Somewhat Surreal

It has been another beautiful day in Copan. Classes are going smoothly, and we are slowly but surely improving in our Spanish skills. It struck me while sitting here in the internet cafe, the large disparity between what we consider the "good life" in the US as compared to here in Copan, Honduras. I have never met a nicer, more agreeable family than the hosts we are currently living with, yet they have very little. Conversation often revolves around family members, and you can be sure that they always have glowing things to say about their kin and community. We are constantly invited to return - or to stay - and truly the kindness and genuineness of the people here is unsurpassed. However, in stark contrast to this beautiful face of the people, the reality of poverty is ever-present. There is no medical care for the people other than a local clinic that closes its doors at 5 o'clock, and is very expensive. The nearest specialist (or pediatrician) is greater than three hours away by bus; and secondary to poor transportation and the closed doors, death during the night has become commonplace. These short-comings are accepted as commonplace, and people suffer every day as a result.

There are often relief groups here in Copan offering their services, and we are beginning to make contacts with people through whom we might get involved and help. We will keep you posted as things develop.

On a lighter note - our language school has excursions every week and today was horseback riding!! One problem - the people of Copan are very small and so are their horses!

Hasta pronto,

JR and Lindsay