to at least one conclusion… The world would be a lot better of a place if everyone focused on all of the things WE (as people) have in common, without criticizing or making assumptions about differences. I’ll let other people write now. Hi Mom, Dad, Keith and Nick!! I LOVE YOUU!!! Dayna
INTERNET ISSUES AT HOTEL
We are having Internet issues at the hotel. We will try our best to keep the site up to date each day. Updates will be posted during the day while I (Chad) am at the Restore Center working on their computers. Thanks for checking in!! |