Jesus Driven Day

The Don Bosco church had such a full service and a glorious one. There I stood in this beautiful church for the first time. It was Our birthday and I was so proud of all we accomplished. Having such powerful spiritual moments I weeped tears of joy and thankfulness. No one had been there for me more and loved me more-how could I not give my life and serve him?

The pastor spoke in a clear Spanish I could understand as if he was speaking that way just for me. The church was overcrowded with people standing in the back near the door and on the sides. It was clear that other people were touched by this church and it's meaning. People were friendly with "La paz contigo" and sincere looks(Believers more friendly and kind in Panama).


At the end of service, I like to be around and meet people of the church. I enjoy talking and learning about their community and the problems they face and the strengths they hold.

There was a man who worked for the church standing in front handing out flyer's. We got to talking and it turns out he had been helping out with the church. He informed me that the neighborhood behind the church was one of the worst in Panama City. This refers to that previous post where I discussed how those who are suffering, lost, poor, angry, confused-they are place nearby the church. God keeps them safe. This is how he wants it. 

He wanted to introduce me to the pastor who was in the back and he showed me around a bit. The church held an after school program three days per week and I met a few of the kids (age 12-17).

This was not just distribution of food rather I felt the community that was present. They had a futbol field, basketball court, different rooms for activities including an art room with bean bags.  

I was impressed with this and I wanted to participate with the short time I had, which was only a few days with this tight schedule. I was suppose to have more time here, but each country was an extra couple days and that created less time in Panama.   

It turns out the Pastor had to leave-it was pouring I should mention and he had to go across town. It would have been nice to meet him, but I was speaking with someone who had the most hands on work.


Sharing our ideas and sadness among those who die so you, it was refreshing to hear a common voice. The gangs were some of the worst and trying to address this problem is always challenging. In Belize, in East LA, in Chicago-this problem exists larger than ever. For me, the solution is group therapy, building community supports, afterschool activities, increased amounts of community programs, and serious education on gang violence. It’s not a simple problem to fix, but education and community action can save lives. 

The pouring rain was coming down hard and people were starting to leave. I looked at the time and it was almost 3pm. I said my goodbyes and ran out the door. My South American friends were leaving at 3pm and I would feel incomplete without a proper hug and final goodbye.

When I ran back out of breath and soaked, I was asking Popola, “Where is Carlito and Mary?”

“Girl, you went through some serious rain. They are still here.”

Phewww, we said our sad goodbyes and then it was time for me to leave.

I am putting my things together and Popoyla says, “Join me for lunch.”

I look at my watch and he tells me that we can take the bus together. He makes an awesome vegetarian lunch (he’s vegetarian) and very picky with his food- like me. He made a Carrot, tofu, and curry dish with rice. He kept apologizing and I was eating every bite up.  We were discussing the whole hostel situation and how it’s not really for us, but sometimes it just makes sense. If I didn’t go there, I wouldn’t have met him and then what? There is reason not just coincidence.

Off I went and I decided to just take a taxi and he took the bus. It was my arrival at one of my favorite hotels The Hard Rock Hotel. 

Meant to Meet These People

The plan for Panama was to see the Panama Canal, celebrate my birthday, and work at a local church.  The beautiful part about plans is that they always change with the touch of God's hand. 

When I stayed at the Hostel, I made friends with the staff. I made friends with the guests. I made friends with the cleaning crew. I planned on having my own private room, but those were full(meant to be). I  shared a room with an Italian, an Argentinian, a Mexican girl and her boyfriend from Uruguay. Little did I know, our bond would keep me there more than one night. 

It was my plan to be in luxury for my birthday as it was my birthday and that was what I wanted. I ended up having a mix of both and that was just perfect. 

Last year, I was in Madrid and I met a great group of people where we cruised through the streets and had an amazing time.  This year I had no one to spend it with, but God brought me some wonderful new friends.  

Not only did I meet my group of new friends. I met someone very religious and special.  This was a meeting that was purely meant to be.  His name was Popola. 

Popola was interested in helping me grow professionally. We discussed my purpose and he wanted to help me develop my self.  He was a business guy who lived primarily in Brazil and he did the import/export thing. He didn't want anything in return, but he wanted to be a mentor/helper in my life. Boy did he read me right away with what I needed. He was often referring to scripture and how God has run his life.  He is in town for a few months and he attends a local church every Sunday. Popolo is always a person who keeps himself busy and he wants the best for good people. We are so similar in that we don't just talk with anyone, but we speak with those who are good with good souls.  This was someone who would stay in my life not for a day, not for a month, but for a lifetime.

Oscar was the punk rock Colombian receptionist who worked behind the front desk. He shared his sweet corn arepas and tuna salad with me as we would talk nonsense. He always had this curious look in his eyes like, "Who is this girl?" It was like he knew my life was full of different components. We would talk about the beauty of Colombia and I would share my passion to move to Argentina. Advice from a free spirit, "Just go." I would make excuses as to what people say and he would say, "Just go I know you will love it."

Oscar wanted me to go to the Blarney Islands and we had a plan to stay up until the 5am departure time.  I was like, "Yeah, Yeah let me get my bag ready." He was like, "Yeah me too." 
I passed out at 3am and he was up working and slept at 6am.  We didn't end up making it.  

Jesse was a good looking Panama, 28 year old, who also worked managing the front desk, tours, and trips. He was definitely cute and well built. The Panama men have great, strong, fit bodies. It seems like it's almost genetic. He was always flirting and I was always smiling.  I kind of wondered about him a bit. Jesse was going fishing to the islands, but he didn't have any space. He said if someone canceled he would wake me up at 4:30.  He saw me sleeping soundly and he felt too bad waking me up(meant to be). Instead of going to islands, I went to the most important place-church 

Is this Heaven?

It turned out the priest wanted to switch seats so I agreed to sit by the window and take in the beauty. My favorite part of the bus is the window and staring out into sky, clouds, mountains, stars, trees, and people engaging in their daily work. Sitting on the bus with my head laying on top of the perfectly cleaned window, I stop for moments and just stare. I say in my head, "Wow this is so beautiful" like ten times over.


The real Costa Rica outside of San Jose is absolutely stunning. It's just God's beauty that is so present in overwhelming ways. The villages, the varying shades of green, the people smiling as the bus passes, the birds, and the way the sun shines on the people. I don't feel my description does any justice to how special it actually is, but I can say it's similar to the feeling of Kerala, India. Kerala is called "God's own Country." The nature is just exploding with God saying, "Don't worry I'm here watching over you."


If Heaven is something like Costa Rica or Kerala, India, I would be 100 percent satisfied. The rich nature and beautiful people would be the perfect fit for me. Heaven is a place where you spend quality time with God and his natural creations. It could be this environment with all those people you are suppose to meet in heaven....


Heaven Is Real. What do you imagine it to be?

Reason vs. Coincidence

Sometimes people say it’s ironic how you wind up in a certain place at a certain time. It’s a coincidence.  It’s funny. It’s a small world.  It’s not really any of these- it’s planned.

For example, when the taxi driver is driving around and he can’t find the original accommodation I chose-this is for a reason. It’s pouring rain and then we just pull up to a couple hostels and I step into the one closet to my side of the car. 


At first, I am skeptical and I am questioning the space and I wanted something different. I speak with the owner and I get to know her son. I play games with her son and buy him some cookies and snacks. I have special conversation with the security guard who is working his life away.  The cleaning lady also becomes my buddy. And out of everyone there including Israeli’s, Germans, and a couple from Netherland- I got along with a kind Italian man. He came to Nicaragua, bought a nice motorcycle and he is taking a road trip.  He builds websites so he can work on the road, which that’s what the day and age is coming to.
Does this sound like a coincidence? Meeting all these people, connecting, motivating, listening, helping, and learning from their life. There always seems to be someone, but when it’s a handful of people-you’re just meant to be there. Face the music and appreciate your time rather than doubt people, places, and things.


When a person says something that makes you question, analyze, think, wonder-you switch directions, make a new life choice, inspired to change/learn grow, connecting this to another experience/plan/idea, and having an eye opening experience. Listen with not only your ears, but your heart. Maybe it feels like déjà vu and you try to understand why this happens. The why is something to ponder about and the moment is to be appreciated.
 
Things happen for a reason and accepting this fact will lead your life in a positive direction.   

Church Stops

When it comes to rushing around a city trying to see everything, my awareness has increased into this kind of behavior.  It's not possible to see everything, but you can see most things if you have the time.

Although, when it comes to churches they are something I do try and see. It's important for me to see most or all of the churches because it's meaningful and important to me.  Walking inside the church is a feeling a home, of peace, security, and love. I guess I could describe it as walking inside your big, loving family's home and receiving those big smiles and hugs. It's just wonderful to go inside the church and have that peace to myself without the outside world. It's a time to pray, especially for the locals that I am meeting.  They need someone to care for them and pray for them because they are people too. Of course, one can pray outside of church, but I'm one of the people who truly connects to the church.  I rely on it for spiritual support and growth.
 
This spiritual exploration applies in the US and it definitely applies when abroad. For me, it's fascinating to see churches outside my element. Those of Spanish culture are particularly beautiful with interesting historical backgrounds and left in different states.  Granada is one of the oldest mainland settlements in America(USA today).
Therefore, I may be guilty of rushing to see churches because of how high their value and meaning is in my life. They are just a home to me and to everyone else who truly believes. 

Here are a few church descriptions from USA today:

Cathedral of Granada

Located right on the central plaza, the Cathedral of Granada is a bright yellow neoclassical church originally built in 1583, and destroyed in the 19th century, only to be rebuilt again in the early 20th century. The interior of the church features three naves and four chapels and extensive stained glass windows. The central Plaza is always alive with activity, from live music to outdoor festivals, and the Cathedral of Granada provides a iconic backdrop to the city's cultural life.
 

La Merced

Built in 1534, La Merced is one of the oldest cathedrals in Central America and was one of the most important churches in Granada until its main tower was destroyed in 1854. The rest of the old church remains however, with several additions, including the rebuilding of the tower in 1862. La Merced has a baroque facade and three interior naves and is located two blocks west of the central plaza, where it sits on its own small corner plaza surrounded by other spectacular colonial buildings.

Iglesia de Guadalupe

The faded and crumbling exterior of this impressive 17th century cathedral only add to its charm as it towers over the surrounding historic residential neighborhood in eastern Granada. The Iglesia of Guadalupe was used as a fortress by William Walker in 1856, when the American filibuster was being driven out of the country after invading and placing himself as president a year earlier. The interior of the church features a stained glass dedication to the Virgin of Guadalupe and rows of Corinthian columns.


Source: USA TODAY

Spiritual Exploration

When you make a stop at a tourist destination, it may take anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour and a half. There may be a famous statue or landmark, waterfalls, a volcano, a flower garden etc.  When you are just starting to enjoy it, the tour guide will usually say, "Okay guys you got five minutes." Once you take the individual photos and tourist shots, you only have about five minutes to actually take in the beauty of the site and surroundings. You may be in a beautiful Rose garden and there are butterflies in that area you overlooked or did not get time to see.  You are at a waterfall and you just take a shot of the waterfall and some silly photo in front.  You missed the beautiful path that lead to the waterfall. You had no time to truly explore behind it, around, and what's next to it. 

With those tourist stops, I find myself wondering behind and wanting so much more. "Priscilla, come on the bus is leaving." I hear that often if I do take a tour.  It's just not enough to stop at a volcano for 20 minutes at a volcano when I want that time to sit near it and take in my surroundings. It always feels like just when you are starting to enjoy it, you have to leave. This is problematic towards getting to the real part of traveling.  You are missing out on the real beauty of that site or landmark listening to the tour guides words, taking pictures, and then leaving. 

Where is the connection to the site, where is the time spent reading the excerpts, where is the time spent with the nature, and where is the imagination? While this is not true all the time, it is true a majority of the time. There is something that is missing and that missing component is spiritual exploration- truly allowing your body and five senses to take in a site. 

People are getting the talk from the guide, the photos with the site, the time to see what was recommended, but where is the spiritual exploration time? It's there to leave an impact on a human being. That experience can improve their being as it resonates with them.  It's not happening enough with short tourist stops at significant sites. 

Close Proximity to God

Isn’t it interesting how those who are suffering or underprivileged park themselves right in front of the church?

They could be sitting near the grocery store, on a street corner, or near a food stand. Instead most of them stay right in front of the church.

Do they expect a donation from people coming out? Or are they just feeling themselves closer to god?

Those spirits that are selfless, loving, caring-they might be the ones gravitating to a home-to a place they belong.  They may feel a sense of comfort being around the church.  It may protect them and keep them safe.  The presence of it in front of them may make them feel hope. The people coming out make them imagine what their life could be like. A life with church, family, and a job.  A life the can still achieve if they keep the faith and work to their potential whether it’s being a street vendor or shining shoes. They should do something to stay productive instead of being idol. Being productive is the key to success and this is the largest problem with this population being idol.  God keeps them safe, but they need to do their part... 

 

Jewish and Atheist

I had an interesting discussion with a young 20 year old girl attending John Hopkins in the USA. She was half Jewish an half Nicaraguan.  She was visiting her family in Nicaragua and exploring the country.  Our conversation gravitated towards religion and faith(not by coincidence I believe). She shared her childhood growing up Christian and Jewish, but she never felt connected to either. She respected the temple and she respected the church-celebrated both Christmas and Hannukah.

It was clear in her voice that had some hesitation to accept one and to accept God. She had little belief in God playing a role in her life whether big or small.  She identified her own free will and personal choices as her own life. It was refreshing that she was not closed minded to one’s experience with God rather she wanted to hear it.  She wanted to hear about my experiences and I didn’t plan on sharing, but she asked. I’m not the type of Christian that forces people to believe rather I still remain a neutral therapist because that is how I am comfortable. I shared how God presents himself beautifully in moments of joy, sadness, difficulty, or need. When you are down to a drop of faith, her works with what you give him.

When something feels like complete disappointment, it is just a learning opportunity to grow.  There are wake up calls to learn and realize what is important.  There is a plan and purpose that connects with him and this takes time to understand or figure out by trial and error. She said she just can’t have faith in something she doesn’t believe exists. We went back and forth on her beliefs, but she did present a lot of interest and a lot of hopeful moments. When she could see the sincerity in my eyes and the fire in my words, it was evident that she was considering a possibility.  

Of course, she didn’t believe everything I said, but she was genuinely touched.  For me, what was significant for her was that she still had hope.  The hope was there that one day she might change her mind. She might have an experience, moment, or a conversation that just changes her whole world.

As a true believer, I sincerely hope that things can change for in a positive direction. It’s great to respect different religions and learn about them, but it’s another to believe in one..everyday…every hour…everytime..

Power, Human Life and Church

When I sit in this church, I must wonder how much impact does the actual church have on these people? The church is a strong, powerful entity, which represents our faith in Jesus and his father. There are feelings of belonging associated with the church and it's community. A well-liked pastor can move mountains for people, inspire them, and make them believe in a better tomorrow. 

Is that enough participation for those underprivileged who need so much more?

There is that individual relationship with the pastor, but what about the support from others.  Some churches have this down perfectly where they are connecting people together.  This church in Leon, Nicaragua is completely missing that supportive community that these people need. The sad part is that many churches are not focusing on connecting and supporting this population. It's the reality of their ever existing lives.  They are fed a few times a week, but what about their other needs for support and belonging. These people just need someone to get them organized in a group each week, a person to smile and encourage them, and someone to teach independent living skills. Even in the US, churches usually address the need for food, but skip out on the need for belonging. 

Abroad, food is presented as the main thing to give, but what about time? 

What about a conversation with these people about their day, their interests, and how they are impacted my God?

The underprivileged population of Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Guatemala- they are hungry for the attention rather than just the food that is given. Their eyes light up from this human attention, which all human beings crave.  They have a tendency to crave it more because their low support systems. Those coming into the church with a full family, a regular schedule, a secure place to live, and the ability to feed and cloth themselves-they may just connect with the Pastor's message, go discuss it with family, and go on their way. This is not the case for those suffering from poverty, addiction, abuse, no job, and lost purpose. These people need the church to give them a little bit something more.  Something to make them grow and thrive in their community. Someone to share their opinions, to connect with the message presented in church, to treat them to a coffee, and just.....

Someone to acknowledge them.  Please open up your eyes and give this population more that food. Give them something refreshing, an interesting story, a funny joke, a new job idea, a new friend...

Stimulate their brains and empower them to believe that they can achieve. God has been on their side, but they always need a new supporter on their side.  Add them to your team.  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.....

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
 

Social Worker By Bike

This bike ride was truly just what the doctor ordered. My spirit and soul was craving a bike ride. I had been in the back of a pick of truck going to church, a shuttle van, and bus.  However, I had been missing the motor bike or motorcycle. It's one of the best ways to explore with the wind threw your hair, the nature in front of your eyes, the sky changing colors, the waves of the beach on one side, and trees on another. It's not about seeing how fast you can ride rather it's about slowing down to take in the beauty.  

As far as Stan, he was so kind and attentive he asked me where I wanted to go. I told him, "You know wherever you think is good." He said, "No where do You want to go?" You know this is a nice guy because sometimes gas is an issue. He owned some property and had a pretty good job. So we went off to go around the island and explore the unseen destinations.

The island has varying neighborhoods: some full of charm, some underprivledged, some Spanish, some Creole, some naturally stunning, and some just heartbreaking. As the bike went through these communities, I enjoyed the beach waves crashing, the pine trees, unexpected steep hills, and mountain areas. It was quite a diverse display of nature and also a clear display of poverty. The bike was suppose to be a joy ride, but unfortunately I take my work with me on the bike. We were laughing and having great conversation, but I couldn't help, but look in the eyes of those I passed by-sadness, in need of guidance, in need of a motivational speech or session.  Clearly, he was not up for making stops on the bike to talk to locals-pictures yes-social work-no.
Hearing much about the Frenchman's cove, I was interested to visit.

He asked me, "Are you sure you want to see there?"  
 "Yes, can we please drive in?"

I knew it was a poor community and I wanted to see it.  It was a Creole community with the crosses on the churches all in different shapes, the kids running through the streets, the houses built on a hill stacked up on top of each other, seeing the women cook through the windows in their big pots with clouds of smoke, the municipal building next to the basketball courts right on the water  Unfortunately, most people looked at me like, " What are YOU doing here?" They were not very welcoming and I kind of got the hint that maybe we should leave.  Instead of feeling sad, I just felt like this was a missed opportunity.  This was clearly a community that needed me and I was not there for them.. it just felt like a let down on my part as I didn't explore the whole island to see the truly bad areas.''

 Somewhere Over the Rainbow these people will fly... Fly far away into a safe place with no financial worries.

Being a nice teddy bear, he wanted to cheer me up so he took me for ice cream... well that is guaranteed to cheer me up.  Mr. Stan took me to an Iguana farm.  This is a farm of 100 plus iguanas just sitting around and staring at you.  They don't bite you or attack you...they just stare at you.  We were going to stop at a nice Hotel Casino/Resort, but the security guard would not let us through because it was after hours.  Unfortunately, my charm does not always work and I did not get us through the gates. Iguanas, parrots, and toucans were just as satisfying.  Nature beats out fancy hotels any day. 

As we continued along, there were some familiar places that came up for Stan. We passed by the area he used to live in, which has now been taken over my hotels and high rise condos.  Before, it was just a simple village where he lived with mother, father, and 4 brothers.  We also stopped at his house that was for sale.  The house had four large bedrooms, two living room areas, a nice kitchen, dining room-not to mention a full upstairs with two bedrooms and a balcony and two bath.  I mention this because he was renting it out for just $700 a month. He was having difficulty selling and just needed someone to rent it for the time being.  The economy is bad in Roatan and it's difficult to get someone to that location. 

For me, I thought that a selling point would be  it's location right across the church. Well, that would work for me, but perhaps not so much for others. I said, "How wonderful to live that close to a church."  You just open your window and hear the music on a Sunday morning-inspired to get up and go with such lovely people attending. Unfortunately,  He didn't seem that excited about it and nicely responded, "Some days you don't want to hear the music Priscilla." It's definitely understandable for a neighbor to want some silence from time to time.  

After this long ride and my talking and talking about how much I wanted a delicious local meal.  Looking for a small place with huge flavors.  Let's eat.....

Sun, Moon, and Stars

There was something oh so special about the sun, moon, and stars in Belize. Every night felt like a full moon for a whole week. The stars were so bright am the moon as well. It was like the sky was staring at me rather than vice versa. I would look up and the sky was looking down at me. Spiritual moments of beauty with the sun as well. 

My room was on the second level overlooking the veranda. I used to open up my door at 530am for the sunrise. With my door open, I would just lay there in bed watching it come up. 

The sunrise is one of the most peaceful times of day. There was nothing, but pure nature. The sounds of nature are all coming from thy higher power plus the sun rising. It's truly a spiritual experience and a great time to meditate or at least take in the moment

My Everything

                 

People are my everything.  There is no question about it rather it is complete fact.  People touch my heart in ways that God could only touch.  It is usually the simply happy, which really leave a mark.  Those who are bus drivers, janitors, restaurant workers, farmers, or villagers. They just have meaningful spirits that light up my heart. Truly they are the good people of the world, which we pay the least amount attention to-it's unfortunate. 

Usually I would like to take a few people from each country home with me.  Just take them into my care and put them all in a nice big house together, feed them, and let them enjoy the luxuries of life, teach them social skills, dance and sing with them. In reality, they don’t need to go anywhere because they are perfectly content right where they are-they are happy.  It is these beautiful people and their shining heart, which makes my world so much brighter and my heart so much more content. 

Thank you Lord for this deep connection. 

This Could Last a Lifetime

It's amazing the power or people, the power of community, and the desire to make a difference. Being with this organization and observing their commitment is inspiring. My first organization was great, but I felt a disconnect between "us" and "them" They were working hard everyday for the community, but they weren't treating them as equals. 

When sponsors came to meet the children, it felt a bit disconnected and a bit superficial.
Monkey Bay is a true team of people who appreciate their staff and treat them equally. Everyone works together and there is no line between the general manager, the founder, the project manager rather they all just equals who work passionately together on the same mission. 

Most Belizians are not employed for the Winter season, but Monkey bay keeps their staff all year long.  They are kind and caring towards them and treat them with respect. 

If I received food, shelter, and a small stipend, I could definitely live this way. Living simply and happily. Mrs.Francis just lives in a small cabin with one living space, a bathroom, and a kitchen. It's definitely possible, but not in Belize. It's unfortunately not one of the places I could live in.  Although, I can't deny my dual personalities: a desire for simplicity  and absolute craving and genetic predisposition to luxury.

Even with this said, these Non profit expats are living the simple life outside of the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. They are out of their typical spending trends and they are Finding a true happiness within altruism, community, and teamwork.

 With the three components, things slowly progress day by day and goal by goal. The progression is celebrated together by staff acknowledging the working puzzle pieces that made it happen. There is equality and people feel appreciated. The feeling of this could last last a lifetime and it confirms why people continue to work in social work and non-profit. 

Priscilla C. Raj

Turn that Life Upside Down

Sometimes our life is imperfect for a reason we can't understand in the moment. How could God let something so horrible happen to us and why would he let it happen? Did I do something wrong to deserve such pain? 

People receive pain in different doses and some are much larger than others. Your cupboard is overflowing with medicines to try and heal the pain. But you are looking in the wrong place to be healed as your medicine is right above you. 

You have to turn to God, you have to praise him, and you have to continue to keep the faith. He wants you to go through this pain and find truth and turn this truth into another person´s life. 

To clarify, he gives you a challenge and you learn from the experiences with it and you gain acceptance. With this acceptance and understanding of what you are given, you can educate and inspire another persons life. It's like he gives you a set of keys to a new car, but it feels like a banged up old car. You are being given a special key  to enhance that persons life. That person is the old car who needs your help, guidance, inspiration, and mentor ship. They will never forget their past fully, but you can help them build a new future. Your story can empower them to move forward and find new ground. They don't feel like they are the only one suffering anymore. 

With this said, There was a wonderful man in he congregation who shared his story and changed the lives of others. In his childhood, he encountered some truly horrific things with his parents. It was a negative upbringing that could not be wished upon any child.  He engaged in the street life and stopped going to school.

With God's plan, a shining light came around and pulled him out of this dark world. She adopted him and took him out of the dark and into the light. With this he turned his life around and dedicated his life to ministry. 

With his story, youth feel hope and inspiration. He is a ray of sunshine and he's right where he is suppose to be in God's arms. He has such charisma and energy with the kids and heart to heart conversations with youth. He is also going on missions to the US with his talents. He shares his story and he dedicates his life to God- beautiful

-PRIS- 

Mormons, Versace, and Tikal

When a local tells you about Tikal, you see a big smile on their face and their eyes open up wide.  They are proud of their countries history and incredible archaeological attraction.  At first, I was hesitant and not sure if it was worth going. Was this just a tourist attraction that people check off the list? Getting there does take time and money, maybe I should skip it?

Straight off the bus into Flores, I made the decision to go and boy am I glad I did! The drive from Flores to Tikal is a bout an hour and is full of horses, sheep, corn fields, coffee farms, and acres amongst acres of lush green fields. The driver and I made friends and we were making jokes while the locals were sitting in the back sleeping. You think I would be sleeping after my bus adventure arriving at 7 am, but I was ready to explore.

Usually tours start between 4am and 6am for the sunrise tour, but I was there at 10 leaving limited English tours. My driver talked with some people and found me an English tour with a great tour guide named Versace( that's my name for him because he was a Guatemalan version of Versace with his slim physique, nice, hair, and nice features.

On this tour, there was a family of 4 from Utah, a Chinese mother and daughter from California, an older couple from Cuba, and then there was me.   At first, I did not have much interest in the touristy group, especially the kid who was falling asleep in the beginning of the tour. The tour guide noticed this behavior as well and said, "Now's your time to go take a nap in the car before the 4 hour tour begins." Our tour guide was so cute, so funny, and so full of knowledge. He has been a tour guide for over 40 years and he is still running on a full tank of gas full of passion and wisdom. 

With this tour, there is such a sense of mystery and wonder that touches you in a special way.  It's like the Mayan spirit is still living there and they are teaching you about their past world. The ritual ceremonies, how they built, how they cooked, lived, worked, and most importantly what they believed.  When you are sitting in a forest with hilltops next to you consisting of underground pyramids. a mysterious chirping sound, and just pure moments of silence-you wonder about what used to exist.  It was so long ago yet when you see the tubs where they bathed, the  stones used for ritualistic activities- it's as if you can imagine a life from long ago. It's incredible and the work never stops with archeologists studying and discovering more and more each day. 

With all these gigantic pyramids came steps and with steps came climbing and with climbing came views. It was so fun climbing towards the top and viewing the lush, green forest from above while searching for the other pyramids below.  

The tourists ended up providing a great dynamic I spent time getting to know the mother and the kids. She has a total of 4 kids-two boys and two girls.  The reason for their trip to Guatemala involves an invitation from her son, Jake, who is a missionary for the Lordes Saints Church of Jesus Christ. He is just 20 years old and has been living in Guatemala for over a year sharing the word of God with others and learning Spanish.  He was such a lovely, lovely person and it was so refreshing hearing him preach the word of the Lord. He demonstrated such interest in getting to know me and praised me for working in my purpose of the Lord-such meaning behind these interactions-such meaning.  The one who was falling asleep in the beginning of the tour happened to be his brother.  

His brother became my "Pequeno Amigo"-Little friend. 

Side note-- I use this term with those kids who I become friends with and develop a close connection.  I treat most children as little adults, which is why they connect so much with me. I give them respect and act as a friend who wants to l earn about them, have fun, make jokes, but they are aware of the boundaries.  This Pequeno Amigo's name was Taylor(all names changed for confidentiality purposes). He reminded me very much of a client I had from Beverly Hills.  We used to read together, hike together, swim together, and of course learn together. We worked together mainly on his social skills and ability to transition between tasks. 

Anyways, Taylor and I were walking through the forest together looking for snakes and any kind of animals we could find.  We  did end up seeing  a few different snakes(not anything huge),  howling monkeys, all kinds of birds, bats (eww), and a possom (eww).  We were really hoping to see a bear and when the guide asked us to choose between 2 routes. We chose the complicated one going through the trees and jungle thinking we could increase our chances to see a bear. Our guide was on the hunt for a Toucan bird(the Fruit loop bird) because I  really wanted to see one in it's natural habitat, but it didn't end up happening.  

Since Taylor was a kid, of course he loved to run and hike all over. At every temple we would run up the stairs and I would follow behind him.  My excuse was I was dehydrated and old and everyone just thought this was hilarious as I acted like I was out of breath(really no-soy fuerte).  On the last one, I said, "Okay, I'm not running this time." And then I ran up ahead of him. We raced up about 8 flights of stairs and I was trailing right behind him, but on the last flight I threw in the towel. I couldn't have him lose in front of his family so I just let him win;) We walked around top of the temple sticking our noses into the closed off sections wondering what was inside. 

When it came to the temple with the bats inside, I trailed behind him and when I heard one I ran out with my hands over my head. Bats are not something I enjoy being in a close quarter with at all!
Clearly it as some great entertainment for everyone and I just decided to wait outside.

It was so great exploring with this family as they just had such a young spirit.  The parents had such curiosity and interest to learn about the history of everything.  They also had a daughter who was doing missionary work in Fiji and another daughter doing similar work.  I told the mother that she must be so proud to have kids doing such wonderful things and she did not seem to think much of it.  It was nice seeing such a wonderful, Mormon family.  People have such stereotypes about Mormon's, but this was the nicest, coolest family.  When Jacob shared their rituals and customs with me, I realized that I was mostly living a Mormon life with my current behavior and active beliefs. It does not mean I am going to conform to being a Mormon, but is always interesting to learn about different peoples' beliefs. The strength of religion and family unites them. I have the religious component and can't wait to have that family unity they have one day. 

It was so nice spending time with them because I felt like I was a part of their family taking a trip with them. It's truly nice having a close-knit family and I admire it and it is a wonderful thing.