La Paz- Peace

La Paz in Spanish means " peace." What is great about this trip is the amount of peace from strangers. 

In the Middle East, Africa, and Asia- peace is interrupted with....


*Someone thinks you're pretty
*Someone who wants to sell you something,
*Someone who wants to talk because     you're American
*Someone who wants to be annoying,
*Someone who wants your attention
*Someone who thinks they love you
*Someone trying to lead you to accommodation 
*Someone called a "Taxi Driver!"

Perhaps, I am just referring to the high levels of annoyance and No peace in Egypt and Morocco.
Regardless, this post is to give recognition to these peaceful countries: Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua- Belize is not quite at the peaceful level of the other three, but it's pretty good.
  
La Paz, peace, is one of the most beautiful things a traveler could ever be given. The fancy resorts, the expensive food, the big tours-nothing compares to this one word-peace.  

It's significant to mention the fact that I do look Latin American so people may not bother me as much, but I did not see this happening with other tourists nor did I hear any complaints from Anyone. 

Also, people who knew I was American still did not annoy me. They allowed me to have the peace I deserve. What kinds of peace? The physical, mental, and spiritual peace that human beings deserve, especially during travel.    These people were not trying to manipulate you with money(yes few occasions). They did not follow you around when you were shopping. They did not holler at you, make inappropriate gestures, or treat you like a dog.  They don't fall in love in 5 seconds(well most of them;) People are just nice, honest, love to laugh, love to smile, keep you smiling, and they are genuine. They don't sugarcoat themselves. 

It must be said that all these countries are primarily Christian except for Belize(league of it's own).  The Christian religion believes in respect, peace, and love. It's not a culture that supports such negative behaviors in public. 

There could be a whole study done with many different factors, but overall I am just beyond thankful for La Paz. My appreciation overflows from my heart to have these times to ride my bike, sit on the beach quietly, read a book in peace, write in a café day by day, church, and taking a hike. People will engage in conversation, but they know when to stop-this is the crucial part. They know when to give you the peace you deserve. They could keep talking, bothering you, or asking you questions, but they "Stop." They let you have La Paz.
                                  

 Thank you to these beautiful countries for being respectful of your visitors, for being kind, for being patient, for listening, and providing help. This is what makes people visit your country again and this is what makes tourists spread positivity to others. 

AMEN

Legless Passion

There was a lovely man in the park with no legs, but a spiritual standard to live and follow. He had a strong belief in God and a persistence to keep living and moving. While he was not physically moving, he was moving with the shifts of life. Life takes you down paths you can least expect, gives you trials you wish you never had, it tests and questions your faith all the time, your spirit feels gone, but you continue on. We continue on and this man continued on.

He believes in God with his two rosaries around his neck and his kind spirit in his heart.
He sits in his wheelchair in front of the church as I talk with about his life, work, and purpose. He is selling cartoon character balloons for 50 cordobas each about $2.00.
They would cost about $5.00 in the states as they are considered a specialty balloon. While I look around the park and often talk around and know who is selling what. I know that no one else is selling these balloons. I tell him that this is a major accomplishment and a great item to sell. He smiles kindly and says,"Gracias."

 It was clear through his expression that he appreciated my words and he inspired me.  I would hope that many people have told him that, but I know that probably no one told him that.  We have to acknowledge people for what they are trying to do, how they are making a living, and their efforts towards a better life.

Those people who are so positive when they have such to deal with a disability on a daily basis-this is inspiring and deserves acknowledgment.  They get up and show up everyday to make a living.  When he told me he lost them in a mechanical accident, he did tear up a bit and he looked down, but he did not focus on this one accident in our conversation. His life was not defined by this one moment, but it was defined by his persistence to keep going. He was not going to roll over and die, but he was going to fight. He was going to live. He was going to create. 

When all you got to keep is strong Move along, move along like I know you do And even when your hope is gone

Move along, Move along Just to Make it Through

-Musician-  

Bon Bons Por Favor

While in Nicaragua, I have been doing good with preparing my Gallo Pinto and avoiding any sugar. If I crave sugar, I just have some lychees(my favorite fruit, which I get off the street for .50 cents) and mangoes.  When you are in these tropical environments, why would you eat something different than fruit anyways?


Well, I'm not a perfect angel and I enjoy my sugar from time to time.  Okay maybe it's from day to day, it depends on the week. 
Unfortunately, there is some raw truth when you are abroad with the chocolate situation.
1.) 60 percent of chocolate is stale
2.) You have limited selections including: Dove Bars, Cadbury, M&Ms, Twix, Snicker, Hershey's, and an occasional Kit Kat(This does mean you find these all in one place).
3.) The chocolate sits in the sun or it melts in the store and they sell it that way. 


When it comes to my nighttime location, I was next to a tiny bodega.  They had water, soda, detergent, chips, and some little junk candy. The last time I asked for crackers in the store everything was a year expired. I looked at him and smiled, "No gracias." This store was pretty hopeless in the chocolate department. 
They did not have any chocolate that I was craving- I would have even settled for a Dove bar that was a few months expired. I was willing to sacrifice my crazy date obsessions for some form of a chocolate bar.  It was 9pm and everything was closed except the one grocery store across town- a mugging not worth a chocolate bar.

Clearly, it was time to find some form of chocolate in this store.  My same guy, Diego Fernandez Ricardo Francis, was working.  The four names are definitely no joke here. They are about to close and he does not look very happy to see me. Perhaps because he knows I am a picky, annoying American. 

Quickly, I inquired about what kind of chocolate he has and he pulls out a melted Twix bar from 1992(okay it was 4 months old). I look at him and shake my head "No." Then he pulls out some chocolate animal crackers that were all cracked up and I shake my head "No."
He then points in front of him at the container with all those 10 cent candies that are ancient.  I decide to stick my hand in to see what I can find. I find some strawberry candies and local stuff that I have no interest in. He said, I think I have this candy the American's like(I have never heard him speak English). "You like the Bon Bon?"  My eyes light up and I am surprised they have Bon Bon's(random things you find in Central America #34)

"Oh I never had one, but the big people say they are real good."
He tells me to keep looking because he should have some.  This is like a treasure hunt for a Bon Bon and it's not coming up. 

"Ah ha." I found one in the second container. 

Clearly there was no date so I took a chance and ate it.  It was delicious and tasted fresh(I swear these people are sent to just make me happy). Luckily I find one more and I eat it again. 

Well, they aren't kidding about these Bon Bons- they are really good and super addicting.  This lovely teenage boy is searching to see if he has anymore. 

"Can you check in the back?"

"What back?"

Okay, well that was the answer to that and I was left sad and wanting more Bon Bons. This should be a moment realizing I don't need another and there are people I am feeding who need real food. Unfortunately, it was not that moment and I was being a selfish, kind brat.

"There must be just a few more around here-smile."

This boy looks at me and tells me,
"No mas" with a serious expression. 

It was my time to walk away before he said,
"Lady you don't need anymore Bon bons."

Off I went to my room putting myself in bed to dream about Bon Bons or chocolate they just don't have. 

Ce la vie!

Museo Ruben Dario

An amazing poet who died at the age of 50 with the name of Ruben Dario.  It's a small museum with Ruben's old room, his study, old memorabilia, and his writing and poetry.  I assume that he is a poet, but I didn't get to the end yet. The kind boy Luis sits in the corner and reads. He is glancing at me and can tell I am curious about the history. I'm not the person who just stares at everything with no interaction with staff.  He closes his book and says,

"Can I help you?"
  I say, "Yes, who is Ruben Dario."

He begins to laugh and explains his history in English. His pronunciation is cute as he forgets some words. He says Ruben was a poet, an educator, a politician- he was always traveling to different countries especially Argentina and Spain. Being Priscilla, I ask about his family life, his time in Leon, his life problems, his education, and how many books he wrote. He wrote twenty eight books and had two
brothers and sisters. Being a writer, I am fixated on how many books people write and by what age.  My grandfather wrote over 50 books by the age of 81. 

As for Ruben, he was like the many poets who suffered from mental illness or addiction. He drowned his sorrows in alcohol leaving him with cerrosis and dying at age 49.  It's a whole other post about writing and addiction, but he this talented man was too young to die. He did so much for the city of Leon and he broke down boundaries and established important connections abroad. 

  Fatality by Ruben Dario 

My name is Kaspar. I the incense bear.The glamour of the Star has made me wise.I say that love is vaster than the skies.And God exits. And Life is pure and fair.

-My name is Melchior. And my myrrh scents all.There is God. He is the light of morn.The fairest blossoms from the dust are born,And joy is shadowed by a threatful pall.-My name is Balthasar. I bring a wreathOf Orient gold, my gift. I come to say That God exists. I know all by the rayOf starry light upon the crown of Death.

-Balthasar, Melchior, Kaspar, be ye still.Love triumphs and has bid you to his feast.Radiance has filled the void, the night has ceased:Wearing Life's crown, Christ comes to work His
Will.
                         

Fundacion Ortiz-Guardian

Sunday,the day of silence in the city, I got a chance to visit the two museums directly across from my church.  This one was my favorite with some incredible art pieces. The girl working in the museum was adorable. Each time I would stand back and look at a painting, she would come a little closer. These people who work in museums have such a boring job-it's nice to talk with them and liven things up a bit.  She told me that she has an Aunt in Chicago and she also has 6 sisters and brother. She knew what she was talking about when it came to art- totally impressed. She gave me some background, but also gave me some peace and space- perfect.

* Four houses holding art from Latin America,  * European Art, and local Nicaraguan artists.
* Great work from Peru, Argentina, Colombia, Nicaragua, and Cuba

Quiet and calm with nice gardens and  antique homes from the late 1800s. They represent the Nicaraguan home which is present in my bed and breakfast, the shopping stores set within in homes. The garden or little pond is always in the middle followed by columns and large windows. It reminds me of a mix of Spain and Morocco, but it definitely has its own charm. 

 .

Blind And Hungry

It is almost 9 pm and I am walking the streets looking for people to feed. I know that I´m not suppose to be out that late and there I am walking the dark streets with few tourists in sight.  
In my vision, I see a man stumbling around appearing to be lost or confused with his location. 
 He finally sat himself in front of the post office. I wondered what was going on with him. He had this adorable chubby face, blue mittens, and torn up light blue coat. His eyes were wide open, but had no awareness to my presence.

At that point, I realized he was probably blind stumbling around with no stick-great. 
I asked him if he would like some food and he 
didn´t say anything. He does not comprehend what is going on and I am realizing that he does not understand. I told him to just wait for me and I would return shortly. I buy him a can of Orange soda(for some reason I thought he would like that) and a hot dog( probably not the best food to feed a blind person. 

I quickly bring it back and place it in his hand. He smells it and I can finally see the smile I was waiting for(not completely altruistic as I prefer to see a smile). He takes a bit and slops some on the ground. I decide that I'm not sure how the blind people eat a hot dog, but maybe he needs some help. I hold the hot dog and feed it to him bite by bite along with his can of soda.  His happiness is actually present through his eyes and his smile-it's beautiful.  No one around, but two spirits connecting.   For someone blind on the streets, that adds a whole new level of difficulty.  That wouldn't happen in US because there would be many government agencies and state assistance to take care of him. There's only one to watch over him now and that is GOD.

For God's work, you don't seek recognition.  You do it from the heart because you know it's what you were born to do...

 Just born this way.... PRIS

Filling the Stomach

The second part to the sharing of the food involves the physical component of filling the stomach.

From Guatemala to Nicaragua, there was constant food distribution to bus drivers, street workers, kids, homeless, etc. It was a responsibility that was sent down to me and I had to take it. This does not mean I was starving because I always had enough to eat, but I took more recognition to those who didn't.

In Leon, I surprised myself with how concerned I actually was with these street people eating. The people in the church were being fed three days a week.  There was space for more people in the church; therefore I tried to inform those who were on the streets.  A couple of them followed through and others did not show up, which is expected for this population. 

Clearly, just informing them of the food distribution was not enough. After 7pm, there were many homeless hanging out in the church square.  Instead of just giving to anyone, I tried to target those who are truly suffering and in need. 

After sometime, there seemed to really be no sensor because I just felt so bad.  I had to do something for these people.  I had to fill their stomachs(friend).
As much I would like to take credit for this expression, I cannot because it came from my Turkish friend. He was good looking, tall, and thin with some possible ribs showing. One day walking on the beach, I said, "Why don't you eat more?"

He said, " I just eat to fill my stomach."

This was what I was doing in Leon, I was trying to fill people's stomach buying them street food whether a tamale, chicken and rice, fried foods, pizza etc.  If someone had an empty stomach and I knew about it, it was my responsibility to fill it. These moments where I buy food for myself and I just give it away. Priscilla does not do that, but the holy spirit does.  It gives and gives and gives to those who need because we don't need all that we're given. I don't need to run around looking for the perfect meal rather I need to eat some gallo pinto and call it a night.

The housekeeper at my b&b made this delicious Gallo pinto(rice, beans, and hot peppers) and they were kind enough to share it with me.  This was all I wanted to eat every night was Gallo pinto and avocado if I could find it.  Instead of getting fish or something with some different sides, I gave myself Gallo Pinto and fed the street.  This was not a big sacrifice because I loved, loved Maria's gallo pinto. 

This may seem noble to those who believe that giving food is the solution.  Those who believe its "a nice thing to help out." This is something that more tourists could be doing independent of any organization.  It´s not a commitment for them, but it is one for me.   With the amount of tourists that come in, the streets could be fed if they each one gave food once a night.

Of course, there are those organizations who are working with the homeless population to decrease poverty. But when I am walking 
the streets all I saw were hungry eyes and empty stomachs, the street poverty will always exist in one way or another. It´s easy to purchase some food and sit with them.  Try to have a conversation and if you can´t-sing them a song, make them laugh, let them tell you a story, etc. 


Among the Guatemala and Nicaragua night visits, I had some regular customers that I had to attend to, especially those who touched my heart. 

There was one who walked around with ugh boots and had no awareness into who I was and why I gave him food.  He just enjoyed it and filled his stomach-important.  

There were two older ladies who always smelled like cigarette smoke and they had no teeth. They would always smile and with that I had to always give. 

There was a beautiful older man who always slept near the fountain, there was a lady who wore a bright yellow rain coat, and there was a blind man.....

Sharing of Food

With my passion for good food, there always was that selfish, greedy, obsessive compulsive element. I didn't want people touching my food, I didn't want to share my cookies, I didn't want people to ask for food-putting me in that uncomfortable situation to give it.  Of course, I would volunteer in soup kitchens, which is just expected for anyone.  When it came to really sharing, I just did not want to share food period.

In Morocco, things seemed to change with the food sharing. I lived in a country where their culture was based on sharing food.  People would not eat until everyone was present. The women spent so much time cooking the food. Sometimes the couscous took 12-14 hours. When prepared it was delicious and it was worth the wait. Even when you were hungry, it was worth it to wait for food and then sit around and share it.  Six or seven people would all sit around and place their spoons into one dish.  When it came to the fruit plate, people would sit around and dip their fork into one large dish.  There was no concern about double dipping, germs, or sickness.  People were sharing the food with one another and it was a beautiful, holy experience. 

Sharing food is not just friendly and kind, but it is holy.  People who are feeling hunger and do not have something should be given food. It's the right thing to do according to your religion.  The religion of Morocco is Islam and people believe in the five pillars. In the fourth pillar, they are asked to give to the needy. Not everyone engages in this, but I remember my friend who cooked food and brought it to the shelter twice a week.  The sharing of a homemade food is quite generous and true sharing.  This holy sharing of food should be experienced by those less fortunate not just amongst family and friends. 

After Morocco, there was something about this experience that changed me. Before Morocco, there were moments traveling buying food and giving it to those who need it. What was different was the convenience eating vs. conscious eating. This time, I found a different meaning for food rather than just eating to satisfy. Most people just eat without even realizing where the food came from and how holy that food truly can be. 

Instead of eating by convenience, I spent time cooking my food.  In Morocco, you have to go to the market, find the spices, cut the vegetables, make the cous cous-everything takes time. Sometimes it felt like, "Is all my time being spent cooking?"

Later, I became appreciative of having this period of waiting for food because I became more appreciative of it.  The longer we have to wait for food, the more likely we are to appreciate it. The holy experience is felt when you give food, not just satisfaction, but appreciation for the time, efforts, and the holy meal. 

Food gives our soul light and lets your true love find it´s way in...PRIS 

Spanish Foodie

Food Ranks

1. Belize

2. Guatemala

3.Nicaragua

4. Honduras

As previously mentioned, food is a big part of my life. At home, I love to cook creative healthy dishes that are full of fish, vegetables, bean, and different types of whole grain.  When it comes to food, I am one of the biggest Divas.  
I want it to be the freshest fish, the most recent date on the package, the right presentation, fresh ingredients from certain stores, and nothing overcooked or burnt by an inch. 


When I travel, there is no way to be so picky and all those unnecessary wants have to be broken down.  In Central America, occasional fresh white meat chicken
became accepted. I don't eat anything fried unless I can remove the fried part. If I don't like the food that is available, I just won't eat. I will find something to eat the next day. 

Also, I inform hosts of my dietary restrictions with meat. Of course, the vegetarian thing is difficulty to comprehend for Latin American countries, but they are friendly and kind about it.  
With this said, I have come across very few problems in Central America. The main staple items that people consume: rice, black beans, plantains, fish, eggs, and chicken.  They do lightly fry the plantains, but they are delicious and worth it. They make some interesting sides with vegetables as well. There are nice salads made of beets, cucumbers, and carrots. Sometimes it's not about  trying all different kinds of foods. I find that when you enjoy one type of dish-keep enjoying it.  The dishes are very similar when it comes to the rice/beans, chicken, and plantains, but some are better than others. 

Clearly, the home is the best place to consume these lovely dishes.  People are so accommodating towards me when it comes to food. They understand that I am American and picky at times. They will let me come to the back to make my own salad, they will show me the food before I get it i.e. let me open up the pots and investigate, they give me extra sauces and things I would enjoy, and they are just lovely-kind-patient. Of course, not all of them, but 90 percent=)

Hold My Hand

The hand is such a powerful tool when it comes to connecting spirits. The hand can be such a beautiful sign of respect, a thank you, a sign of appreciation, wishing another well, and the spirit crossing paths. 

Within the Francisco Church, I found myself constantly connecting by the hand. While they were waiting in line to get in the church, I would smile and extend my hand out.  There are some who are shy and reserved-these people are given more space.  It was a shake with a hand placed over our hands. I let them know I care with that human touch they crave.  

When they hold my hand, some don't want to let go. They look into my eyes expecting something more- looking at something beyond just me. There eyes are full of pure longing and desire. This was something new for me as I enjoy the high fives, the hugs, the pats on the back, but the shaking of the hand came alive in Nicaragua. It was happening in Guatemala, but a highly increased amount in Leon.   

As one human being, I can only do so much
 but I am one person who extended their hand. One person to acknowledge the being. To have that smile and handshake or hug three times a week-this can make someone feel some hope and inspiration to become better. 

It seems like just a moment, but these moments are what can move mountains. 

People need non-verbal words of encouragement and reassurance. When we have faith and believe in people, they will rise to the occasion and thrive. We have to give them that human contact they deserve in order for them to get better. We can't just feed them and not give them any of God's direct attention. 

        They need it, they want it, they love it.

Take my hand and I will smile towards you and extend God's grace your way....PRIS
 

Queen of "Vacation"

When it comes to "vacation." People who call me the "Queen of Vacations." Not one person would ever call me the "Queen of Purpose" because they feel that all I do is "go on vacations." All my education and work is not given any recognition rather I'm just someone who likes to vacation. This is an unfortunate way of thinking as people cannot connect travel with work unless your stationed with a big company in the US or abroad.  To serve the underprivileged in countries is something that is "nice to do." It's not a real job because it does involve six figures. There needs to be that "label" for someone to take you seriously otherwise you are just a girl who likes to vacation.

As I get older and I become increasingly molded into my purpose, the desire and possibility to take vacation has significantly decreased.  All my travel I want to be connected with my purpose to work with the community, schools, churches, organizations. To perform interviews and/or studies learning about the culture. 

People ask me to go to fancy beach vacations and I know that I internally know that I don't deserve it. Once I create that label and recognition for myself, it maybe a possibility. The taking a vacation just to "take one" is out of style for me. It's not a vacation that I want to focus on and that's never been my main intention. I am just discovering how to work with people in all new ways. The humans who suffer from poverty, addiction, abuse, loss, and tragedy. Those who are starving to learn English. Those who have such beautiful faith and just need inspiration and someone to believe. Those who are lost and need to find their way home. Healing broken families and empowering youth. 

This is PURPOSE. This is not a JOKE. This is a JOB. A job through GOD.

When it comes to my purpose, I am aware of it. Maybe I was not fully committed in my early 20s. Perhaps I did take more vacations back then, but I am fully aware and committed now. When you know you have responsibility and that someone who loves you more than anyone is counting on you-you must act.  You can't be wasting time on vacations rather you know you have work to do. You have a commitment and you have to stick to it.

Of course, it may not be with the UN or Doctors without Borders or the Peace Core. When you are able to work and connect with a whole community in a short period of time-this is powerful and your own label can be created in time. You work hard, be persistent, stay patient, and keep the faith. 

In Nicaragua, Belize, Guatemala- there are many things to do. Of course, I would like to enjoy a few things here and there. But when the need is presented, I have to take action.  The need has been presented from Day 1 of the trip. My purpose for being here was clear as crystal. I had no doubt with my decision to come and clarity was delivered on a silver platter. There were whispers in my ear from up above saying, "Priscilla, you have to help these people." "It's in your hands." The signs were all there and God lead the people in my direction each and everyday. 

In Leon, the need had exploded.  People told me to go see the beach and go visit this and that volcano. It was not possible to do all these things, but I did explore all the churches, explored 1 volcano, and enjoyed a couple museums next to the church. A real purpose has little time to take a vacation or enjoy. God has proved it´s never a true break for me.... 

As a human traveler, I choose to enjoy the culture, the place, and see what the city has to offer. It does not mean that I am out of my purpose or I am vacationing all the time. Also, the reality is there are days when these cities are shut down, quiet and no one is around. As a therapist, I know myself and how I function best. I function best with good food, good sleep, and mental breaks. 

Clinically, it's healthy to enjoy yourself and reward your own good behavior. When you are in a foreign country, you have the God given right to explore-especially when it comes to nature and man made wonders of the world. There is such beauty in the world and sitting in your office and never seeing it-it's a shame. For me, these times with nature are religious moments and conversations with God. It's like a Vitamin C boost where it helps me keep going. It reboots my system. I go through a laundry cycle and then I'm fresh and ready to go.

When it comes to taking those mental days of rest, it does not mean I just completely shut off like a light switch.  No matter what time or day,  I Never Stop Connecting.  It's the man driving the bus, the man cleaning boards with this two children, the pregnant woman on the roadside in my walk, the cleaner in the church, the housekeeper in my accommodation. 

There never really is a true "vacation" because Priscilla's front porch light is always turned on for people-always. 

Rarely will I not listen to someone and turn them down when they have a smile and an open heart. Those who are in need, just need some confirmation, just need a smile, just need a pat on the back, a person to sit with them on the floor, a person to listen to their music, or a person who wants to hear their food is delicious.  It's a never ending job, which makes me proud, spiritually satisfied, and touched.

It's not something I expect anyone to understand, but I hope people can know that I may have presented a certain life of vacationing in my early 20s, but those days are gone. It's about traveling with purpose and meaning to educate, believe, inspire, pray, empower, assist, and build their feeling of worth.  

Spanish Vulnerability

Sometimes my Spanish decides to take a vacation. I'm not sure where it's going whether it be Costa Rica or Panama or maybe it's just going to the beach.  It's embarrassing when I am scrambling for words and people are looking at me strangely.  Most people tell me, "You have such great Spanish," which I give credit to my expression and ease of flow. In my opinion, language is not my strength, but picking up on non-verbal expressions, gestures, and their pronunciation is what makes me communicate better. 

When these cloudy language days arrive, I start with the broken Spanish and then I look up things in my handy Iphone Spanish-English dictionary, which does not require a Wifi connection.  There are moments with this Iphone where I think, "Wow, this thing really is helpful."
Although, the local person is not concerned with the Iphone or the dictionary, there interest is in you.

You are not the American that is just trying to get by with some Spanglish.  

You are not the American who would never look in a Spanish dictionary because people speak English.  

You are not the person who disrespects the language. 

You are the person who pulls out your phone, says excuse me, and looks up a word or phrase.  
You say thank you for their patience and apologize again for your incompetence. 

 The amount of happy faces that I have seen pulling out this Spanish dictionary. People are so happy when you are trying to learn their language, but they are happiest with the beauty of vulnerability.
You are sitting there in front of them completely alone and vulnerable-in their culture-in their city- in front of their eyes. They love that you are just trying to learn, you are trying to improve, and you are just trying to communicate with their language.

There are days that we are going to be great and there are going to be imperfect days.  People respect you when you are trying and just showing some human vulnerability.  You're not a perfect, smart American, but you are someone trying to learn just like everyone else-no matter the color, the race, the language, and the country. 

Next time your Spanish, your new learning language takes a vacation. Pull out that dictionary or ask a local.  The sun will shine again and you will have a better language day. Those difficult days will come, but......

Instead of feeling embarrassed let yourself feel human. 

PRIS 

The God Given Purpose

When I was a child, there was always this deep curiosity inside of me. I knew that there was more than the suburban life I was given.  There were people in my neighborhood with problems who I gave my time, my listening, and support. Truly, I was a born therapist with a heart for others. It was in my genes from a father and grandfather who dedicated their life to others.  I believe it was also in God's plan to be his assistant in helping humans feel better and become better individuals.

With this growing mind, I knew there was something much bigger out there.  My curiosity grew for people. Why people were ill and why they suffered.  When people asked me what I wanted to be when I grow up I said "A Clinical psychologist." That's what I thought would cure human suffering- a doctor.  As many others believe, I thought that a psychologist could help a person and cure them of this pain. 

Now I realize there are two different healing processes: one involves medicine and the other involves God. It's possible for someone to combine both of these healing processes into one and this is what is most powerful.  

With the young Priscilla being passionate for psychology, she studied some theology, but endlessly studied psychology. The human behavior of people

 fascinated me like no other and everyone was aware of how passionate I was about this subject. From the age of 12, I was sure that I wanted to study human beings for life.  Instead of taking a couple courses, I took all psychology electives. Any opportunity at a job to take a new training on depression, abuse, mental illness-I took it. I needed to fill myself up with all this knowledge to do something with it.  To cure the human suffering with my knowledge and with the one spirit that changes lives. 

With this spirit and with my knowledge, it all came packaged together into something priceless.  This girl who wondered about suffering and the world did not sit back and sit on her curiosity.  She went out and explored different communities, different population from Los Angeles East LA, South side Chicago, Bronx New York, India, parts of Asia, Africa, and Middle East.  She bravely lead herself out into the world as one woman alone who had intentions to help, heal, spread love and spirit, and acknowledge others. When it's a purpose, it's not a job.  It's something that many don´t understand because they have not felt it- I apologize to those people and I hope they can feel it before our time has run out. 

The combination of knowledge, experience, and purpose is pure power.  When you have explored and connected with so many cultures and you can see, feel, and hear the impact-it's a pure blessing.

As a woman, I'm still curious about people, communities, history, politics, religion, art/history, violence, and human choice/behavior. My curiosity will never end because curiosity will always be present in a world so diverse and ever changing. The difference between then and now is that I'm not a little girl anymore. 

I can ACT on my curiosity and I feel empowered to create CHANGE with my higher power on my side and the world in need of my being and services.  The human suffering can be cured with medicine, but I plan to cure it with human interaction.   PRIS

Hope for Homeless

One of the biggest problems with the homeless population is that we don't acknowledge or believe in their being.  We don't believe that they have anything to offer the world and they are just wasting resources.  We don't listen to their thoughts, concerns, beliefs, values, or interests.  Instead we just watch them drown in sadness, sorrow, loneliness, and poverty.  We keep throwing money at the problem instead of just throwing a little bit of humanity. 

This population is completely lost in a sea of misery because they are hungry for connection. They are hungry for caring and acknowledgement. Instead of feeding them with food, they need to be fed a cup of love.  They need to feel love, belonging, and security.  Even with food distribution, what about the rest of it? This population is suffering from our continued ignorance and inability to connect with others. Just distributing food with no therapy, activity, discussion-this provides nothing to the soul.  The church is feeding these people, but they are craving love and attention. 

My first day at San Francisco Church, I made sure to make eye contact and smile with each and every person.  Of course, I might of missed a few, but the point should be understood.  These people need some recognition that they are humans.  They were confused with my presence and why I was even there. This shock happens when people give up on them. They have to stop and process why someone is there. Is she a social worker? Is she going to serve food? There were two unfriendly local women that were serving food and did not have any expression on their face. "Take your food and go so we can leave."  
It was not my job to engage in a rookie job when God had clear plans for me. The food that was distributed was rice, beans, and a chicken stew with tortillas. This food was given from a local organization.  They were fed Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Only on Wednesdays they could sit at the table and eat together. The other days they would take the food to go.  I asked Jose if it would be possible to eat inside for all three days to help build connections and engage in activities.  His answer was, "No, we don't do that." A great idea that makes sense can be completely rejected. The reality of this population is that you also work with organizations and other entities like the church who want to do things their own way. 

Fortunately, from Day 1, people were very receptive. Overall, it was the same group of people that were coming each week.  A group of
older men in their 60s who were open and honest about the difficulties of living day to day and not having the support they need. The goal was to build connections between the group members to utilize each others strengths, knowledge, and experience.  

There were different groups that were created- those with families, those elderly, middle age men, and youth.  It seemed that each group or each individual had a different story, but a similar theme-no support.  They would speak of addiction, difficulty finding a job, and not being able to get a job because the kids. There was one woman with such motivation to get a job and I connected her with a man who said he declined a bakery job because the hours.  I paid for them to take the bus and taxi over there and just like that she got the job. Two days later, she tells me that it was too far to commute.  She is then complaining and complaining instead of appreciation.  

Clearly, digging people out of the devaluing they experienced and the loss of their own being is difficult. The motivation, the support is down, and people become comfortable. The thought and positive intention is there, but the following through and staying consistent is the most difficult part. Therefore, this was definitely a challenge with my temporary encouragement and support, but sometimes believing in people makes them believe in themselves.  There was such inspiration and motivation in the air that I even inspired myself.  

-The architect from many years ago thought about putting his designs into action in the church. 
-The single mother thought about selling her specialty cakes in a street cart. 
-The addict who was sober for 49 days was inspired to keep going on. 
-The special needs child smiled more at meal time. 
-The man who always stays in the house thought about taking a 15 minute walk each day with serious motivational talk.  
-The woman who missed her husband shared her loss with another similar woman.
-Johnny demonstrated faith in seeing his children after they had been taken away 3 years ago. Johnny was a special man who played his guitar outside and he always ate right next to the tree.  He would call me "Indian Princess." 

          If you read anything, please read this

Many of these people are strongly holding on to their faith and it's their faith that keeps them alive.  They mention how thankful they are for their religion and the blessings Christ brings forth.  God was making connections and beings were being acknowledged. One person with 60 to 100 people can be just enough to smile, to believe, and to help out.  These positive ideas were moved into their conscious and it's an option to use them. With the work of the Lord, I hope they do.

In hope of educating others, I hope that people would understand why I chose to spend my time at that church. These people needed me in ways that are difficult to digest, but just think. Just think if you did not have those dinners out with friends, the supportive husband, the loyal pet for 5 years, the annoying mother, or the home to keep you safe.  

When we disregard this population, we are saying that these people do not deserve what we do because their choices. Some are veterans, some are victims of domestic abuse, some suffer from addiction, some lost a job, and some suffer from loss.  There are different reasons for their poverty, but we suffer from those same things. The only difference is that we have the tools to deal with the crisis, the break up, the job loss, the mom with cancer, the drug habit, the gambling problem, and the overall stress from society. We have the tools to deal with it and we don't share them with others? We just walk around as superior because materialism puts us on a pedestal?

This is not a religious life rather this is a life of a sad soul.  Those who are conscious of their behavior are worse than those who just have no awareness into their life or being.  It's sad that people can't help others in a real way rather they just help themselves, their family and their friends.

There are a world of people to help. Open up your eyes and create an opportunity for improving someones life.  PRIS

Truth About Nuns

When it comes to nuns, people often have their

preconceived notions and stereotypes.  Nuns are perfect humans created by God to serve him and others.  Nuns don't enjoy any music, go to the beach, or drink soda.  They have the same three meals a day and spend the whole day praying. 

First of all, many people are confused about their own religion and they have not found God.  Therefore, they judge those who have negatively rather than asking questions.  Asking questions about their experience, their daily routine, their interests, what they like to do, and their favorite food. There is such a fixation on their lifestyle and how they can sacrifice everything for this God. 

Why would someone do something like that?

Secondly, people believe that Nun's do not have interests like everyone else.  Nuns love to have fun just as much as any normal being. They enjoy the outdoors, they may love a certain sport of activity, they enjoy nice music, and they enjoy good food on occasion. Of course, they have a regular schedule to accomodate, but amongst their schedule they are allowed to enjoy.  God gives them permission to do that and be happy. 

Lastly, these sisters are better than most human beings. They are honest, loving, fun, caring, help their community, and have a passion for sharing his spirit. Some are reserved and some have more personality.  Some are more shy and quiet than others, but they are good people. They are good people who don't get enough appreciation or praise.
   
What makes them great is that instead of consistently engaging in wants and materialism, they engage in simple happiness. They get rid of the materialism and let their being shine. This is what makes them better people than the millionaire CEO with a Ferrari, every Apple device, and an empty soul. 

One should know that these women are wonderful women who make sacrifices to leave their family, to stay in one place permanently, to dedicate time to the church and community.


This experience was not my first time working with a nun and it will definitely not be my last.  
The Sisters I have met have been the opposite of what I would expect. The difference is that I share their faith and I have ultimate respect for them. 

Having the program from 2:30 to 5, it was wonderful having them participate. They would teach from 1:30 to 2:30 and they would also help them with homework.  After their part, I thought they would be done, but they engaged in the group exercises with kids.  Sister Mary was  unbelievably helpful when I was running activities.  She smiled, laughed, danced, made jokes, and she was full of life. Of course, she was 100 percent professional, but she was also human. It was so refreshing sitting with these nuns and hearing their values, interests, and passions. They were rather young in their 30s and shared they both chose Christ at a young age.  

When it comes to interests, Sister Mary shared that she went to the beach last week and she wore long shorts and a long sleeve loose top.  Sister Mary shared that she likes to eat pizza.  She usually eats what's given at the convent, but she loves the $1 pizza slices from the street(me too).   

As mentioned, they were annoyed with people's judgments against them even coming from their own family.  They don't understand why people think so negatively about their lifestyle.  I explained the same reasoning I wrote on this post and I empathized with how they felt. I found myself agreeing with them and shaking my head constantly. They both feel such judgment from others that they just don't get their life(me too). We all smile and hug each other realizing that we have to stick together and toss out the haters. They are not going to understand because they don't know the feeling of commitment. They may be all caught up with a pet, kids, sports, traveling, a relationship-but they aren't connected with the one thing that enhances life brightly. It changes your vision, your lens,  your desires, you needs/wants, and what's truly important. 

A vision can light up your soul and the rest of life fades into the distance.  

PRIS