Speak out without speaking
So, along with my Goodnow Hall Diversity team and second floor, I decided to do the 25 Challenge. For those of you that don't know what that is...From Sunday, April 24 at 7PM to Monday, April 25 at 8PM. I was completely silent for 25 hours. This 25 hours is to represent the 25 years that "...the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and the Government of Uganda (GoU) have been waging a war that has left nearly two million innocent civilians caught in the middle. The war in northern Uganda has been called the most neglected humanitarian emergency in the world today".
**Check out www.invisiblechildren.com for more details
My Silent Revelations
So, if I were to narrate my day, this blog post would take about twenty minutes to read...at least. Due this, I will appeal to those of you that like lists!
1. Powerful versus powerless: As soon as people learned that I was unable to talk, some took the opportunity to be mean. Many would just put words in my mouth. This is directly correlated to what those child soldiers must endure day in and day out.
2. Biggest Struggle: Surprisingly, the meaner people were, the easier it was to be silent. I refused to give in to ignorance. My biggest struggle was not being able to say thank you when people did the smallest things that normally mean so much to me (i.e. Opening the door).
3. My confession: I had to talk two times! Last night I was on duty, and I had to write my first Information report about a resident! The second time was just a complete slip up on my part. I was in the Developing Scholars Program office and one of the workers did something for me and I automatically said, "Thank ya honey!" Oops! Due to this, I had to wave harder and smile more to let people know that I didn't hate them!
4. Jesus Moment: A verse that had been on my heart all day was James 1:19, "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry". This experience truly showed me what it was like to listen wholeheartedly.
5.Highlights: Playing Catch Phrase at a social. I had to turn it into Charades. Another was realizing that a resident needed to vent. It was really nice not having the temptation to only think about what I was going to say next.
I have a "BREAK THE SILENCE" bash that I planned at 8PM, so I will end on this note. I encourage you all to have your own Silent Challenge. You'd be amazed at how much talking can be an inhibition in your relationships.
Moving Forward:
Looking ahead, I have realized that God has given me a voice for a reason. It will be my mission to speak for those who go unheard, but listen so that their needs are met and not my own.
Much <3,
Ariel
Monday, April 25, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Why don't people Care?
Hello!
So today, I came to the realization that people don't care about what is going on in the world. It hit me so hard and actually brought me to tears. So, I wrote a poem about it. Oddly enough, this poem is like an Ariel-rant and not the same as my other ones.
Written by: Ariel Anib
March 29, 2011
Apathetic
Trouble in Paradise
I love my house. My family. My friends. I am blessed.
I live in the land of opportunity. The USA.
But you don’t know what you have until it’s gone.
One day you have everything, the next day, Nothing.
I trusted one man. And now look.
I am living on the streets.
No family. No friends. Everything I once knew, gone.
I live in the land of the free. The USA.
But I am in bondage.
That isn’t worst of my problems.
My situation has rendered me invisible.
Hundreds of people walk past me daily.
How do you look, but not really see?
My hurts. My bruises. My pain. My scars.
Can’t you see that I have lost my power.
Actions speak louder than words.
Well, to me they say the same thing. Nothing.
You say nothing. You do nothing.
While you sit in your comfortable place. Elevated on your own accord.
I continue to fight. I continue to scream.
Hoping that one day, you will hear me.
Some Institution
Knowledge is power.
13 years of school. But you pay to do more.
College. Class. Homework. Tests.
But there is more to this life.
So you commit. To everything.
Your identity lies in how much you do.
You do everything. Almost.
Organizations . Intramurals. Volunteer.
You climb the ladder. Member to President.
Now you’re somebody. You sit on committees.
124 hours of classes and you still are not satisfied.
After four. Five. Six years. You still can’t see me.
Consumed by your desire to do one thing.
Help yourself. Climbing the ladder.
Has allowed you to use my suffering as a rung.
I am still screaming. I am still fighting.
But your success has a megaphone.
Pharisees
When all doors closed. I saw one open.
They call you holy rollers. Bible thumpers.
But I know the truth. I know your doctrine.
I see your hearts. I see your passion.
But life in a one way street is dangerous.
You know what I need. You have the answers.
You fight for hope. Justice. Peace.
Bible studies. Sermons. Fellowship.
When does talking become more?
Division will conquer.
You walk looking at your feet.
With thoughts that they are not doing right.
Can’t you see that they are a part of your body.
Walk the talk. Practice what you preach.
Faith and deeds are interlocked.
The parable of the Good Samaritan is not just a story.
It is my testimony.
Listen. Turn an ear. To hear. My screams.
Fight with me. Fight for me.
Radical Jesus
I believe in God. Yahweh. Adonai.
The God I believe in Loves. Justice.
Mercy is his middle name.
I believe in Jesus. But my Jesus looks different. Than yours.
My Jesus was Radical.
The Jesus that I know was born in a manger.
A King. Lived as a carpenter.
He did not get Stuck in Christian circles.
He ate with tax collectors.
He healed lepers.
Society wrote them off. But my Jesus.
He wrote them a love letter.
Jezebel. Magdalene. Woman at the Well.
Time and time again. They were cursed.
Threatened. Abused. Despised.
My Jesus loved them. His love for them.
Was Real. When they screamed.
He heard them. He stopped in his tracks.
He told them to finally stop fighting.
So that he could do it for them.
Wake up
Listen to me. My voice hurts from screaming.
My strength has drained. I can’t fight anymore.
I need you. To hear me.
You have been daydreaming too long.
See my reality. Understand my life.
Stop blaming me.
Justice is bipartisan. And so is pain.
Call it what you want. Civic responsibility.
Religion. I don’t care.
Do whatever it takes for you to realize.
You are the plan. There is no plan B.
Wake up. Let my voice be your alarm clock.
There is suffering in this world.
People go hungry. Children get AIDS.
Women are forced to have sex.
My situation is not the exception.
I am among the masses.
Take off your Machiavelli face.
And do something.
Apathy is laziness. With consequence.
**Peace
So today, I came to the realization that people don't care about what is going on in the world. It hit me so hard and actually brought me to tears. So, I wrote a poem about it. Oddly enough, this poem is like an Ariel-rant and not the same as my other ones.
Written by: Ariel Anib
March 29, 2011
Apathetic
Trouble in Paradise
I love my house. My family. My friends. I am blessed.
I live in the land of opportunity. The USA.
But you don’t know what you have until it’s gone.
One day you have everything, the next day, Nothing.
I trusted one man. And now look.
I am living on the streets.
No family. No friends. Everything I once knew, gone.
I live in the land of the free. The USA.
But I am in bondage.
That isn’t worst of my problems.
My situation has rendered me invisible.
Hundreds of people walk past me daily.
How do you look, but not really see?
My hurts. My bruises. My pain. My scars.
Can’t you see that I have lost my power.
Actions speak louder than words.
Well, to me they say the same thing. Nothing.
You say nothing. You do nothing.
While you sit in your comfortable place. Elevated on your own accord.
I continue to fight. I continue to scream.
Hoping that one day, you will hear me.
Some Institution
Knowledge is power.
13 years of school. But you pay to do more.
College. Class. Homework. Tests.
But there is more to this life.
So you commit. To everything.
Your identity lies in how much you do.
You do everything. Almost.
Organizations . Intramurals. Volunteer.
You climb the ladder. Member to President.
Now you’re somebody. You sit on committees.
124 hours of classes and you still are not satisfied.
After four. Five. Six years. You still can’t see me.
Consumed by your desire to do one thing.
Help yourself. Climbing the ladder.
Has allowed you to use my suffering as a rung.
I am still screaming. I am still fighting.
But your success has a megaphone.
Pharisees
When all doors closed. I saw one open.
They call you holy rollers. Bible thumpers.
But I know the truth. I know your doctrine.
I see your hearts. I see your passion.
But life in a one way street is dangerous.
You know what I need. You have the answers.
You fight for hope. Justice. Peace.
Bible studies. Sermons. Fellowship.
When does talking become more?
Division will conquer.
You walk looking at your feet.
With thoughts that they are not doing right.
Can’t you see that they are a part of your body.
Walk the talk. Practice what you preach.
Faith and deeds are interlocked.
The parable of the Good Samaritan is not just a story.
It is my testimony.
Listen. Turn an ear. To hear. My screams.
Fight with me. Fight for me.
Radical Jesus
I believe in God. Yahweh. Adonai.
The God I believe in Loves. Justice.
Mercy is his middle name.
I believe in Jesus. But my Jesus looks different. Than yours.
My Jesus was Radical.
The Jesus that I know was born in a manger.
A King. Lived as a carpenter.
He did not get Stuck in Christian circles.
He ate with tax collectors.
He healed lepers.
Society wrote them off. But my Jesus.
He wrote them a love letter.
Jezebel. Magdalene. Woman at the Well.
Time and time again. They were cursed.
Threatened. Abused. Despised.
My Jesus loved them. His love for them.
Was Real. When they screamed.
He heard them. He stopped in his tracks.
He told them to finally stop fighting.
So that he could do it for them.
Wake up
Listen to me. My voice hurts from screaming.
My strength has drained. I can’t fight anymore.
I need you. To hear me.
You have been daydreaming too long.
See my reality. Understand my life.
Stop blaming me.
Justice is bipartisan. And so is pain.
Call it what you want. Civic responsibility.
Religion. I don’t care.
Do whatever it takes for you to realize.
You are the plan. There is no plan B.
Wake up. Let my voice be your alarm clock.
There is suffering in this world.
People go hungry. Children get AIDS.
Women are forced to have sex.
My situation is not the exception.
I am among the masses.
Take off your Machiavelli face.
And do something.
Apathy is laziness. With consequence.
**Peace
Friday, March 11, 2011
Kansas Hunger Dialogue
I'm baaack...
So, I have decided to start using my blog again. I feel as though, this is one of the few ways that I can get all my thoughts off my chest and keep you all updated with what is going on in the world.
Kansas is back on the map!
Yesterday and today, Erin, Nate, Shawna, and I all had the opportunity to go to the Hunger Dialogue. This dialogue was sponsored by an organization called Numana. Shawna and I got our first exposure to Numana through a packaging event where we were able to help package 100,000 meals to send to kids in schools in Haiti. Now at this Hunger Dialogue, the four of us were representing K-State in order to discuss University initiatives to end World Hunger.
This event allowed us to make a ton of connections with not only other universities, but important players in solving hunger both domestically, and locally.
My Action Plan
1. Share my notes from the dialogue
2. Arrange meeting with key players at K-State
3. Work on a new curriculum that allows K-State students to engage in advocacy in social justice issues.
4. Numana Packaging event during Homecoming week.
5. Civic Leadership retreat at the end of Week of Welcome.
Awesome Quotes from Conference
God's Call
For those of you that consider yourself children of God. He calls us to fight for those that are poor, oppressed, widowed, hurting. As Gary Haugen (IJM) said, we are the plan. There is no plan B. Proverbs 19:17- "If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—and he will repay you!"
With that, I commission you all to join me in the fight for justice.
Ariel
Follow me on Twitter: @auanib
So, I have decided to start using my blog again. I feel as though, this is one of the few ways that I can get all my thoughts off my chest and keep you all updated with what is going on in the world.
Kansas is back on the map!
Yesterday and today, Erin, Nate, Shawna, and I all had the opportunity to go to the Hunger Dialogue. This dialogue was sponsored by an organization called Numana. Shawna and I got our first exposure to Numana through a packaging event where we were able to help package 100,000 meals to send to kids in schools in Haiti. Now at this Hunger Dialogue, the four of us were representing K-State in order to discuss University initiatives to end World Hunger.
This event allowed us to make a ton of connections with not only other universities, but important players in solving hunger both domestically, and locally.
My Action Plan
1. Share my notes from the dialogue
2. Arrange meeting with key players at K-State
3. Work on a new curriculum that allows K-State students to engage in advocacy in social justice issues.
4. Numana Packaging event during Homecoming week.
5. Civic Leadership retreat at the end of Week of Welcome.
Awesome Quotes from Conference
A wise man doesn't have all the answers, but he surrounds himself with people that do
An empty sack can't stand
Hunger isn't the problem, it is the result of the problem (Poverty is the foundation that these problems stem from)
MLK never talked about the problems facing blacks, he talked about the Dream
Trying to change the world without any demonstrable proof of our success--Dr. Walter Wink
God's Call
For those of you that consider yourself children of God. He calls us to fight for those that are poor, oppressed, widowed, hurting. As Gary Haugen (IJM) said, we are the plan. There is no plan B. Proverbs 19:17- "If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—and he will repay you!"
With that, I commission you all to join me in the fight for justice.
Ariel
Follow me on Twitter: @auanib
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Time to Reflect
Hey all,
This is officially my last post talking of my adventures for the summer. I have been back in the states for about 15 days, and man is it extremely weird!
A Not So Welcome Party
So we arrived to the Dallas airport and had to go through customs. I'm going to be honest, it took much longer getting back into our country. Not to mention the fact that the staff was rude! Aside from that, I heard comments like, "Where are all the people that Obama was supposed to be hiring?!" and "Sorry...he is taking a looong time (pointing at an immigrant) because he is not a citizen." Oh my gosh, I wanted to explode. Why is it when I was international going into to Mexico I felt more respected? Not to mention the fact that our plane wanted to leave five minutes earlier than they were supposed to, so that was no fun. Thank God they printed out new tickets and got us to another one pretty quick. Oh and in KC our luggage was lost and we had to wait a little over an hour at the airport. Welcome to the United States of America...
What I Miss
I miss Valentina and tortillas with every meal.
I miss huevos con jamon.
I miss Chile Arrellenos.
------aside from food-------------
I miss my mammas...papas too.
My siblings.
My cousins.
Oscar,Noe,Guztavo, Daniel, Pato, and Octavio who were all technically cousins haha!
The kids.
-----aside from people-------------
Popo(the mountain)
El Campo (the field)
The gardens and lakes
ABSOLUTELY B-E-A-utiful...
But more than anything, I miss the memories . I am sure the RAMA staff at Goodnow is sick of me talking about Mexico, but I can't help it! I went there to make change, but came back changed. I think Luis Miguel said it best, "Mexico gets in your skin".
A Look to the Future
Will I be going back? You better believe it! I hope to go to Monterrey for a week in May and La Presiosita right afterward for a week. I consider my experience in Mexico a blessing from God, and for that I am truly thankful.
Con amor,
Ariel
This is officially my last post talking of my adventures for the summer. I have been back in the states for about 15 days, and man is it extremely weird!
A Not So Welcome Party
So we arrived to the Dallas airport and had to go through customs. I'm going to be honest, it took much longer getting back into our country. Not to mention the fact that the staff was rude! Aside from that, I heard comments like, "Where are all the people that Obama was supposed to be hiring?!" and "Sorry...he is taking a looong time (pointing at an immigrant) because he is not a citizen." Oh my gosh, I wanted to explode. Why is it when I was international going into to Mexico I felt more respected? Not to mention the fact that our plane wanted to leave five minutes earlier than they were supposed to, so that was no fun. Thank God they printed out new tickets and got us to another one pretty quick. Oh and in KC our luggage was lost and we had to wait a little over an hour at the airport. Welcome to the United States of America...
What I Miss
I miss Valentina and tortillas with every meal.
I miss huevos con jamon.
I miss Chile Arrellenos.
------aside from food-------------
I miss my mammas...papas too.
My siblings.
My cousins.
Oscar,Noe,Guztavo, Daniel, Pato, and Octavio who were all technically cousins haha!
The kids.
-----aside from people-------------
Popo(the mountain)
El Campo (the field)
The gardens and lakes
ABSOLUTELY B-E-A-utiful...
But more than anything, I miss the memories . I am sure the RAMA staff at Goodnow is sick of me talking about Mexico, but I can't help it! I went there to make change, but came back changed. I think Luis Miguel said it best, "Mexico gets in your skin".
A Look to the Future
Will I be going back? You better believe it! I hope to go to Monterrey for a week in May and La Presiosita right afterward for a week. I consider my experience in Mexico a blessing from God, and for that I am truly thankful.
Con amor,
Ariel
Monday, July 26, 2010
"It's not goodbye, it's see you later!"
Hey all,
So this will be my second to last post because it is already our last week in Mexico! Who knew that ten weeks could go by so fast and slow all at the same time?!
A Close to service:
Our service officially ended Thursday, July 22. It was definitely bittersweet. On one hand it was awesome because we were able to showcase the older kid's play for the public and it was a huge success! We held a little cast party with them which was cool because it was part potluck, part dance! As far as the little kids in theater classes we just ended with lots of games rather than their play because it was really unstable! Our last week of English classes were amazing to see because we were able to see how the kids had learned over 100 words in English! What a blessing! Mary and I taught the older kids useful phrases like "that's cool" and "I miss you" the last day and they loved it.
May the vacation begin!
We spend Friday, July 23- Sunday, July 25 in La Presiosita as part of our vacation. It was cool getting to spend time with our families along with hanging out with our new-found friends. Sunday night, we went to a baile (dance) in a neighboring town--Coltzingo. It was a lot like the one in La Presiosita on the first of July, but way bigger. It was ridiculous though that although there was a live band onstage, we seemed to be the main attraction. I think this trip is making me immune to staring. Haha, I barely noticed.
Adios La Presiosita...
Let's be honest...goodbyes suck. Yesterday, we went to the houses of all our mammas and close friends of the family to leave pictures that we printed and say goodbye. There were tears and left us feeling pretty depressed. This morning we were at the bus stop at 11AM with our mammas and our families and it sucked because they hugged like they were saying goodbye forever! I didn't cry until I got on the bus and balled for a good 30 minutes. No joke, I am planning a trip through Monterrey and visiting La Presiosita next year before my internship.
Now...we are in Veracruz which is a beautiful city in Mexico. We are staying here for a couple of days and then going to Mexico City for two days. I officially arrive in the States Saturday, July 31st. Note to friends and family, all I want to do is sleep the 31st, so I won't be available to do much of anything! I go back to Manhattan August 6th, so I only have five days to spend time with you all!
I love you so much and can't wait to see good ole Kansas!
Con amor,
Ariel Anib
So this will be my second to last post because it is already our last week in Mexico! Who knew that ten weeks could go by so fast and slow all at the same time?!
A Close to service:
Our service officially ended Thursday, July 22. It was definitely bittersweet. On one hand it was awesome because we were able to showcase the older kid's play for the public and it was a huge success! We held a little cast party with them which was cool because it was part potluck, part dance! As far as the little kids in theater classes we just ended with lots of games rather than their play because it was really unstable! Our last week of English classes were amazing to see because we were able to see how the kids had learned over 100 words in English! What a blessing! Mary and I taught the older kids useful phrases like "that's cool" and "I miss you" the last day and they loved it.
May the vacation begin!
We spend Friday, July 23- Sunday, July 25 in La Presiosita as part of our vacation. It was cool getting to spend time with our families along with hanging out with our new-found friends. Sunday night, we went to a baile (dance) in a neighboring town--Coltzingo. It was a lot like the one in La Presiosita on the first of July, but way bigger. It was ridiculous though that although there was a live band onstage, we seemed to be the main attraction. I think this trip is making me immune to staring. Haha, I barely noticed.
Adios La Presiosita...
Let's be honest...goodbyes suck. Yesterday, we went to the houses of all our mammas and close friends of the family to leave pictures that we printed and say goodbye. There were tears and left us feeling pretty depressed. This morning we were at the bus stop at 11AM with our mammas and our families and it sucked because they hugged like they were saying goodbye forever! I didn't cry until I got on the bus and balled for a good 30 minutes. No joke, I am planning a trip through Monterrey and visiting La Presiosita next year before my internship.
Now...we are in Veracruz which is a beautiful city in Mexico. We are staying here for a couple of days and then going to Mexico City for two days. I officially arrive in the States Saturday, July 31st. Note to friends and family, all I want to do is sleep the 31st, so I won't be available to do much of anything! I go back to Manhattan August 6th, so I only have five days to spend time with you all!
I love you so much and can't wait to see good ole Kansas!
Con amor,
Ariel Anib
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Service is Unpredictable...
Hey all,
I know, I know, I have not updated in exactly one month! Not only has our busyness started to pick up, but internet here has been extremely sketch. It rains practically every day, so when I see that the weather in JoCo is 92 degrees, I am in shock! Although, I can't be as detailed in this blog as I usually am, I will try to give you an overview of what you all have missed!
Largest Market--June 15:
An hour from La Preciosita is San Martin! It has the largest market in Latin America, so it was awesome! I don't know if I have ever seen so many clothes in my life! It was baffling. After a little bit of shopping, we went to the "food court" to eat lunch. We chose the food stand of one of the nicest families! The dad was convinced that I was Jamaican, and the mom was amazed by the fact that we called Mama Lupita, mom!
Mamma Natalyia--June 16:
We left from Mama Lupita's house which only has three habitants to Mama Natalia's which had fourteen people total (including the four of us)! To get there we had to walk through the whole town with all of our luggage! That was no fun haha! Our stay in Mamma Natalia's house was almost always eventful. The negative I could say is the fact that she has like 50 sheep, so the nights weren't too great for me! On June 20, we went on a Sunday outing with the whole family and they took us to San Andres! It was supposed to be a two hour ride, but we got a flat. So, while we waited we had some awesome family bonding time, and I go to know Mamma's story. Also, we stopped on the way to see a bull riding contest. I could never ever do that! In San Andres, there was a cathedral on a boat that was absolutely beautiful!
The kids--June 23
After our class, we went up on the basketball court and played an intense game of soccer! However, when we were done, the kids followed us back to our house and insisted we played more! So we followed them back to the court and played for a whole 'nother hour! It was awesome being so appreciated by them! However, we were so sore the next day.
Mamma Benita--June 25:
We moved to Mama Benita's house which was a stark difference from Natalia's. It is only Mamma (55 yrs), Papa (70 yrs), and our sis Lupe (13 yrs). Despite the quiet, I learned so much while there. I learned how to basket weave and sew! Unfortunately, I could not figure out knitting whatsoever! Oh yeah, and I also learned how to make my favorite plate--Chile Poblanos! Yes!!
Town Fiesta--July 1:
The whole pueblo had a party which was pretty awesome. It started with mass at 6AM followed by a mariachi band! I was so tired, I'm not sure that I remember even walking there! Later on in the day there was a fireworks show. It scared the mess out of me because there a was guy with fire on his back running through the crowd! It was like our own little 4th of July! Then there was a dance which was alright.
Puebla--July 4 & 5:
On the 4th, we decided to celebrate Independence day in Mexico by busing to Puebla. There we loaded up on lotion and body wash (we ran out) and went to see Eclipse! After leaving the movie, I forgot I was in Mexico for a few minutes because the mall we went to reminded me of Town Center. The clothes were so expensive! Not only that, but there was an Applebees inside the mall. We went to the Applebees, and I enjoyed a Sampler and a Blondie...unfortunately, it was not worth it when we got the ticket! 82 dollars for four people! No one was expecting it, so a couple of us ran out of money! In total I spent over 25 dollars! Never again.
Mamma Vicenta--July 5:
Moving in Mama Vicenta's house was both good and bad. Good because it was a busy house with her, her husband, Dominga (30 yrs), Israel (18 yrs), Juan Carlos (12 yrs), and Jiovani (9 yrs). We spent many nights laughing, dancing, and playing Jenga! It was bad because she lived a mile up on the biggest hill in town. Don't be surprised when I come back with man legs!
Dances:
While here, we have gone to three dances. Dances here are interesting because there is a lot drinking and smoking of all ages. However, they are an awesome cultural experience because Cumbia is way better than the bumping and grinding we do back in the states!
English Classes and Theater Classes:
Have been a little stressful because ever since the fiesta July 1st, our numbers have been down. Especially with the younger kids... The ones that have been there have definitely been learning a lot, so the our service still feels worthwhile. We are having the older kids' play this Friday and next week we are only going to do one scene of the younger kids' play (due to low numbers).
Random: When something is God's will, he will always open the door.
Whoo! I am NEVER waiting that long again to update! I love and miss you all! See you in 18 days!
Besos de Mexico,
Ariel
I know, I know, I have not updated in exactly one month! Not only has our busyness started to pick up, but internet here has been extremely sketch. It rains practically every day, so when I see that the weather in JoCo is 92 degrees, I am in shock! Although, I can't be as detailed in this blog as I usually am, I will try to give you an overview of what you all have missed!
Largest Market--June 15:
An hour from La Preciosita is San Martin! It has the largest market in Latin America, so it was awesome! I don't know if I have ever seen so many clothes in my life! It was baffling. After a little bit of shopping, we went to the "food court" to eat lunch. We chose the food stand of one of the nicest families! The dad was convinced that I was Jamaican, and the mom was amazed by the fact that we called Mama Lupita, mom!
Mamma Natalyia--June 16:
We left from Mama Lupita's house which only has three habitants to Mama Natalia's which had fourteen people total (including the four of us)! To get there we had to walk through the whole town with all of our luggage! That was no fun haha! Our stay in Mamma Natalia's house was almost always eventful. The negative I could say is the fact that she has like 50 sheep, so the nights weren't too great for me! On June 20, we went on a Sunday outing with the whole family and they took us to San Andres! It was supposed to be a two hour ride, but we got a flat. So, while we waited we had some awesome family bonding time, and I go to know Mamma's story. Also, we stopped on the way to see a bull riding contest. I could never ever do that! In San Andres, there was a cathedral on a boat that was absolutely beautiful!
The kids--June 23
After our class, we went up on the basketball court and played an intense game of soccer! However, when we were done, the kids followed us back to our house and insisted we played more! So we followed them back to the court and played for a whole 'nother hour! It was awesome being so appreciated by them! However, we were so sore the next day.
Mamma Benita--June 25:
We moved to Mama Benita's house which was a stark difference from Natalia's. It is only Mamma (55 yrs), Papa (70 yrs), and our sis Lupe (13 yrs). Despite the quiet, I learned so much while there. I learned how to basket weave and sew! Unfortunately, I could not figure out knitting whatsoever! Oh yeah, and I also learned how to make my favorite plate--Chile Poblanos! Yes!!
Town Fiesta--July 1:
The whole pueblo had a party which was pretty awesome. It started with mass at 6AM followed by a mariachi band! I was so tired, I'm not sure that I remember even walking there! Later on in the day there was a fireworks show. It scared the mess out of me because there a was guy with fire on his back running through the crowd! It was like our own little 4th of July! Then there was a dance which was alright.
Puebla--July 4 & 5:
On the 4th, we decided to celebrate Independence day in Mexico by busing to Puebla. There we loaded up on lotion and body wash (we ran out) and went to see Eclipse! After leaving the movie, I forgot I was in Mexico for a few minutes because the mall we went to reminded me of Town Center. The clothes were so expensive! Not only that, but there was an Applebees inside the mall. We went to the Applebees, and I enjoyed a Sampler and a Blondie...unfortunately, it was not worth it when we got the ticket! 82 dollars for four people! No one was expecting it, so a couple of us ran out of money! In total I spent over 25 dollars! Never again.
Mamma Vicenta--July 5:
Moving in Mama Vicenta's house was both good and bad. Good because it was a busy house with her, her husband, Dominga (30 yrs), Israel (18 yrs), Juan Carlos (12 yrs), and Jiovani (9 yrs). We spent many nights laughing, dancing, and playing Jenga! It was bad because she lived a mile up on the biggest hill in town. Don't be surprised when I come back with man legs!
Dances:
While here, we have gone to three dances. Dances here are interesting because there is a lot drinking and smoking of all ages. However, they are an awesome cultural experience because Cumbia is way better than the bumping and grinding we do back in the states!
English Classes and Theater Classes:
Have been a little stressful because ever since the fiesta July 1st, our numbers have been down. Especially with the younger kids... The ones that have been there have definitely been learning a lot, so the our service still feels worthwhile. We are having the older kids' play this Friday and next week we are only going to do one scene of the younger kids' play (due to low numbers).
Random: When something is God's will, he will always open the door.
Whoo! I am NEVER waiting that long again to update! I love and miss you all! See you in 18 days!
Besos de Mexico,
Ariel
Monday, June 14, 2010
In the Swing of Things
Hey all!
Another long entry today :-P Enjoy!
A taste of home...
June 9: People from Philadelphia came up to learn about La Preciosita. It was nice to speak English. They loved the International Service Teams program (good job Trish). As far a English classes went, it was a review day, so we ended early! We were able to actually bond with the kids by playing soccer. Boys versus girls of course...Unfortunately, I got schooled multiple times by a 16 year old in dress shoes. Figures. Haha.
TO be or NOT to be...
June 10: Showed the kids 11 years and younger the play Shon wrote (I translated) about the zoo and held auditions for them. The play is a mix of Madagascar and Happy Feet. At the end of our stay we are going to present the play to the community!
June 11: Theater workshop for older kids had an awesome turnout which kinda surprised me. They looked excited to act and we even had to write in new characters. Also, I had hot dogs with breakfast. I haven't had a hot dog for six years, so it was a bit of an experience to say the least. This was my favorite day yet because a missionary came to the house and we practically had a Bible study (oracion). It was over the Day of Pentecost and I understood 96% of what he said even though it was in Spanish! Gave me the opportunity to enjoy some "light" reading in the book of Acts.
Ain't No Mountain High...
June 12: Suriel and his sister Sonia (our mamma Lupita's godchildren) took us on a walk today to a place called El Monte. He said it was close, but it ended up being like two miles uphill! It was worth it though! We crossed over a pond and I almost fell in. THe best part was the fact that our tour guide was this little ten year old. THe whole time he kept conversation going and we all decided that we wanted to take him home with us. I wonder what the airport security would say to that. It also was our first day of English classes for adults and only two showed up! Out of the two, one was one of our mammas and the other was our Mamma Lupita's best friend. During the evening we had true family bonding time by having our own little Mexican DP (dance party for you old timers ;-P) Then we pushed our beds together and had a sleepover with our sister Celina.
Ariel Anib...M.D.
June 13: Today, we went to church and were late! Of course, our mamma Lupita walked all the way to the front! It was so embarassing! After church we went to watch two soccer games. The first was against Barcelona and we won! THe second was against Jalisco and they were horrible! One of their players got injured and they had to forfeit the game. Viva la Preciosita! When we got back, I was going to lay in the bed when Suriel comes in asking for Translation help on homework. Eventually I find out that one of his sisters sent him over, so I got up and went to make my first house call. Mary went with me. Not only was the homework hard, but there were three girls over there all needing help with the same homework. It was awesome going over there to meet their need because that is what I'm here for. Furthermore, they were listening to music from the States and it was so interesting because they had no idea what the music was about. My hopes is that come to English classes today!
Favorite food so far: Chile Poblano--Huge Jalepeno Pepper covered in fried egg with Oaxaca cheese on the inside! MMM!
Tomorrow we'll be going to a nearby city called San Martin. Apparently Tuesdays are the days that everything is on sale! YES!!!
Well done to those who made it to the end...
Besos y Abrazos,
Ariel
Another long entry today :-P Enjoy!
A taste of home...
June 9: People from Philadelphia came up to learn about La Preciosita. It was nice to speak English. They loved the International Service Teams program (good job Trish). As far a English classes went, it was a review day, so we ended early! We were able to actually bond with the kids by playing soccer. Boys versus girls of course...Unfortunately, I got schooled multiple times by a 16 year old in dress shoes. Figures. Haha.
TO be or NOT to be...
June 10: Showed the kids 11 years and younger the play Shon wrote (I translated) about the zoo and held auditions for them. The play is a mix of Madagascar and Happy Feet. At the end of our stay we are going to present the play to the community!
June 11: Theater workshop for older kids had an awesome turnout which kinda surprised me. They looked excited to act and we even had to write in new characters. Also, I had hot dogs with breakfast. I haven't had a hot dog for six years, so it was a bit of an experience to say the least. This was my favorite day yet because a missionary came to the house and we practically had a Bible study (oracion). It was over the Day of Pentecost and I understood 96% of what he said even though it was in Spanish! Gave me the opportunity to enjoy some "light" reading in the book of Acts.
Ain't No Mountain High...
June 12: Suriel and his sister Sonia (our mamma Lupita's godchildren) took us on a walk today to a place called El Monte. He said it was close, but it ended up being like two miles uphill! It was worth it though! We crossed over a pond and I almost fell in. THe best part was the fact that our tour guide was this little ten year old. THe whole time he kept conversation going and we all decided that we wanted to take him home with us. I wonder what the airport security would say to that. It also was our first day of English classes for adults and only two showed up! Out of the two, one was one of our mammas and the other was our Mamma Lupita's best friend. During the evening we had true family bonding time by having our own little Mexican DP (dance party for you old timers ;-P) Then we pushed our beds together and had a sleepover with our sister Celina.
Ariel Anib...M.D.
June 13: Today, we went to church and were late! Of course, our mamma Lupita walked all the way to the front! It was so embarassing! After church we went to watch two soccer games. The first was against Barcelona and we won! THe second was against Jalisco and they were horrible! One of their players got injured and they had to forfeit the game. Viva la Preciosita! When we got back, I was going to lay in the bed when Suriel comes in asking for Translation help on homework. Eventually I find out that one of his sisters sent him over, so I got up and went to make my first house call. Mary went with me. Not only was the homework hard, but there were three girls over there all needing help with the same homework. It was awesome going over there to meet their need because that is what I'm here for. Furthermore, they were listening to music from the States and it was so interesting because they had no idea what the music was about. My hopes is that come to English classes today!
Favorite food so far: Chile Poblano--Huge Jalepeno Pepper covered in fried egg with Oaxaca cheese on the inside! MMM!
Tomorrow we'll be going to a nearby city called San Martin. Apparently Tuesdays are the days that everything is on sale! YES!!!
Well done to those who made it to the end...
Besos y Abrazos,
Ariel
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