There were a lot of moments and experiences that stood out to me today, but I really want to focus on one specific on the day. Although getting a better grasp on socio-economics worldwide by visiting the trash dump located near Managua, Nicaragua, I also became more knowledgeable about living a simple life. I began the day of work by arriving at the work site we were to be working at throughout the day.
I noticed the standard of living was not as harsh as I had previously experienced in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, but I was later told by an older Nicaraguan man that was due to multiple "missionary" teams. I worked hard all morning layering 100 pound bricks for the foundation of a house for the old man and his wife.
Later in the afternoon I decided to engage in an intentional conversation with the man. I began by asking him if he needed any help with taking nails out of his wooden sticks. I politely asked but knew in my mind I am not a handy man and had no idea what I was doing. He guided me in the art of nail removing and we talked about each others lives.
Where he lived before Tipatapa? What was the war like? Did he have kids? Some questions were more easily answered than others but I could see the wisdom in his face. Every time he spoke he whispered and croaked through his long life of 72 years. The conversation really opened my eyes to the Nicaraguan culture and to the living standard of this man.
Roo, what a powerful experience you had. I am so glad that you made the time to talk with the person that you helping. You mention at the beginning of this reflection that you gained some knowledge of living a simple life. Can you explain that what that means to you? What did you gain from the conversation with the 72 year old man that made you start with that thought? How did his standard of living change your thoughts on what people really need? Did you have any expectations before you talked to him and did they change after you had the conversation with him?
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