Matter of Perspective

Reflections from the Dominican Republic - Part 2

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

Before we left, as a family we decided that no matter what circumstances came our way, we would choose to make the best of it and not complain. That meant if things changed at the airport, we were hungry, hot or tired we would say nothing. I often reminded myself before we left, that our living environment was only temporary, 5 days to be exact. When we came home, we would return to things as normal. However, we would leave behind a village of people who would continue to live just like before we came.

As we drove into the community, it was just as I had expected. The landscape was green and lush, with large pastures of untouched land. If it was the US, we would plant corn or beans, or fill the land with livestock such as cows or horses. The houses were of made of cinderblock, tin, or wood. As we drove in, there were waves and smiles from children and adults alike. It made me think how at home when someone passes by, we look straight ahead or down, not even acknowledging that there is another human in our midst. In addition, most of us were foreigners, strangers that they had never met.

We were filled with anticipation and excitement for this new adventure we were about to enter. Until, the bags were unloaded and we began to methodically set up our new homes. Sheets were on the beds, fans were filled with batteries, mosquito nets were tightly embracing our space to shield us from unwanted visitors. As we were moving around, we felt the heat from our tin roof, and our shirts became drenched from perspiration. Within a half hour, I found myself without little relief and nausea came over me very quickly. I kept telling myself, it's Ok, I will not be sick. It lasted for several hours and I was so grateful when it passed.

Each day that passed, I found myself thankful for the fan that swept a slight breeze over me and the power that we had for few hours of the day in the afternoon to get out of the heat for just a few moments. I was thankful for the cool, fresh water that they put ice in, filling my water bottle. The people of our village, don't have clean drinking water, electricity, showers, toilets or running water. They carry water on their heads for cooking and sponge off and wash their clothes in a bucket by hand. Most families eat only one meal a day. We quickly saw in less than 6 hours we live in a country of freedom and material abundance. Each night ended with thoughts of thankfulness and how blessed I truly am!