Thursday, August 27th

All I have to say about Thursday morning is that our orientation took way too long. Dr. Webber talked about "Language and Culture" which had absolutely nothing to do with what we were trying to learn about Merida and Mexico. This was the day we were going to learn about the culture, but his little talk did not help me in any way, shape, or form. But during this orientation, we all got the priviledge of meeting Jose Luis who is not a professor, but a friend of Val's. He told us do's and don'ts of Merida and Mexico which was very helpful--especially coming from a guy. The only awkward and weird situation was when he was giving us a list of swear words in Spanish so we knew what they would be if we heard them on the streets. I know a couple times I had to ask what a few of the words meant, and that seemed weird because I knew I was swearing in Spanish, but did not feel like it truthfully because I didn't know what it meant in English! But after that experience, we all got the honor of meeting a Central grad named Eva. She works in KC as a community organizer to help inforce change into government systems like housing and finances. It was great to hear her stories and all the things she is able to do with the passion she has for her work. She told us blantanly that if we did not have passion for our work, we would not have success. I was amused by her insight and intellect that only covered the surface of her knowledge of how to become successful. It was also fun because she was a Central grad, so it allowed my brain to dream about what I really was passionate about and could pursue in a not-for-profit but not have to give up a decent salary. She was and I assume a very awesome woman. The last thing that I truly loved about her and her organization called Piko is that it is a Christian organization. :)

Once the afternoon rolled around, our whole group was split up into smaller groups that had the assignment of going downtown and looking at murals and paintings by a famous artist that were hanging in the governor's palace. I was surprised that it was open to everyone and for all day, but I guess that is something else other than street-naming that is different from the US! All I have to say about the paintings was that most of them were depressing for me. The paintings followed a timeline of the Mayan pueblo people, to the Spanish conquest, and then finally to Mexico's independence from Spain. The hurt and struggles that were portrayed in the paintings were very moving and truly demonstrated the hardships the Mayans had to go through just to save their land. I guess daily, I do not realize that the US has such a short history compared to the Mayans. I feel guilty and almost mad at myself that Americans today feel so superior to everyone else because we are the World Power, but the ego and stubborness that is displayed by Americans not only in America but also while traveling is very evident. It makes me angry and embarrassed to be an American down here because of the stereotype we have given off to the Latinos in America. I could go on and on about this topic and debate, but I think I should bite my tongue where I am at!!

Sorry this one was so long! My only hope is not that you can read what I have been up to, but what God has been teaching me through the Mexican culture and people since I have been down here. :)