A Better Perspective

At first (expectedly, of course) I was constantly thinking that I had managed to get myself in over my head. My experiences in Kenya didn´t seem to carry much weight or prepare me in any way what so ever for this new adventure in Nicaragua. I couldn´t understand much of the language and I would feel overly nervous when it came time for me to try and communicate my thoughts, opinions or answers.

Having a few days to readjust back in Managua (after a week in the village and absolutely no one to speak english with) I´m beginning to see that those thoughts were born merely of shock and awe. I still have trouble understanding some of what is said, but I´m no longer afraid to stumble over my words and force my way through a conversation.

My 4th of July celebration has consisted of many affirmations. Despite the fact that there has been very little "American" about this holiday, it has been by far my most edifying Independence Day yet. Going out to dinner with two other girls, I´ve been the one to barter with the cabbies. My size, accent and confidence seems to carry more credibility and bargaining power than my companions. My time in Kenya has led me to have no shame in lowballing some one who I now know is trying to take advantage of my skin color. The conversations at dinner were on the different perspectives of the relative absolute poverty of different countries (the unanimous conclusion is that it would be preferrable to be poor in a village in Nicaragua than be poor anywhere in the US). The check after dinner was hastily produced by our waiter with several attempts to elicit an excessive tip (which we were able to catch and avoid on the mere principle of the matter).

I know when I return to the village on Monday, I will be back in over my head, but at least I´ve had this peace of mind and reassurance to know that my lessons are being learned and the experience has not been fully wasted! I´m keeping a close watch on the number of days I have left, and even though the number is currently at 46, I feel like it won´t be enough time to see, do and learn everything I hope to.