December 23, 2012
christmas parties
As promised, here are some pictures of our holiday parties with the women's groups. We shared a cake, Coca-Cola (of course) and some candy for the kids. We were also able to give each group some kitchen utensils and equipment for their businesses. We hope they will be put to good use!
December 15, 2012
glimpse of advent
Trying new things can be scary for anyone. I myself can testify to this when it comes to high ropes!
But learning new things, trying something you've never done before, and being adventurous for the sake of adventure are so highly valued in North American culture.
When I found myself surrounded by a group of women who were so afraid to learn a new skill, I was reminded again of this cultural difference. Although subtle, I think speaks a lot to why change is so hard to come by in this culture and country.
We were pleased to present one of our community groups with an industrial mixer this week as part of the year-end Christmas celebration (pictures/post to come later). It was an exciting moment, presenting the micro-enterprise with their first significant piece of equipment to increase production, and of course, revenues!
Being the only one with a basic knowledge of how a stand mixer works (thanks to my mom & sisters!) I was nominated to lead the training in how to operate the machine. I did my best, but every 3rd or 4th time, the mixer would not work. I was frustrated, under a bit of pressure (15 pairs of eyes, plus my boss, co-worker, church member, and a TV camera!) and unsure of what was going wrong.
Thankfully, a moment of insight led me to deduce that all security checks had to be in place or the paddle would not move. With that figured out, we wanted to have 3 or 4 women practice using the mixer from start to finish to ensure they knew how to use it.
It was like pulling teeth!
No one wanted to step up, and no one wanted to try it out.
They lady who lives where the mixer was going to be stationed was in the bathroom for about 15 minutes!
I marveled at how intimidating this process was for these women. Women who have known me and Ruth and Oscar for 2 years! Women who have invited us into their homes for coffee, snacks, and conversation. Women who have purchased their very own piece of land--from a bank account that started with 0 lempiras! I couldn't even compute why they were so scared to learn a new process that would help advance their business.
But I had to step back and recognize that it's not so easy for them. As much as they want to move forward, the new and unknown is exactly that--unknown--and it overwhelms them. While I was taught from a young age that the sky is the limit, they are raised with a stark reality that there are limits in life. The very geography of where they live limits them. The economic situation they are born into limits them. Their access to education has been limiting for them.
And I was brought back to why this process of formation is so important for the women we work with. You can't just throw money at them and expect things to change. It requires a lot of learning, re-learning, and learning from mistakes. Its a long, slow, often frustrating process of little baby steps.
But then one day...
you see a little spark of change.
It lets you know there is hope.
Hope that maybe these women will mark a difference in their lives and those of their children.
And that is a sweet glimpse of advent.
Right here, in all the darkness, the spark of hope that foretells of good things to come.
But learning new things, trying something you've never done before, and being adventurous for the sake of adventure are so highly valued in North American culture.
When I found myself surrounded by a group of women who were so afraid to learn a new skill, I was reminded again of this cultural difference. Although subtle, I think speaks a lot to why change is so hard to come by in this culture and country.
We were pleased to present one of our community groups with an industrial mixer this week as part of the year-end Christmas celebration (pictures/post to come later). It was an exciting moment, presenting the micro-enterprise with their first significant piece of equipment to increase production, and of course, revenues!
Being the only one with a basic knowledge of how a stand mixer works (thanks to my mom & sisters!) I was nominated to lead the training in how to operate the machine. I did my best, but every 3rd or 4th time, the mixer would not work. I was frustrated, under a bit of pressure (15 pairs of eyes, plus my boss, co-worker, church member, and a TV camera!) and unsure of what was going wrong.
Thankfully, a moment of insight led me to deduce that all security checks had to be in place or the paddle would not move. With that figured out, we wanted to have 3 or 4 women practice using the mixer from start to finish to ensure they knew how to use it.
It was like pulling teeth!
No one wanted to step up, and no one wanted to try it out.
They lady who lives where the mixer was going to be stationed was in the bathroom for about 15 minutes!
I marveled at how intimidating this process was for these women. Women who have known me and Ruth and Oscar for 2 years! Women who have invited us into their homes for coffee, snacks, and conversation. Women who have purchased their very own piece of land--from a bank account that started with 0 lempiras! I couldn't even compute why they were so scared to learn a new process that would help advance their business.
But I had to step back and recognize that it's not so easy for them. As much as they want to move forward, the new and unknown is exactly that--unknown--and it overwhelms them. While I was taught from a young age that the sky is the limit, they are raised with a stark reality that there are limits in life. The very geography of where they live limits them. The economic situation they are born into limits them. Their access to education has been limiting for them.
And I was brought back to why this process of formation is so important for the women we work with. You can't just throw money at them and expect things to change. It requires a lot of learning, re-learning, and learning from mistakes. Its a long, slow, often frustrating process of little baby steps.
But then one day...
you see a little spark of change.
It lets you know there is hope.
Hope that maybe these women will mark a difference in their lives and those of their children.
And that is a sweet glimpse of advent.
Right here, in all the darkness, the spark of hope that foretells of good things to come.
December 8, 2012
recently
The past few weeks have been crazy and quite stressful at work. But as always, I still find ways to have fun and unwind. Thought I would share some pictures of what I've been doing lately.
Over Thanksgiving I made a new friend here in Santa Rosa and through her have met a group of girls that I plan to meet with each week to do a book study. I'm really excited to build relationships with them and have been blessed already by knowing them in a few short weeks. I was able to enjoy some turkey and celebrate Thankgiving with these new friends.
The last day of November we had a fundraiser at church for the worship team. The money is going to help buy some new cords for mics and fix the drum set. We made "sopa de mondongo" that Hondurans love. I am NOT a fan (mondongo is tripe or cow intestines) but enjoyed the hectic-ness that is any church event. It was fun helping out prep veggies, prepare rice and tortillas to accompany the soup, and--I sold 15 plates!
And just yesterday Henry and I celebrated 1 year since our first date. He bought me dinner at an Italian restaurant here in town. We both had stressful, tiring weeks, so we just needed to unwind a little bit :)
Over Thanksgiving I made a new friend here in Santa Rosa and through her have met a group of girls that I plan to meet with each week to do a book study. I'm really excited to build relationships with them and have been blessed already by knowing them in a few short weeks. I was able to enjoy some turkey and celebrate Thankgiving with these new friends.
The last day of November we had a fundraiser at church for the worship team. The money is going to help buy some new cords for mics and fix the drum set. We made "sopa de mondongo" that Hondurans love. I am NOT a fan (mondongo is tripe or cow intestines) but enjoyed the hectic-ness that is any church event. It was fun helping out prep veggies, prepare rice and tortillas to accompany the soup, and--I sold 15 plates!
 |
| cooking the mondongo...yuk. |
Last weekend I taught Henry how to make sweet and sour meatballs:
And just yesterday Henry and I celebrated 1 year since our first date. He bought me dinner at an Italian restaurant here in town. We both had stressful, tiring weeks, so we just needed to unwind a little bit :)
November 28, 2012
bright spots
Last week was another roller-coaster ride of ups and downs in my work, but as I reflected on where I started more than a year ago and where the women's groups are today, I can't help but be thankful for where God has brought us and what he is teaching me.
In 2 different communities I led another session on how to avoid losing money in your business, and why selling on credit is bad for your business. It was a lesson adapted from the material I wrote in my first year in Teguc, and it went over better than I thought. It was pretty interactive with lots of stories and discussion questions, and the women in both groups participated enthusiastically with plenty of personal experiences to beef up my simple examples. I loved it! It is always so fun for me to interact with the women and feel like they are learning something, but also that they can recognize how much they already know and can apply to their fledgling enterprises.
Other exciting moments...
In one group, the women took seeds that ACDIM gave them a few weeks ago and they are already seeing sprouts in their small garden plots at the municipal office where they meet (yay for year round growing season!).
In the second group we visited, they were ready to purchase a piece of property where they can build a small structure for their bread-making business and other ventures. It was such a proud moment to see the women hand over 25,000 Lempiras (about $1250) of their own hard-earned, hard-fought money to pay the neighbor for a small plot of land. For them, it is a huge amount of money, and the fact that ACDIM did not give them one cent of it is pretty exciting. I told them they need to be proud of themselves for where they have come, and it's because of their own hard work and determination. To see the group start with 60 and work its way down to 14 or 15 faithful workers, to sit through trainings month after month, and now finally see some forward motion for their dedication--it's pretty awesome.
These moments help me remember why I am here and why I do this work. I care so much about these 4 groups of women and their well-being in the short and long term. They are up against a lot--don't get me wrong--and every week brings new obstacles. They need lots of things to keep their small businesses going, and we are doing the best we can with the little bit we have. We can't give them seed capital, or build them a building from the ground up.They face issues of division, pressure from other organizations who wish them ill, and any number of things that drag them down. But we are present with them, walking alongside them; not to pull or push (though sometimes, its hard not to!) but to encourage them, support them and offer what we have that may be of use to them. I never know what each week will bring, but it's the bright spots like this that help us keeping moving forward.
In 2 different communities I led another session on how to avoid losing money in your business, and why selling on credit is bad for your business. It was a lesson adapted from the material I wrote in my first year in Teguc, and it went over better than I thought. It was pretty interactive with lots of stories and discussion questions, and the women in both groups participated enthusiastically with plenty of personal experiences to beef up my simple examples. I loved it! It is always so fun for me to interact with the women and feel like they are learning something, but also that they can recognize how much they already know and can apply to their fledgling enterprises.
Other exciting moments...
In one group, the women took seeds that ACDIM gave them a few weeks ago and they are already seeing sprouts in their small garden plots at the municipal office where they meet (yay for year round growing season!).
In the second group we visited, they were ready to purchase a piece of property where they can build a small structure for their bread-making business and other ventures. It was such a proud moment to see the women hand over 25,000 Lempiras (about $1250) of their own hard-earned, hard-fought money to pay the neighbor for a small plot of land. For them, it is a huge amount of money, and the fact that ACDIM did not give them one cent of it is pretty exciting. I told them they need to be proud of themselves for where they have come, and it's because of their own hard work and determination. To see the group start with 60 and work its way down to 14 or 15 faithful workers, to sit through trainings month after month, and now finally see some forward motion for their dedication--it's pretty awesome.
These moments help me remember why I am here and why I do this work. I care so much about these 4 groups of women and their well-being in the short and long term. They are up against a lot--don't get me wrong--and every week brings new obstacles. They need lots of things to keep their small businesses going, and we are doing the best we can with the little bit we have. We can't give them seed capital, or build them a building from the ground up.They face issues of division, pressure from other organizations who wish them ill, and any number of things that drag them down. But we are present with them, walking alongside them; not to pull or push (though sometimes, its hard not to!) but to encourage them, support them and offer what we have that may be of use to them. I never know what each week will bring, but it's the bright spots like this that help us keeping moving forward.
November 22, 2012
thanksgiving post
Every year on this blog I have posted a post-thanksgiving post...I guess this year I will be on time. It is hard to believe I am posting about thanksgiving for the 3rd time--that I am in the midst of my 3rd year here in Honduras. What a ride!
The recent elections here in Honduras (almost concurrent with US elections) have been on my mind a lot as the contrast in democratic processes in each country gives me a lot to think about. I just read today that certain members of the "resistance" party running for local office were killed before the primary elections and it continues to make my heart heavy. Not only for the corruption in politics, but what little value is placed on life in this country. It can't help but make me eternally grateful for where I was born and raised, and even for the government and rule of law that I take for granted in the U.S.
But I guess this is getting to heavy for a holiday post, eh?
So, as I think about what I am thankful for this year, many things come to mind. Big things like safety, health and family. And little-r things like having an oven to make a Thanksgiving dessert and a warm down comforter at night when my bedroom is freezing!
I am grateful that I live in a part of Honduras where I can enjoy relative safety as I walk around town, that I can be outdoors in fresh air spaces and enjoy the rural countryside.
I am thankful for new opportunities for growth as I participate in the worship team at my church.
I am thankful for my family and how important they are in my life; that we could share a few days together last month, and that they will be able to visit me very SOON!
I am thankful for my boyfriend Henry and how God is working in our lives as we grow and learn together. And I am thankful he will be able to meet my mom and dad in January (not sure if he feels the same ;)
I am thankful for friends and co-workers in Honduras who enrich my life and help me learn, adapt and enjoy all the ups and downs of my experience here.
It is my hope that everyone reading has a great Thanksgiving, doing whatever it is that warms your heart and helps you take a moment to be thankful for what you have. Enjoy!
The recent elections here in Honduras (almost concurrent with US elections) have been on my mind a lot as the contrast in democratic processes in each country gives me a lot to think about. I just read today that certain members of the "resistance" party running for local office were killed before the primary elections and it continues to make my heart heavy. Not only for the corruption in politics, but what little value is placed on life in this country. It can't help but make me eternally grateful for where I was born and raised, and even for the government and rule of law that I take for granted in the U.S.
But I guess this is getting to heavy for a holiday post, eh?
So, as I think about what I am thankful for this year, many things come to mind. Big things like safety, health and family. And little-r things like having an oven to make a Thanksgiving dessert and a warm down comforter at night when my bedroom is freezing!
I am grateful that I live in a part of Honduras where I can enjoy relative safety as I walk around town, that I can be outdoors in fresh air spaces and enjoy the rural countryside.
I am thankful for new opportunities for growth as I participate in the worship team at my church.
I am thankful for my family and how important they are in my life; that we could share a few days together last month, and that they will be able to visit me very SOON!
I am thankful for my boyfriend Henry and how God is working in our lives as we grow and learn together. And I am thankful he will be able to meet my mom and dad in January (not sure if he feels the same ;)
I am thankful for friends and co-workers in Honduras who enrich my life and help me learn, adapt and enjoy all the ups and downs of my experience here.
It is my hope that everyone reading has a great Thanksgiving, doing whatever it is that warms your heart and helps you take a moment to be thankful for what you have. Enjoy!
November 15, 2012
360 degrees
Since I first came to Honduras, I have been committed to getting the "full" Honduran experience...or the 360 degree view, if you will.
Some days I'm not even trying so hard and these things just happen to me...
Exhibit A:
As any gringa in Honduras will tell you, it is not rare to have people stare at you, make inappropriate comments or make you feel uncomfortable for looking different. I should be used to the fact that I am 13 inches taller than the average Honduran. But--Honduras likes to keep me humble...
Walking home from the gym I passed a bolo (drunk) on the street and he says to me "Uy, usted es gigante" or in English "Wow, you are a giant." No matter how drunk the man was or how frequently I am called out for being tall, it always stings just a bit.
Exhibit B:
Exhibit A:
As any gringa in Honduras will tell you, it is not rare to have people stare at you, make inappropriate comments or make you feel uncomfortable for looking different. I should be used to the fact that I am 13 inches taller than the average Honduran. But--Honduras likes to keep me humble...
Walking home from the gym I passed a bolo (drunk) on the street and he says to me "Uy, usted es gigante" or in English "Wow, you are a giant." No matter how drunk the man was or how frequently I am called out for being tall, it always stings just a bit.
Exhibit B:
Just this week I went to the doctor for a minor skin irritation on my arm. All I wanted was a cream.
Did I just get the prescription for a cream?
Nope.
I got a shot--right in the hip. Talk about a sting!
It might be pertinent to know that Hondurans are obsessed with injections. No matter what the ailment, there is an injection that will (supposedly) cure you 10x faster than any pill or healthy eating regimen.
I got a shot--right in the hip. Talk about a sting!
It might be pertinent to know that Hondurans are obsessed with injections. No matter what the ailment, there is an injection that will (supposedly) cure you 10x faster than any pill or healthy eating regimen.
While the hip hurt the rest of the day and the injection site was rather tender, I did admit to a good friend that I can't help but feel I am one step closer to the full Honduran experience. I guess I'm still missing a few degrees to be able to say I've seen all 360.
November 5, 2012
heart-filled worship
Church has had its ups and downs for me throughout my time in Honduras. When I lived with my host family I felt obligated to attend a certain church and its ridiculously intensive weekly schedule of services.
Then there is the infamous church retreat that I posted about a few months ago that was very stressful in its own right, and left me pretty bitter about the way people are coerced into church attendance and spiritual experiences.
I often drag myself to services, without having my heart in the right place. Sometimes, if I humble myself enough to let go all of the distractions, frustrations and "different" ways of doing things, I am able to free myself to worship and learn something.
When I was home a few weeks ago, it was rejuvenating for me to attend my church in PA and worship in English, even sing songs that were new to me but had words projected so I could sing along. I felt at home in my pew, soaking it all in and even sharing in communion with my church community (something I rarely experience here in Santa Rosa).
But what I have slowly come to learn through all of these struggles--to find church community, find moments of worship and refreshment when sometimes all I want to do is run out of the church doors and crawl into my bed--is that it all depends on my attitude and my willingness to lay those frustrations and criticisms aside. I have to allow myself to be moved into a place where I can worship and appreciate the community I am part of for what it is.
A few months ago I was talked into practicing with and joining the worship team at my church in Santa Rosa. I had been resisting for awhile, but finally realized that not being involved in anything musical was a real void in my life here in Honduras, and maybe reason for feeling a void in my spiritual life. I have always loved music and find myself most connected to worship experiences through music.
It has not been easy, and I still wonder some days what I am doing, but I am enjoying the new challenge of it, and a new perspective on the church--literally (from the front platform) and figuratively. Leading others in worship has challenged me to consider where my heart is and how my own state of mind affects the ministry I am apart of. I am hopeful that this change will help me to have a more healthy perspective on the church and continue to teach me about a heart of worship.
Then there is the infamous church retreat that I posted about a few months ago that was very stressful in its own right, and left me pretty bitter about the way people are coerced into church attendance and spiritual experiences.
I often drag myself to services, without having my heart in the right place. Sometimes, if I humble myself enough to let go all of the distractions, frustrations and "different" ways of doing things, I am able to free myself to worship and learn something.
When I was home a few weeks ago, it was rejuvenating for me to attend my church in PA and worship in English, even sing songs that were new to me but had words projected so I could sing along. I felt at home in my pew, soaking it all in and even sharing in communion with my church community (something I rarely experience here in Santa Rosa).
But what I have slowly come to learn through all of these struggles--to find church community, find moments of worship and refreshment when sometimes all I want to do is run out of the church doors and crawl into my bed--is that it all depends on my attitude and my willingness to lay those frustrations and criticisms aside. I have to allow myself to be moved into a place where I can worship and appreciate the community I am part of for what it is.
A few months ago I was talked into practicing with and joining the worship team at my church in Santa Rosa. I had been resisting for awhile, but finally realized that not being involved in anything musical was a real void in my life here in Honduras, and maybe reason for feeling a void in my spiritual life. I have always loved music and find myself most connected to worship experiences through music.
It has not been easy, and I still wonder some days what I am doing, but I am enjoying the new challenge of it, and a new perspective on the church--literally (from the front platform) and figuratively. Leading others in worship has challenged me to consider where my heart is and how my own state of mind affects the ministry I am apart of. I am hopeful that this change will help me to have a more healthy perspective on the church and continue to teach me about a heart of worship.
October 27, 2012
home sweet home
As many of you already know [from seeing me live, in living color :) or seeing my pictures on Facebook] I just made a flying trip to the States and back in less than 2 weeks.
The main impetus for going to the States was to be part of the wedding celebration of a very dear friend, Paula and her (now) husband, Pete. Paula and I found each other at Messiah because of our major and mutual interests in travel, economic development and microfinance. What has held us together through college and beyond has been our shared sense of humor, love for adventures and a kindred-ness in all aspects of life. I love this girl and was thrilled to be able to share in the festivities of her wedding weekend.
The bonus of participating in the wedding was that it was in Pennsylvania, where I also know a lot of wonderful people...so I got to see many of them too! And my amazing family made the trip from other states to come and see me...triple bonus! It was also a beautifully chilly autumn week...quadruple bonus!
All in all, it was a jam-packed week of eating, talking, talking some more, eating, answering lots of awkward questions about Henry, eating more, dressing up, eating, driving around in a car, drinking and eating everything "pumpkin spice," and getting very little sleep. It was exactly what I wanted--I love spending time with people and that was all I had to do, for a whole 10 days! Although I did not have enough time with anybody, it was a great treat to catch up with each one.
As always, it is hard to jump back and forth quickly from one culture to the other. The first 3 days were a fog--I couldn't really believe I was in PA...then the last day, I didn't compute that vacation was over and I was going to be in Honduras so soon. It is a crazy feeling...and I still can't quite get over it. Part of me loved being "at home" in PA and being surrounded by so many people I love. But just as quickly, I was back in a taxi, speaking Spanish and I felt "at home" in a country I have come to know and love over the past 2 years.
My heart is continually split into little pieces, always longing to be where I am not. I guess it's partly of my own choosing but I also feel that it is where God has called me to be for now. So, I can't really decide what place to call "home" but instead carry pieces of home in my heart where ever I am. Thank you to each person who took time to see me, who paid for my coffee, who lent me a car, or just gave me a welcome back hug. I miss you. But I definitely missed Honduras too.
The bonus of participating in the wedding was that it was in Pennsylvania, where I also know a lot of wonderful people...so I got to see many of them too! And my amazing family made the trip from other states to come and see me...triple bonus! It was also a beautifully chilly autumn week...quadruple bonus!
All in all, it was a jam-packed week of eating, talking, talking some more, eating, answering lots of awkward questions about Henry, eating more, dressing up, eating, driving around in a car, drinking and eating everything "pumpkin spice," and getting very little sleep. It was exactly what I wanted--I love spending time with people and that was all I had to do, for a whole 10 days! Although I did not have enough time with anybody, it was a great treat to catch up with each one.As always, it is hard to jump back and forth quickly from one culture to the other. The first 3 days were a fog--I couldn't really believe I was in PA...then the last day, I didn't compute that vacation was over and I was going to be in Honduras so soon. It is a crazy feeling...and I still can't quite get over it. Part of me loved being "at home" in PA and being surrounded by so many people I love. But just as quickly, I was back in a taxi, speaking Spanish and I felt "at home" in a country I have come to know and love over the past 2 years.
My heart is continually split into little pieces, always longing to be where I am not. I guess it's partly of my own choosing but I also feel that it is where God has called me to be for now. So, I can't really decide what place to call "home" but instead carry pieces of home in my heart where ever I am. Thank you to each person who took time to see me, who paid for my coffee, who lent me a car, or just gave me a welcome back hug. I miss you. But I definitely missed Honduras too.
October 9, 2012
in print
This just in: my face can be found in the "On Assignment" corner of MCC's quarterly magazine A Common Place.
I am still waiting to get my copy in print (the mail is a bit slow in these parts...) and Oscar is eagerly awaiting to see my face in the magazine. I will have to translate the article for him, so of course I will make it sounds much more fantastic...and perhaps leave out the "challenges" part. Someone joked that I could have just listed him as my challenge ;)
Here is the online version if you want to check it out.
I'm excited that MCC Honduras got represented in the magazine, and that the work of ACDIM can be highlighted in this small way.
See the full thing here: http://acommonplace.mcc.org/acp/2012/10_12/on_assignment.html
I am still waiting to get my copy in print (the mail is a bit slow in these parts...) and Oscar is eagerly awaiting to see my face in the magazine. I will have to translate the article for him, so of course I will make it sounds much more fantastic...and perhaps leave out the "challenges" part. Someone joked that I could have just listed him as my challenge ;)
Here is the online version if you want to check it out.
I'm excited that MCC Honduras got represented in the magazine, and that the work of ACDIM can be highlighted in this small way.
Women’s development worker
I love seeing women take initiative and leadership . . .
— Charissa Zehr
Assignment: I work in Santa Rosa de Copán, Honduras, with the Christian Association for the Integral Development of Women, a small organization that provides capacity-building workshops and small business development for women’s groups in four rural communities.
See the full thing here: http://acommonplace.mcc.org/acp/2012/10_12/on_assignment.html
October 1, 2012
election season
Since the US in the the throes of political campaigning, I thought it may be time to mention election season in Honduras.
Right now Honduras is also in campaign season leading up to internal elections in November. This means each party will vote for who they want to run on the ballot in the national elections next year (2013) for the newly elected officials to take office in 2014.
Here is my disclaimer: I am still new to all of this, and learning what I can from the newspaper, my (left-leaning) co-worker, television, and our neighboring office that has become campaign headquarters and invites me over for coffee. [I will not tell you which party joked about changing my residency card so I could vote in the election!] I also enjoy the catchy commercials on TV and my personal favorite: vans that drive around town with speakers playing a reggaeton re-mix of a very popular song, but with lyrics that say "vote for Yani." Very original! But I digress...
Politics are sticky everywhere it seems, but there is a lot of passionate discourse in Honduras. There are several contributing factors:
1) Ever since the coup in 2009 where a wealthy oligarchy was blamed for ousting the "people's president," the country has been deeply, deeply divided. Red vs. blue doesn't just come into play on CNN's magical touch screen...it affects the color of t-shirt people wear to the office and the businesses they will patronize because of political leanings.
2) Corruption: Honduras is infamous on the world stage for a lack of transparency, political and judicial corruption, and a corrupt police force, to name a few things. Politicians are very, very, very mistrusted--at all levels. Corruption factors into even the smallest details of life here, but people just accept it because when politicians rob millions and millions from people who have next to nothing, where do you begin to fight back?
3) Insecurity: Mostly known for some pretty terrible human rights violations, having the highest murder rate per capita and an equally astounding rate of murders that are never investigated does not help Honduras' reputation.
4) Drug trafficking: Really, this encompasses the other 3, because all of these things are intertwined and cannot be separated from the massive amounts of drugs and money that are laundered through Honduras en route to North America. The devastating effects are seen in rural and urban areas. No community seems to be untouched by this reality.
These things (and many more) are constantly on the minds of Hondurans because they live with the reality day in and day out. It is not just a pick-pocket in the seedy part of the "big city"...it is not just a couple of politicians taking bribes to smooth over a new law...it is not a few teenagers selling pot in the park. It is really big stuff. It impacts every movement of every day...and people are sick of it.
Hondurans know change does not happen overnight because they've been living in this manner for a long time. They know that corruption has no easy fix because they've been seeing foreign investment dollars line the pockets of the (already) rich for decades. They know that gangs and drug trafficking will not disappear with a bit more military pressure because it has been taking over slowly and steadily for years.
But as with any sort of political season, there is some shadow of hope. People desperately hope their new party will propose solutions to even a few of these issues; that their leader will be the one to turn this country around. That their next vote will be for someone honest, who won't rob the tax coffers and will do something to tackle the economic situation of this country.
Isn't that what we all secretly get excited about with a fresh political voice? A new charismatic speaker? We hope that it will be the change we believe the country needs.
It breaks my heart to see all of these seemingly insurmountable issues and think "but how can it ever get any better?" But I see Hondurans who are fiercely loyal to their families and communities and they want to see change, if not for themselves, for the next generation. Anyone who lives here can't help but hope that this next election could spark something different, and start to turn the country around.
Right now Honduras is also in campaign season leading up to internal elections in November. This means each party will vote for who they want to run on the ballot in the national elections next year (2013) for the newly elected officials to take office in 2014.
Here is my disclaimer: I am still new to all of this, and learning what I can from the newspaper, my (left-leaning) co-worker, television, and our neighboring office that has become campaign headquarters and invites me over for coffee. [I will not tell you which party joked about changing my residency card so I could vote in the election!] I also enjoy the catchy commercials on TV and my personal favorite: vans that drive around town with speakers playing a reggaeton re-mix of a very popular song, but with lyrics that say "vote for Yani." Very original! But I digress...
Politics are sticky everywhere it seems, but there is a lot of passionate discourse in Honduras. There are several contributing factors:
1) Ever since the coup in 2009 where a wealthy oligarchy was blamed for ousting the "people's president," the country has been deeply, deeply divided. Red vs. blue doesn't just come into play on CNN's magical touch screen...it affects the color of t-shirt people wear to the office and the businesses they will patronize because of political leanings.
2) Corruption: Honduras is infamous on the world stage for a lack of transparency, political and judicial corruption, and a corrupt police force, to name a few things. Politicians are very, very, very mistrusted--at all levels. Corruption factors into even the smallest details of life here, but people just accept it because when politicians rob millions and millions from people who have next to nothing, where do you begin to fight back?
3) Insecurity: Mostly known for some pretty terrible human rights violations, having the highest murder rate per capita and an equally astounding rate of murders that are never investigated does not help Honduras' reputation.
4) Drug trafficking: Really, this encompasses the other 3, because all of these things are intertwined and cannot be separated from the massive amounts of drugs and money that are laundered through Honduras en route to North America. The devastating effects are seen in rural and urban areas. No community seems to be untouched by this reality.
These things (and many more) are constantly on the minds of Hondurans because they live with the reality day in and day out. It is not just a pick-pocket in the seedy part of the "big city"...it is not just a couple of politicians taking bribes to smooth over a new law...it is not a few teenagers selling pot in the park. It is really big stuff. It impacts every movement of every day...and people are sick of it.
Hondurans know change does not happen overnight because they've been living in this manner for a long time. They know that corruption has no easy fix because they've been seeing foreign investment dollars line the pockets of the (already) rich for decades. They know that gangs and drug trafficking will not disappear with a bit more military pressure because it has been taking over slowly and steadily for years.
But as with any sort of political season, there is some shadow of hope. People desperately hope their new party will propose solutions to even a few of these issues; that their leader will be the one to turn this country around. That their next vote will be for someone honest, who won't rob the tax coffers and will do something to tackle the economic situation of this country.
Isn't that what we all secretly get excited about with a fresh political voice? A new charismatic speaker? We hope that it will be the change we believe the country needs.
It breaks my heart to see all of these seemingly insurmountable issues and think "but how can it ever get any better?" But I see Hondurans who are fiercely loyal to their families and communities and they want to see change, if not for themselves, for the next generation. Anyone who lives here can't help but hope that this next election could spark something different, and start to turn the country around.
September 20, 2012
life-ful
When I lived in the
US, there were a lot of things I got used to having, doing and buying on a
regular basis. Moving to Honduras and living on an MCC budget has forced me to cut back and live with a lot
less, but in many healthy ways.
This is not to make
you think that I am above impulse purchases--that hard find, often dreamed of
chocolate bar that randomly shows up in the grocery store?? In the basket, in
under 2 seconds. Nor is this meant to give the impression that I live in
austerity. My life in Honduras is rich and varied, always with new things to be
discovered and joy to be found in surprises along the way.
Take for instance,
what used to be my morning drive to work…in my own car, with my own choice of
radio station, and climate controlled interior. A wonderful luxury to have my
own car, perhaps even a necessity in a place where public transportation is
very limited.
Now, I walk 3 blocks
to the office, assaulted by many noises, smells, and sights along the rutted
cobblestone street of Santa Rosa. Talking parrots at the corner, the smell of
fresh tortillas from the ladies down the block, hammering, sawing, taxi horns
and reggaeton music all meld together to serenade me on my way to work.
And when work requires
leaving town to head for the campo? Even better. Fresh air, the cool fog
leaving its mark on us as the moto slices through the mountain passes, dust,
cattle, trucks, bicycles, bright sunshine, shady coffee plantations and rolling
green hills set the backdrop for the ride.
My life here in
Honduras is a lot different than my life in the States…
Can I just google a
new restaurant on my iPhone and drive there for dinner?
Nope. I have to ask 4
different people if they’ve heard of the restaurant, and where (in their
opinion) it is located, then figure out where the former Copan Dry factory used
to be (that was at least 15 years ago) then locate Don Mario’s house that is a
block “up” from there, turn where the lady is usually selling tamales (is she
today? Who knows?) and hang a left…and maybe, if I’m lucky, I’ll find some kind
of restaurant (probably not the one I was looking for).
Can I just go to the
store and buy cottage cheese when I want cottage cheese?
Nope. I have to check 3 different grocery
stores (one requiring a taxi ride), scour the shelves for any kind of cheese or
cream that resembles cottage cheese, try to describe what cottage cheese is to
a Honduran store boy who has no idea what I’m talking about and finally resign
myself to finding a manageable substitute.
Can I just walk down
the road to clear my head and get some fresh air?
Nope. First of all, if there
is a road that doesn’t have much traffic and leads to a forested area, it’s
probably not safe. And as a female, if I walk anywhere, I am bombarded by
stares, cat-calls and general annoyance from most male presence.
Would I say there are
a lot of things I miss about living in the U.S.? Certainly.
Are they all necessary
to me living a full life? Not really.
Oh sure, there are
things that would make life easier, but there are so many things I enjoy about
life here. And despite all the drama, there
is a surprising amount of normalcy in my weekly routine. The ups and downs in
my job that everyone experiences on some level or another; sharing with friends
and co-workers the funny (and not so funny) moments in life; going to the gym, cleaning,
cooking and going to the movies. But what keeps me on my toes is the never ending
learning curve of living life in a culture that is not your own.
September 10, 2012
new and different
Every year brings new changes to our MCC team, mostly in the form of new service workers. We had to say good bye this year to the Stephens and the Troyers, but now we have been able to welcome new workers and get to know them.
But sometimes, you feel no different after you've done it. You think you will, but you don't.
Our September retreat for MCC Honduras was in the central location (central for all but me ;) of Siguatepeque. We were tucked away in a nice retreat center and were able to enjoy cooler temperatures and time together as a team.
What I was not aware of was this retreat center boasts a world-class co-op course and high ropes adventure course.
I would just like to say that in many years of liberal arts college-ing, camp counseling, admissions staff-ing and youth retreat-ing I have had my FAIR share of co-op courses. And I really really really don't need anything like high ropes. I would also like to preface this by saying that I had a bad experience my first weeks in Honduras with a tree, a hammock, and a nasty, um, tree-trapped situation.
So. Day 1, what do they want me to do?? Sit on the edge of a 8 meter high platform and "fall" off to swing and feel like I'm in a hammock. I tried to tell Kike (the guide, pronounced key-kay) that I would be much happier in a real hammock, about 2 feet off the ground, and still happy to reflect on taking risks and what we learn about trust from said situations...but he was not having it. I ALSO tried to get him to push me cuz I was too scared to throw myself off the ledge...and he told me firmly that he never pushes anyone. Ok Mr. I-eat-raw-eggs-for-breakfast-and-probably-walk-on-high-ropes-with-no-safety-ropes. You are of no help to me in my moment of need.
But since I had already climbed the 7 meter ricktey ladder that only Hondurans would tell you is completely safe, I had no choice. I wasn't going back down that thing!
So I fell off the ledge.
And I screamed.
And I was terrified.
And then I sat in a swing for a few minutes to take in the view.
And the little assistant man was like: "ok, but really...you liked it right? "
"NO!" I firmly responded, not smiling.
And it was in this moment I realized...I have spent a lot of my life pushing myself to do scary things. To step out of my comfort zone. To be brave and try something that makes me tremble inside.
But sometimes, you feel no different after you've done it. You think you will, but you don't.
And I've just decided that I'm not an adrenaline junky, and I don't like heights.
So eat that for breakfast, Kike!
Fast Forward to Day 2. Our whole team is to participate in the high ropes team building activities.
I was sick to my stomach. I was praying for rain. I wanted to do ANYTHING but that course.
Thankfully, life is not always as it is in summer camp, and you can say no. And people will respect you.
So, I calmly declined (after chatting with my supervisors) and was content to swallow my fear and watch all of my MCC colleagues from below. On terra firme. Oh, but of course I took lots of photos.
So, I calmly declined (after chatting with my supervisors) and was content to swallow my fear and watch all of my MCC colleagues from below. On terra firme. Oh, but of course I took lots of photos.
Being brave is important. But knowing your limits can also be just as important. And I think I grew a lot in finally giving myself permission to be afraid and say "no. not this time!"
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| before the fall, with my newly un-afraid adrenaline junky "twin" Elise |
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| the longest climb OF MY LIFE. |
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| on the platform, kickin' it with with Keeks...we aren't really friends. |
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| after the "fall" swinging around "enjoying" the view. but check that face. I am cosa seria! |
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| to give you an idea of how the platform was ON THE SIDE OF A FREAKING MOUNTAIN |
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| after the fall, had the feeling back in my hands, enjoying time with Mari, a new MCC friend from Nicaragua |
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| Mari's fall. It's about a 1/4 second after that you feel the ropes holding you |
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| having fun with co-op games |
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| the high ropes course!! |
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| the brave ones. I am SO INCREDIBLY PROUD OF YOU ALL! |
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| they had the hardest climb to get to "starting" point. Of course, Kike was their team leader... |
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| a fall. exactly what I didnt want to happen to me. but she pulled through. so proud of Emily!! |
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| one small step.... |
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| repelling down to safety ;) |
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| 2 happy 2 be done... 1 wanting more.... |
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| our new MCC team for 2012-2013 :) love you all! |
September 7, 2012
county fair
It's been a busy week and a half and I just wanted to share some pictures and updates.
The month of August is the annual fair in Santa Rosa and it has a lot of traditions. I was able to go the last weekend and enjoy some time at the fair with Henry and his family. I also took in a parade and a "carrera de cintas" or a "tape race" (ok, doesn't really translate).
It was fun to eat some good fair food, play the shooting game (yes, I rocked it, much to Henry's dismay) and take in the local tradition of an old-fashioned campesino horse race.
All in all it was a fun weekend, though I was still battling my cold. I enjoy having new and interesting things to do that don't happen every day. The race with horses lasted several long hours...but at least it was some good clean fun in the pueblo.
Coming later...updates and photos from our MCC team retreat this past week.
The month of August is the annual fair in Santa Rosa and it has a lot of traditions. I was able to go the last weekend and enjoy some time at the fair with Henry and his family. I also took in a parade and a "carrera de cintas" or a "tape race" (ok, doesn't really translate).
It was fun to eat some good fair food, play the shooting game (yes, I rocked it, much to Henry's dismay) and take in the local tradition of an old-fashioned campesino horse race.
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| chuleta at the fair...complete with mariachi band serenade |
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| i know, so pacifistic, right?? |
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| having fun at the shooting game |
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| his "annoyed" face when I was doing better than him ;) |
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| we won so many prizes! and they are all lame! |
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| with Henry's parents at the fair |
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| Henry and Oscar...about to enjoy the horse "race" |
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| setting up the rope for the race...very official |
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| there were so many horses from the campo... |
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| setting up the rings on little velcro "hooks." The contestants take a running start and try to get their "pencil" through one of the rings to win a prize. |
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| its hard to catch good action shots, but this is much harder than it looks. |
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| lunging for the prize |
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| enjoying some cotton candy |
Coming later...updates and photos from our MCC team retreat this past week.
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