09 February 2009

Hanging along

Plans are underway for my visitor, Amy. ^_^ We have a rough touristy schedule mapped out. Had to drop a few things--like the Tobago Cays trip--because I will still be doing my regular 'work' duties to the fullest. She'll get a taste of being a volunteer instead of just relaxing the whole time--hey, it was her idea.

Talked with another volunteer earlier. Heard something that made sense--kind of a proverbial kick in my pants. Of course, I had already known and understood what was said, but sometimes just hearing it from somebody else makes all the difference. The conversation went something like this:

You know Shawn, the people here probably wouldn't have been anything different if we were not here. They would probably keep doing the same thing they are doing right now. So if try to do some 200 activities here during my 2 years and only 20 of them actually work out--that's still more than what would have probably happened without us here. Sure, by American standards that is a fairly low percent return and probably considered failing. But here, it's a success. That's what keeps us doing it.


Sometimes you come across music that really sets a moment--not necessarily how you feel, but just something that captures a fragment in time. The last one is a song I listen to regularly. It is one of those reality check songs--such a cheezy 80s sound, but holds a message that is still resonant today.


Josh Groban - You are Loved (Don't Give Up)
(He is amazing!)


Nightwish - The Islander
(Nightwish is actually one of my top bands--but Marco doesn't usually sing this much.)


Midnight Oil - Beds are Burning
(so cheezy....so true)

Stay happy and well
ciao tutti
~your local wannabe jedi
~Shawn

No comments: