Asi Es La Vida...

After a months absence

I have recieved a few emails about my lack of communication, so I have carved out some time to write a little bit. The lack of time that I have had over the past month has been a blessing, meaning that I am keeping busy and loving my current daily routine.

First, a couple of requests for anyone interested:

1) The lack of books here is astounding (and this time I mean books in Spanish that Ecuadorians have access to). If anyone would like to donate books in Spanish or money so that I could buy books, I would love to get a collection of books for the kids and youth. There is a cool book program that I could do, except for the lack of things to actually read.

2) If anyone comes across interesting international small grant offers, please let me know about them. I am entering the stage of my work where I need funds. I have lots of ideas (and know cool Ecuadorians who have even better ideas) but we don't have resources.
- If anyone is interested in making personal donations, I could give you options so that you could choose how your money is used and give you updates on exactly how the money is being spent (a project regarding micro-finance and lending, paint so that seventh grade kids can paint a mural, materials so people can start basic beekeeping and increase their income, funding for an amazingly motivated woman do health and nutrition trainings, notebooks and pencils for my adult students who are learning to read and write, among other things).

Sorry, that was mainly motivated by a variety of people lately who have offered me support in money or donations and I have not had time to think about it until recently.



Back to the Update
My life has settled into a "normal" with short interruptions of excitment. I am by far the most comfortable, content, and excited since I have arrived in Ecuador. I have a few close relationships in my community and a few good friends in Peace Corps volunteers. I have work that I enjoy and other work that is intimidating (but challenges are good). I mainly pass my days working in my community and walking to a couple of others that are close by to do some work and visit. However, I also leave once in a while to do things like - Hike a 15,000ft mountain (last Saturday) or attend a three day conference in the jungle (starting tomorrow).

This mix of mundane and predictable, along with flexible and different is perfect for me.

I was able to attend a church for the first time in the past seven months just this morning (I just left a few minutes ago). It was very nice to be able to sing a few songs and hear a messagewhich made me think. I do miss the community of believers that are often such an encouragement and support, but I still think of this experience as an "opportunity" for me.

I have the chance to interact with people from such very different perspectives (and many of these people are other volunteers from the states), who challenge me and my faith on my levels. I have the chance to see and be reminded of Creation through incredible mountains, lush jungles, the immense ocean, innumerable stars, delicate and vibrant flowers, and the daily masterpiece of painting that we call a sunset. I have almost unlimited time to pray and ponder and question and think.

My first conclusions are such:
1/ I know and am certain of almost nothing, so I need to remain open and listen.
2/ The creator is BIG... and we should think about how that affects us more.
3/ Love. Be amazed. Question.

Enough for now. I might actually be able to write more later today and more importantly put some pictures.

posted by Steve @ 9:20 AM