Day Eight: Good to Be Back...

 For the remainder of our time while we are here in Nicaragua, our team wil be in the community of Los Martinez.  Los Martinez is within view of La Chureca, but is certainly more developed and has a higher standard of living.  By higher standards of living, I of course mean the occasional house made out of cement blocks as opposed to metal sliding and a spattering of homes with working toilets.  We will be providing the same services to this community making sure to spend time with the young children of the community.  Today, we got to meet the community leadrs, check out where the clinic will be set up, and play with ¨los ninos.¨

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

                                     -Mahatma Gandhi

                                            



John with Enrique



Those returning were excited to see Enriquita, Raphael, Nelson, and some of the other children from Los Martinez.  Once we arrived, Enrique, now with a much deeper voice, was there to greet us and not only remembered those returning by name, but also showed some sadness when he realized there were eleven who did not return from last year (especially towards the absence of Austin and TJ).  While on the house visits, Nelson came up to one member of our team who primarily spent time in dentistry.  He approached her as ¨the dentista¨and asked for a ticket for a limpieza, which he received.  Not only did the children remember some of the English taught to them last year, but it was clear that there were great strides in education in this area through the English speaking ability of many of the children, compared to the one or two we came across last year.  Our experience today in Los Martinez was a true testament to the impact we are making in the communities we are going to.

 

Danny With Los Ninos of Los Martinez



 This evening we listented to Pastor Pavel about the history, particularly the political history, of Nicaragua.  While we have spent a lot of time talking about what we witnessed and how sad it is to see, it was very interesting to learn about what caused these problems and the larger macro issues facing Nicaragua.  The government of Nicaragua has been plagued by instability and corruption, and the people of Nicaragua have paid the price at the benefit of a select few.  



We had No Idea



We also discussed what we could do individually to help the people we have met and the larger issues of poverty worldwide.  From small acts such as bringing reusable bags to the grocery store to larger changes in lifestyle such as taking steps to reduce one´s carbon footprint or raising awareness and support for issues of poverty, etc., we all have a responsibility to help those in need especially becaue of the priviledged life we were born into.  So as we complete our time in Nicaragua, it is important to remember that all people deserve dignity and respect.                                                                



Soccer with Los Ninos.  Kristen started her own Soccer Clinic.  If any of these children end up in the World Cup, we know who to thank.