The Best Medicine

Laughing on the plane, laughing in line, laughing in customs, creating entertainment again on the bus. What could ones life be like living in Colombia?



Clearly, there is a lot more components to life than laughter, but laughter is one of the best medicines in life. The Dalai Lama says that one of his core values is the ability to lighten things up with laughter. When one starts with a base of happiness, they have a whole lot more to build on.

While Colombia has its political, systematic problems, huge drug cartel history, and some pretty dangerous areas-this does not define the overall character. These  are people who have been impacted by a negative environment, a rough upbringing, a lack of support, and role models. These are people who stuck in a cycle of violence with their family and friends being involved in crime and drugs.



Again, this does not define the character.  The values are different from the stereotypes they are given.  These people have a strong family base, honest, caring, funny, and smart. They have many great things going for them that should be paid attention to rather than headlines of crime and danger. The same goes for all countries in Central America. There is much more good than their is bad. These people have warm hearts and sincere smiles. They have good intentions and their core being is good. The laughter is not a mask to their real person rather it is genuine, free spirited, and fun. The humor makes situations easier.


For example, in the airplane the bag was stuck in the overhead and five of them were all laughing.  If that was New York, someone would have pushed their way through or been feeling completely annoyed. This laughter makes the air lighter and easier to breathe in.  It releases pressure to be a certain way or be so serious and straight faced with no real communication.  It's just a horrible way to live. A life rushing forward each day with no ability to stop in a moment. No ability to laugh in a genuine manner and take the time to smile. These people are not just happy, but they are smart, efficient, and educated.  It's possible to take a dose of the best medicine and live a healthy, productive life.  You can have both and the Colombians prove that it's possible. Those who have nothing still show they have happy spirits and kind souls. 


In this lifetime, I want to live like a Colombian free spirited, happy, and loving life. I want to be healthy and take care of my body. I want to work hard and build a nice family one day. I want my base to be happiness and not working 50 hours a week with a Mercedes and no awareness into the true self and soul.  I want to be free. I want to be a happy Priscilla.

And he smiled.....

Mission Accomplished with Mr. Grumpy. 
As I spent a few days in this Hotel in Masaya, I spent some time getting to know the owner-Mr. Grumpy.  He was so serious and professional with not one smile on his face. He would interact with his family in a serious manner. When I sat down and spent some time getting to know him(difficult conversation as he spoke some funky Spanish), I tried to smile as much as I could. "A smile is contagious." I shared with him some of travel questions that I don't understand like "Why do people hurdle together with no direction?" "Why do they speak Spanish so quickly in Honduras?" He loved the story of me jumping off the bus at 1am to switch.

After this first conversation, that smile just kept reappearing.  He felt comfortable to make his own jokes and he called me the "Spanish Indian." He would pat me on the back so hard I felt like it could be effective as a choking maneuver.  When I would sit in the rocking chair in the front, I would see him check on me from the inside.   A couple times I came back after my curfew and he said he was going to have me sleep with the dog in back. He always had these tough love ways of expressing himself and I was happy to see him happy. (Ce La Vie). 

One day, I was walking towards the hotel and he says, "Hey, hey." I look to my left and he just arrived back in his mini red geo.  It was the smallest most compact car and he sat their waiving and smiling-moments that I just adore people. 

 It was difficult parting ways because I kind of saw him as a father type. It was nice being part of a family again. This is why I just love the accommodation run by a family-it's a great way to  get to know the culture. 

He was one of those people who wanted to smile, but he was trying to portray a serious and grumpy image.  That didn't last long with Priscilla coming to the rescue.   

Bunny Love

In my lovely hostel, they had an adorable bunny named Edward. Before my trip, I wanted to get a bunny, but decided to wait til I get back. He is not the friendliest bunny, but he will sit on my lap and he let me pet him.

While I’m not a pet lover, I am a bunny lover and I happen to like my bunnies over sized with beautiful colors. This one was a nice gray and white and he was just what I wanted. He did make himself known by sitting near the door in the mornings and you could find him playing by the garden. The tourists did not seem quite amused with him, but I had a fondness for his cute tail and over sized weight.

When it came to my departure, I told my young friend, the one I was helping with English, “Hey, you know what how bout I just take him and put him in my backpack. Don’t worry no one will notice.

She has her hand placed over her mouth and is shaking her head.

“It’s okay the owner is never around and she won’t even notice. You know actually in my opinion this bunny could be deprived of attention.”

“But the tourists and housekeepers are always giving him attention.”-her

“Well, he’s really not getting the true attention that he needs from one consistent, loving individual. So I can just take him and bring him to Panama. I think he will enjoy the change in scenery.”
 “The owner will notice he’s gone Priscilla. She really loves that bunny.”

I am just smiling and laughing . Oh how fun it is to entertain myself and others. Her reaction was priceless as she actually thought I was serious. I had my backpack sitting right near me-funny.

I love that funny bunny and I hope for my own bunny soon!

                                

Shiny Happy People

LOVE THESE SIMPLY HAPPY SOULS. MAY GOD BLESS THEM ALL WITH SAFETY, SECURITY, LOVE, AND PEACE. 

And They Got Cake

The last days are always hectic, but they usually turn out to be amazing with God's blessing. I awoke early to ensure I had all my materials together in my backpack.  I stopped by the office to meet with Mrs. Francis to print a few things.  She asked me what I had planned for the day and stood so proud in front of me.





If I ever doubt people's belief in me, I can always think back to certain people. Mrs. Francis being one of many people.
From our conversations to watching my conversations with others or witnessing my time with the kids-her whole face radiated in appreciation and respect towards me.. She believed in me. The smile that a proud parent would have, the smile of confirmation, the smile I was doing something right, the smile of satisfaction in my efforts and performance. But most importantly, the smile saying, "Thanks for being you." 
 

Overtime, I had saved my sympathy cries up until this exact moment. It was the last day, which meant more food than just a snack.  As I told her about my plans, I made it clear that I wanted the day to be special and I had to reward the good behavior that was present.  I was using my cuteness and charm to drive home the importance of "special." Of course her response involved not having time or enough notice, which was an understandable fact. Unfortunately, I did not ask her earlier because I just decided to not ask anymore after previous attempts. 


I don't believe in begging for something, but I do believe in using my personality and character to get what I want. Just demonstrating such a care for these kids and showing heart helped me get it.


"It would be so nice if we could just have one of those amazing cakes that the kitchen makes cut up into small pieces." Pris


"Or whatever fruit you have left in the kitchen, we could make a fruit salad." Pris


"Okay, okay Priscilla. How about I see what I can get and I stop by when you finish up?" Mrs. Francis


"Okay, sounds great." Priscilla





I hopped on the bike and went on my way.  I couldn't wait to see all the kids from the week as I had told them their behavior is based off rewards and they receive big rewards on Friday, which was TRUE. We had balloons, goodie bags, gift certificates, and games they requested. It was our day to review what we learned, have fun, and celebrate. 

Unfortunately, when I arrived that morning there was a clear shortage of children present. One by one kids started coming in and their faces looked more and more unfamiliar. This is always my saddest moment when I do not get to have closure with my kids, youth, adults- so sad for me and for them. The girls told me that the kids all went to Belize city for the weekend and they stay until Monday. 
 

Okay so that accounts for a lot of people, but where are my older boys? There is no way they would miss the last day of camp. 
 

"We'll there was kind of a fight last night." Darrah
 

"What kind of fight?" Pris 
 

"Well there was a gang bang." Darrah
 

"So they are not coming."Pris
 

"Some will come and some are grounded."

Only a couple of my older boys came and many of the younger ones were present, but   

Parents just say, "Hey drop your kids off at the camp for the day when they have not been there all week." 

Super annoying and rewards were going to kids who do not even deserve them, but that's just the nature of this work. 



The kids were loving the activities especially the scavenger hunt. The best part was them finding the last item at the same time. One younger boy was riding fast on his bike and the older girl was running towards me with her braids swinging in the air.  They were both coming from opposite sides of the neighborhood and here I stood at a bridge in the middle.  The bridge joined them together despite their differences.  The girl ended up winning and she said she never won anything. They were thrilled and I was thrilled for them-lots of high fives and encouraging each other to congratulate their team member on a positive contribution. 



It was great that even the new kids were participating. It just goes to show how positive energy, teamwork, support, and caring can encourage participation. Well, it's so much more, but that's experience that you build overtime. 



Another Arts and Crafts activities involved Arts and Crafts making cross necklaces.  The boys finished their map of Mahogany Heights and they were so proud.  They had so many disagreements, but they were encouraged to stick together and they did....they did. 

Throughout our activities kids were giving me big hugs, smiles, and thanking me for coming to work with them.  It was so interesting how respectful these kids were to me as it was a part of their community to respect adults.  They were always helpers and not always following the rules, not always listening perfectly, but they never will. They are kids and they make mistakes-it is up to us to respect them, give them space, and count their steps of positive change whether almost invisible or wonderful. PRIS

It was time for our snacks. It turns out we had chips and one of our volunteers bought cookies. 


This volunteer came in Day 1 with no smile on her face and looked like she was just trying to do a good deed.  As camp went by, she warmed up to me, she opened up, she danced, she laughed, and then she made cookies.  She spent over 2 hours using a unconventional stove and she made them.  That's what happens when you become a part of a "good feeling." It spreads like wildfire and you want to help, participate, contribute, and be present. 



Since I had made purchases for the program. I was specifically told to not purchase anything and I followed the request. I was clearly doing enough as I was crazy busy the whole time.  Sometimes I wonder if I took a test and I would account for 2 people productivity.  The "new" kids on the last day(ironic statement) were running around outside so I had to reign them inside. It was such a zoo as it usually is the last day. 


While serving the cookies, I looked up to see Mrs. Francis looking classy and beautiful.  She asked for some assistance to the car and I sent out our older helpers. A few moments later in they came with two trays.  I ran over to open one up and I opened it to see two big, chocolate cakes with vanilla icing....cut up into small pieces.
Oh the detail and how the how happy the kids were-I did not cry rather my heart was just filled with appreciation. 


On the last minute, she did this for me and for the kids-it was so special.  The kids all had a piece and a second piece. They stood around the cake staring at it and pushing to get another piece.


I told her, "Thank you." and "Thank you" and "Thank you." She knew how much it meant to me and for someone to care about that-that's beautiful. 



It was time for ending and we sang a song and handed out certificates. I had individuals motivational talks with the older kids and we had hugs galore. The volunteers were so kind in their words and their hard work in the camp. One is a teacher and the other has a daughter in the camp. It couldn't of happened without them.



The hardest part was the last walk through the neighborhood. It was a walk I took with Mrs. R as I was taking her to dinner. It almost didn't happen as we sat in her house I helped her start an email. We were waiting for her husband to come back so he could watch the kids. It was getting late, but he came in the nick of time.



We walked along the dirt road and our crazy taxi driver friend pulls up beside us.

"You girls aren't going to walk all the way over there, hop in."



And off we went to "Cheers" where everybody knows your name and their always glad you came

 

People can do so much when you just believe in them. I will continue to believe in people until my last day comes. PRIS

My Funny Valentine

My Funny Valentine is a kind old man who is 55 years old. He always wears the traditional pants and tribal color shirt with opened toe black sandals. He had the kindest smile that would make my heart melt. He was sincere and just a wonderful person. In our conversations, I could tell he was just a simply happy kind who was content with his life. He worked during the day and enjoyed watching TV in the night or fishing. 

When it came to my stay, he was always checking on me when I entered to make sure I was doing okay. He would kindly make me coffee in the morning and I would kindly accept even though I don't drink coffee. I just did it for him and it seemed to add an extra kick start to my day.

One day I asked him a specific question about my bedroom cleaning. I know that he was the main one who cleans all the rooms. The bedspread in the room is hot pink complemented by pink sheets.  Every day I got my pretty pink sheets, but one day things change.  I came home and turned over my bed cover to find blue sheets. He switched to blue sheets and being ridiculous and curious- I had to ask him about this change. He speaks all Spanish-and not one word of English that makes him even cuter. I told him in a very nice and cute way, " I don't like blue sheets, I like pink I'm a girl. "

He responded with the cutest look and he said, "Oh I see, I see"  The next day I was curious to see if I had pink sheets. I peeked underneath the comforter and I had a whole new sheet set. I had light green, silk pillow cases and white sheets with pink flowers with small, green stems. 

I've pretty much seen all the rooms and I have never seen this sheet set. I didn't ask where my funny valentine got it, but it was clear he put some effort in just for me. 

One time I also told him I was out of soap in the bathroom to wash my hands. It was just one night, but I couldn't go without out. My little friend knocks on my door and he has 3 head and shoulders shampoo packets. He shrugs his shoulders and says, "good, it's good" 

He also cut some roses from the garden for me to put in my room. He cut firewood and would put in my room with my request. He would ask the time I came home so he could put light the fire to ensure my room was warm at arrival. 

As people, we just had a mutual respect and caring for each other. Often when I would buy snacks, I would buy something extra for him. He would often look surprised that I was giving him something. We shared a whole loaf of fresh, homemade banana bread( one of the best banana breads I have ever had). Everyone at the hotel called him my "little amigo." When I needed something they always knew who to call. 

My Little Amigo could say absolutely nothing, but his smile shines through just like the sun and so did mine. 

When I left, he said he was going to be very sad and I told him I'm going to miss him very much. He probably rarely have guests who give him such attention, but God granted him with my kind spirit and I was blessed with his friendship. 

                                            

The Hardest Part

  

     

  

The Hardest part is not the work, but the hardest part is saying good bye. It's a short time you build connections, you make people feel good, you listen to them, you challenge them, you empower them, and then you leave. It's why organizations encourage you to volunteer for longer periods of time. Sometimes you can be "hurting" rather than "helping" a community when you come for such short time with no goals and just a strong desire to "help people." This is not enough to make an organization grow rather it's just temporary work to satisfy your own self rather than benefit the actual organization. 

As a clinical therapist for years, social worker, life coach- I am aware of the positives and negatives with working short term in an organization. With hard work and dedication to making a difference, there can also be amazing seeds planted for the community or even for new volunteers.

As a human being, I made the choice to make the most impact possible per organization.  With a short time of 2 weeks per organization in each country, I made a community and or clinical assessment on what needed to be done and I did it.  Instead of just "volunteering", I made a commitment to leave something permanent at each organization whether full behavioral reports, rewards systems, power point trainings, and full efforts with staff and clients working to my potential  . It was me leaving something useful for them rather than just playing with some kids and walking out the door like many volunteers.

With these short term connections, it becomes difficult to leave. When you are working with preschoolers and young children, it becomes even more difficult to leave. With the preschoolers, they don't always understand why I am leaving and they look at me funny. You get the questions, "Where are you going?" "Why are you leaving?" One student even said, "Can I come with you?" I joke that I will just take everyone with me and we will all take a big bus together and travel through Guatemala.  I will feed them fruit and lots of ice cream.  We will all be content with each others company not in need of another intellectual to give us their directives.  It's just a dream I mentioned and the teachers absolutely love this idea. There is no harm in a perfect dream.  

In reality, I have to leave to go to the next project, which was organized ahead of time. It's not an option to stay longer when I made a commitment to another NGO.  Organizations like Mayan Families with clients and a community who touch my heart-saying goodbye is the hardest part.  While the teacher did make an announcement, many children don't actually comprehend what is happening and leaving my favorite clients is difficult.  

In my case, the teacher made an announcement and many kids ran up to say Goodbye. My favorite client and my little learner, Angel, looked surprised to hear me leaving and he didn't look content. It made me sad to see his little brown eyes look like a puppy dog. Me encanta el!  This little munchkin was walking to the door waving his little hand. It continued to waive out the door as he was walking with his father. We just kept waiving at each other until distance was lost- difficult, but life keeps moving and more clients keep coming.

The teachers were so sweet and thankful saying I was the best of everyone in Mayan Families. It is so sweet that they recognize my work and my commitment to people-that's a wonderful connection.  It was truly a blessed experience and I would definitely consider visiting again and potentially working with the indigenous community. 

With beautiful communities comes people who carry your heart into a distance, which brings you closer to a better tomorrow .  -PRIS-