Daily Journal
What have I been doing in recent days
Saturday, 31 March 2001
The surf is still big but a bit too messy. Instead of catching a few waves/tubes I gave Mia a hand with sending out her email prayer letter. I was a good time to get to know each other and talk about different ideas and perspectives we have on life. She sure is a top chick.
After helping me sign up with a new internet provider in town, she dropped me at a Lucy's house where I hung out until youth group that night. I was able to learn a whole stack of new words and learn about the difficult upbringing she had had. She also has very clear Spanish so was able to ensure that what I said was correct. At times I speak too quickly and therefore the words aren't right. I will therefore try and slow down and say the right words.
Youth group at the church was cool again. About 25-30 youth attend the meeting that it is just like a church service. This week though we didn't have a speaker for some reason, so instead we played a type of game where one person would say a Bible memory verse and then nominate the next person. I unfortunately don't know too many so dropped out too quick. I will try and learn some in Spanish for next time though.
[ 5:36:46 PM ] +
Friday, 30 March 2001
All of today I hung at Ronne's. While he was doing the finances for Aroma Divino, I sent a few more huge and important emails to the printer and gave him a hand by uploading the first pages of the 3 new web sites and configured the email accounts. I had been working on these for some time so it was good to have them active finally. We still need the main content but it was exciting to get to all happening.
Just before sunset we went to the local school and played soccer with the kids for the surrounding neighbourhood. It was good but I was a bit lethargic due to lack of sleep and food over the past few days. When the games was over I came home, ate a big dinner, chatted to Andy and then went to bed and a reasonable hour.
[ 5:36:33 PM ] +
Thursday, 29 March 2001
Yesterday arvo I saw Alejo in town and he said that I needed to contact the printer about some issue that had arisen with the document. I rang the guy (who thankfully has good English) and then fixed the various problems. After I had emailed the changes to a few of the pictures, I and Ronne prayed for this man as he now has emphysema after smoking for the past 50 years. He is the skinniest guy I have seen and he is continually in quite a bit of pain. It would be so cool if God healed if, so we will continue to pray.
Alejo gave me a lift into town, so for the rest of the arvo and night I hung out with my Abarrotes Amigos. I took the laptop in with me so I could show them a few photos of Australia and my family and friends. They had been asking me for some time so I had finally done it today.
After getting another bit of lunch at Saul's house I went with him on part of the arvo bread run. I was a good time to chat. I put the idea to him that at Easter in a couple of weeks time, that they put some gospel tracks in with all the baskets of bread that they sell. If I understood correctly, he hadn't done or thought of this type of thing before so I hope they are able to do it. They sell bread to nearly all the little shops in the whole community so this little exercise could be very effective.
[ 5:36:17 PM ] +
Wednesday, 28 March 2001
I was able to get a bit of a sleep in this morning and then headed over to Ronne's office to work on a few other projects. In the afternoon us 3 guys headed out to Roca Blanca to surf and enquire about buying grass and bamboo for El Refugio. The surf was not very good (the swell was coming from the wrong direction. There is heaps of size but it needs to clean up a bit before the beach break works again.) so Andy and I got out after about 15 minutes and swung in hammocks for ages talking about all types of stuff and waiting for Ronne for finish getting an impromptu Spanish lesson from his friends.
On the way home we stopped in at a Bible college that is situated right on the beach. The grounds were immaculate and a real treat to be at. These guys have grass and bamboo so we will go back in few weeks and get some to plant on our property. It would be great to have to study here but since it is in Spanish it might be a bit difficult at the moment for me. (But right on a great surfing beach! WOW!!)
While we were at the college, Ronne talked with them about the idea or combining resources to put on a very large concert at both Easter and Christmas on the main beach in Puerto Escondido in front of Aroma Divino. The guys loved the idea as at these times in the year many tourists are around town. I would love to be involved so maybe I'll be back for the first one next year.
One the way home we stopped in at my friends shop in Centro as I had told them I would visit on Wednesday arvo. I gave a few of the guys photos I had taken of them in the previous weeks, which they were sticked about. After a good dinner in the little restaurant across the street, I came back to the shop and helped Priscila with her English homework. It took ages as she wasn't very confident practising, but we did get a bit covered, and hopefully we will do more in the weeks ahead.
[ 5:02:16 AM ] +
Tuesday, 27 March 2001
As per the norm I did some more work on the computer. Alejo came bright and early with some modifications that needed to be sent to the printer. I did these and then went out for the afternoon with my new American friends Brian and his wife Elizabeth. The afternoon was spent talking about spiritual things as Brian was only a newish Christian and didn't have anyone expect his wife to bounce ideas off. For a new Christian he sure has a good understanding and it showed me that God really helps those who earnestly seek him.
This couple live on the top of a cliff overlooking a beautiful little beach. After a huge hamburger for lunch (I had only told Andy the day before that I would be great to eat a hamburger soon) we went down to the beach and swam and sat and chatted some more. I was exciting to hear how God had been working in this couples lives and how enthused they were to share their new freedom and relationship in Christ with those around.
I return to El Refugio after this very relaxing afternoon to enjoy the great food that is provided every Tuesday night at the Bible study. I was supposed to preach but Ronne had asked a local pastor to give the message. The guy didn't seem to have that much content but was vary enthusiastic and he did sing some nice songs. He was challenging the young people to become missionaries, so I appreciated the content and many illustrations.
Tonight at the meeting there was an Aussie guy from Sydney. He was only a new Christian but heard about the ministry here through Christian Surfers. He was a top bloke and I wish he had of had more time to spend with us. I was stocked and am continually pleased to meet people who have become Christians recently, as it shows that people aren't as hard to the life changing power of the cross that we sometimes thing they are.
[ 5:01:53 AM ] +
Monday, 26 March 2001
When I arrived home after church last night I did a lot of work on the computer so that the publication would be finished and would be able to be posted today. I only got a few hours sleep before getting up and having Alejo arrive and getting into the project once again. By now it was becoming the never ending story.
We worked fast and made the necessary changes and were able to have the job done by 4.30pm. Once again it took all day but it seems that the thing is finally over. We sent a disk of the completed work off to the printer in the capital of this State Oaxaca. It might take a few days, but that is Mexico.
My next project for the day was to help an American friend on the Internet. Brian and his new wife Elizabeth want to work in Alaska as they heard there were jobs up there. For about 90 minutes I surfed the internet for him and showed him all the jobs that he might be interested in. It was easy work but also tiring since the lack of sleep from the night before. When we finished this project he dropped me home so that I could get some dinner and get to bed early.
[ 5:01:37 AM ] +
Sunday, 25 March 2001
Since we had a great little surf yesterday we got up and went for another little session at the main break Zicatela. There were too many people but I did manage to get some a few good rides in the one hour before we rushed back to change and then head off to church.
Andy and I went to the Baptist church again and for the first 90 minutes listened to the older guy continue going through the book of Philippians. After the first session with the youth, we went to the main church service. Each week we understand more and more. We can now hear and understand the song numbers or Bible verses being announced and know which book/page to turn to.
After the service (that had another short message) Andy went home while I went to Saul's house. I hung there all afternoon and helped them by eating their food and sleeping in the hammocks. The arvo flew by and it was time again for the next evening service. About 2/3rds of the congregation come at night and the format is similar to the mornings.
After the meeting I was invited by a girl named Lucy to the house where she lives. She is 19 years old and is this Christian families servant. In return for all her work they allow her to attend school and get an education as a secretary. It was different at this place though since the young mother Renae was quite sick. The husband was very concerned for her and he told me that his wife needed an operation or she would die. As he was dropping me home he asked me to pray for her during the week. I said a would and also prayed for him and the family before a got out of the car.
[ 5:01:23 AM ] +
Saturday, 24 March 2001
Todd from California is still here so he, Andy and I awoke really early and went to catch a few waves. We walked down to the beach and got into the water just as the sun came up over the surrounding hills. It was very beautiful and another occasion to be thankful to God for what he has given us.
For the next 2 hours we scored heaps of great waves as we were the only ones on that peak. There were some very large waves further down the beach so we ended up moving but since the crowd was large and I was getting tired I didn't stay too long and ran back to the house just in time to have breakfast and welcome Alejo for anther day of computer work.
The publication came along well today but it isn't finished. I had Alejo watch me for the next 6 hours as we designed all the little adds for the brochure. It was quite time consuming as it was in Espanola and there were heaps to be remade. The ones that I made in the time, we put into their right places but I know that we will have to spend a bit more time on them in the next few days to get the project off to the printer.
I took a break from the computer tonight and went to youth group where the pastor gave a message that was challenging and understandable. This guy preaches a few times a week and has been the pastor of this fellowship for the past 11 years. He works pretty hard and know doubt would love to have an assistant, but probably doesn't due to financial constraints.
When the meeting was over I caught a taxi to Ronne's house where we had some pizza and fellowship in songs with the other staff members. I was heaps of fun singing in English all the great songs that we knew (and ones we didn't know that well either). Before we left we watched the video that Mia and Todd had made one their drive down from California to here in Mexico. The vid had some pretty funny stuff and was a good end to another busy day.
[ 5:00:59 AM ] +
Friday, 23 March 2001
I stayed up working until 1.30am as I was learning how to use the new computer program. I awoke early though as I remembered that the cleaning lady comes and needs to be let in. When I went to unlock the door she was already there, hard at work. Since I was now up I chatted for a while then walked to the beach for a swim then came home and had some breaky, ready for more work all day.
The guy Alejo came at 9am ready to get into his little project. It took (like usual) longer than expected, but for the next 6 hours we got heaps done. Although someone else had previously helped him do some typing and design the adverts, I needed to do some reworking of much of it. The ads were originally done in MS Word so they were unable to be used in the other program and all of the English had been written by a person who had very average English. I therefore needed to and did fix these.
Time always gets away on computer work so we worked way past lunch time but both got so hungry that we took a two hour break before returning to it later. The project seemed easy enough but it went for ages. I worked right through the church meeting that I usually attend on Friday nights and we didn't finish until 10pm. I was exhausted by then and went straight to bed (after getting some late dinner).
[ 8:28:02 AM ] +
Thursday, 22 March 2001
Now that I am feeling better I have been able to do much more work and for heaps more time. I didn't stop today (or even slow down) as Ronne sent around early in the day a guy who needs some computer work done before Saturday. He is making a tourist information brochure that will be updated monthly. I will be putting the stuff into the computer and then laying it out. This guy doesn't have a computer but needs to get the copy to the printers by next week. I have had to learn to use a new program but it is similar and has come up ok.
Late in the arvo I went to Centro for a few hours to pay some bills, get some food and chatted to my mates. It was great fun again as last time I was not up too mucking around much and couldn't concentrate on the various conversations. I am continually amazed by their generosity and warmth. It is great and a true blessing.
The food amount that I have been consuming has gone up again. I normal eat heaps but that has increased again. Since I was unable to eat for a five days, I am sure I lost a bit of weight. My body knows this so is making me so hungry that I just need to keep eating. I guess I am pleasing all those little taco stands and the local grocery store.
[ 8:25:54 AM ] +
Wednesday, 21 March 2001
I am fully better now and am keen to get into some more proper work again. I kicked the day off with a Bible reading and breakfast. While I was studying I got an idea for next weeks Tuesday night sermon so I spent the next couple of hours knocking up an outline and looking through my Bible resources. I hope to have the message prepared before Tuesday as it helps to have time to think about it before it is delivered.
I also found a bit of time to learn some Spanish and then head over to Ronne's to help with the office work. Not long after I got there we came back as some people (Mia and Todd) had finally arrived at El Refugio after a 7 day drive from California. We helped then unpack and then went for some lunch and more fellowship.
The arvo I spent in the office going some checking of the books. Ronne had done some of it but needed me to go over the work and check to ensure that everything is looking right. When this was done Ronne and I got on and bought some new domains for the ministry. At night I worked for a few more hours getting the sites ready to be published as soon as they are setup.
[ 8:25:39 AM ] +
Tuesday, 20 March 2001
When I awoke this morning I knew I was nearly over the diarrhoea that had been plaguing me for the past 5 days. Things weren't fully right but there had been enough improvements for me to get make to some normal food. For the rest of the day I made sure I ate right and drank enough and by the time dinner came around, I was ready for a normal feed.
Ronne ran the meeting and gave the sermon tonight. It was my turn but I do it next week as I wouldn't have been capable of preparing a delivering today. The singing was the best I have ever heard it and a good turn out came to participate. One guy who's wife Christian wife works in Aroma Divino came towards the end of the time. He as per the norm was drunk but when Ronne gave an appeal he came forward crying and asking for help. We all prayed for him as God was bringing him to the end of himself. I have since God working in him even in the past 6 weeks so am looking forward to him being saved and able to stop drink alcohol.
A few guys from Canada came back again tonight. I didn't meet them last week as I was away, but they are here scouting out a place to bring Christian young people before sending them out to be missionaries to the surrounding areas and countries. I am not sure of what to make of them but they seemed keen to share Jesus. They are all young and probably need some training like what we have been getting at Worldview but they are happy to learn as they go. I hope though that those that join with gusto and great enthusiasm don't get to put off by the many negative things that can go wrong. I hope these guys stick around for a bit longer and that they can find a good place to set up as a base.
[ 9:08:22 AM ] +
Monday, 19 March 2001
I was able to get a nice sleep in this morning which was pleasant after such a busy day yesterday. Were had a planning meeting with Ronne just before lunch to get ready for the team coming just after Easter. There will be 32 from California for the 10 days so we will try and make them busy and feel useful. I like it when youth groups get behind missions as many will seriously consider and hopefully go into missions long term.
My health wasn't the best again today so in the arvo I made sure no one stole it or the hammock. Andy dropped in the 4 rolls of film so later in the night I went to town and collected them and some medication. I was felling a little bit better after the rest in the afternoon and a bit of food, so walked up town to show the friends the photos of the past two days.
Showing photos is a great way to force the expansion of my language as I try to explain various shots. They all liked the pictures and I might have to get a few copies for them before I leave. Again my mate the taxi driver gave me a lift home as he lives past my house. I will try and help him with his English in coming weeks so he can communicate with the many tourists whom he transports.
[ 9:33:27 AM ] +
Sunday, 18 March 2001
I did get up in time to meet my friends but wasn't ready until about 5.15am (still very dark) but they didn't arrive until 5.50 as the guy who was meant to pick us up didn't show and he doesn't have a phone in his home. Instead of his truck we rode the 4 hours in the back of a mates colectivo.
Normally this type of travel wouldn't have been a problem but the rode was very windy and the exhaust fumes were staying inside the canopy. When this was combined with the previous diarrhoea problems and the bad food from yesterday's weeding (that made many others sick), it was not that surprising that I spewed up the two eggs I had had for breakfast. It wasn't the best sight but did I feel a bit better.
For the rest of the journey (more than half was on bumpy dirt roads) I sat in the back I didn't see much of the view. We arrived just before the service was planned to commence and then were ushered into the hall to have a meal. I got some of it down but wished I was capable of eating more.
After the meal and some more waiting around we actually started the church service. It didn't go for to long as it was a an introduction to the baptisms that were to be done a little later in the creek 10 minutes walk back down the mountain. The whole church went and I was asked to take photos of the 4 people. The setting was as nice as one could imagine and the water was very cold for all involved. When all of it was over we went back up to have the next part of the service.
The pastor had asked me earlier to share in one of the meetings. For the first time I shared my testimony in Spanish. I went for about 5 minutes and only really needed the prompting of my dictionary twice. It was quite very memorable and emotional experience in many ways and one that I won't forget. The pastor asked the congregation if they understood what I said and they all put up their hands, so it can't have been too bad. I trust he was joking too when he invited me to preach next week too.
After the second service we enjoyed another meal and the left for the long trip home. I was feeling a bit better and since there were so many people in the colectivo whom we gave a lift to the next town, Andy and I were required to sit on the roof of the cabin. I was able to see much more of the beautiful mountains and appreciate God's handy work.
The trip home was a long one and as long as I stayed standing up and had plenty of breeze then the petrol fumes were no problem. We dropped Andy of home and I went into town to get a light snack. I didn't quite understand what was being ordered so ended up getting a meal. I couldn't fit it all in so it will become a meal for another day.
Although today was long and I was a bit sick, I feel that it was a very special day. The people in the mountains are different and I love them. They seemed reserved and yet very friendly. Maybe God will have me work with this or another unreached people group in the future.
[ 9:33:17 AM ] +
Saturday, 17 March 2001
Last night I slept uncomfortably again as the stomach complaint was stilling be quite effective. I did do a quick job at Ronne's before getting along to the wedding around lunch time.
The function was set to start at 12.30 at the peoples house but we were told to go into town first and then get a lift with some others. The others were not ready so Andy and I went with one other family who were wanting to be more on time. When we arrived nearly 25 minutes later we noticed that we must have been some of the earliest. My other friends arrived after the ceremony but in time for the food.
We weren't sure what to buy for a wedding present so Andy and I use our good cameras to take photos. We both took about 40 shots so hopefully they will be suitable. The whole wedding was quite different to what we have in our home countries so it was difficult to know what and when things were going to happen. Looking back at the function I would say that it was quite relaxed and yet the family would have spent a few dollars on putting on the whole event. They had heaps of waiters to provide that great food and a good size local band to give the Mexican music feel.
Due to my upset stomach I was unable to eat much of what was offered. Obviously I didn't like to reject the food so I did eat a little of what they brought out. I hope I get to go to another one before I return as it all looked so nice. The cake was especially a treat as it was 3 huge tiers that was later cut up for all the guests.
By the end of the day I was still feeling sick so I went home to rest up for the next big which will be taking us to the mountains to visit a church that was planted by the Baptist church that I attend in town. It sounds like it will be a full day as we are supposed to meet the others at 5am. I trust that that is Mexican time and that they will be late as per the norm.
[ 9:33:03 AM ] +
Friday, 16 March 2001
The past night was quite uncomfortable for me. I have an annoying case of diarrhoea that is making me lethargic (more than normal!). I was supposed to be at Ronne's this morning to help him with the pays but got there a bit late and left as soon as they were done. For the rest of the day I stayed close to my bed or the toilet.
At night I had planned to meet 6 Aussie guys at the bus terminal. I went into wait and attended the Friday night church meeting but came home after 30 minutes as I was feeling way to crook. A taxi driver friend gave me a free lift home, which I was very pleased about, as I didn't think I'd make it in the colectivo. I went back to bed and let Andy deal with them if and when they showed.
[ 9:32:50 AM ] +
Thursday, 15 March 2001
It is good to be back and I am feeling more refreshed and ready for some work. I headed over to Ronne's for a meeting at 9am and we went through a few items then headed into town for some errands. As per the norm it took quite a while to get everything done since he always stops for a chat.
While Andy and I were waiting for him, we saw a car pull up across the street from the shop we were at. It was just after school had finished for the day and many parents would be going home for a two-hour lunch and siesta. The driver got out of the big old car with his school uniform on. He was about 13 years of age. Next, another boy climb out the front door and he looked about 10 years of age. Finally what looked like a younger brother climbed out and he was no older than about 8. It continues to surprise us as to the so few amount of road accidents we see when this type of scenario happens so frequently.
As we were finishing the errands we went via Aroma Divino and grabbed a quick bite. For the rest of the arvo I chilled out at home and had a sleep for a couple of hours as I was felling off-colour. Ronne invited us over for dinner and after I went into town to pick up my photos. As I walked up to see my friends I was feeling sicker and sicker so came home after about another half-an-hour and went straight to bed.
[ 9:32:37 AM ] +
Wednesday, 14 March 2001
The nice little short vacation ended today. We all went back to our appropriate places of work but not until a bit more great food, swimming in the surfing and diving into the pool off the roof. When it was time to leave we said good-bye and the other 3 guys left me at the bus terminal before heading back to Cuernavaca.
I paid for a first class bus but didn't quite get it. The air-conditioner work partly and dripped over one of the other passengers. The toilet was out-of-service and this caused me GREAT agony for two and a half hours between stops. Unlike the other buses too there were no movies but I wasn't that worried since the movies were often horror ones, which I can do without.
Again there were friendly locals and an Aussie tourist to chat to. The young women was a teacher from Tassie who was on her way to Costa Rica to teach English in an International School. We became good friends so when we arrived I helped her find another bus terminal and get the ticket for her next 14 hour trip. After a bit of food at a local restaurant, I stopped by my friends in the corner stores for a while before catching a colectivo home and going straight to bed (after grabbing the many awaiting emails!).
[ 9:32:28 AM ] +
Tuesday, 13 March 2001
It was a much better sleep last night as they tied the rooster up to a chair so it didn't crow all night again. After a good time of reading the Bible we all came in for another good size and healthy breakfast that Berto's mum had prepared. While the food was settling we sat on the roof overlooking the beach and enjoyed God's wonderful creation.
When it warmed up a bit more and the food had gone down we all grabbed a boogie board and headed out into the very appealing surf to catch a few waves. It was just the right size for the other 3 beginners and I ventured out a bit further where the waves were that little bit bigger. The water here seems clean and was a nice temperature to enable us to surf for a few hours and then retire to the pool and jump the 5m off the roof into the pool below.
After a bite to eat we went to Berto's Dad's little farm 5 minutes drive away. We spent the rest of the arvo there relaxing and sampling some of the produce. Among other things he has at least 60 coconut trees, so we raced around in the ute and ripped off any good size ones that were in arms reach. These got cut and we drank the watery contents and then the flesh (with Chile of course!).
After a few more swims in the pool I rested in the chairs in the huts on the beach. The boys thought it was a good idea to bury someone in the sand, so I was targeted. They needed two attempts but successfully buried my whole body below the surface and proceeded to walk on me. Thankfully I (and of course they) found it amusing at the time.
Just before the sun went down the local boys came down to the beach for a game of soccer. Jeff and I joined in until we were called away for dinner. After dinner we cruised the town again in search of some bargains and watch the scenery. I got about 25 percent knocked off the price of some sandals so they was the best bargain (next to a 30cent cone at McDonalds!).
[ 9:32:09 AM ] +
Monday, 12 March 2001
Even though we were on holidays there was to be no sleeping in. We had a thick blanket on the tile floor that was the bed and right outside in the courtyard was a rooster that started crowing at 4.30am. We were all disturbed by this and yet were thankful later to the other chickens that made us the eggs for breakfast.
During the day we made sure the 3 metre deep pool got good use and the surf that was in front of the house. The Mexican guys weren't the best swimmers and I had to help them when the tide took them out a bit too far. For Jeff and me it was obvious what needed to be done to get back to shore but for the inexperienced swimmer it is easy to see how they quickly drown. Thankfully this didn't happen.
After a nice bit of fresh fish for lunch up the rode and a different street side shop, we went to see a few more sights in and around Acapulco. By late afternoon we were feeling a bit weary but found the energy to go and watch the rock jumping that is world renowned. We saw 4 dives and where impressed by them all. They started with a young boy and then worked up to the finally at the top of the cliff.
On the way home we stopped to price boat trips in and around Acapulco but they seemed not quite necessary as we could have fun with out the extra expense. When we returned home we went out onto the beach and prayed for a while about various needs and for each other. It was good to have this type of fellowship and Jeff can be thankful of the great guys he works with all the time.
[ 9:31:51 AM ] +
Sunday, 11 March 2001
Early this morning before church I went to Aroma Divino to help Andy prepare the bench top for another coat of varnish. The top has been covered all week and needs to be finished before the heavy season starts next month. On returning I quickly packed a few things I would need for the next 4 days in Acapulco and the caught the next colectivo into Centro. I got off early to but the bus ticket and then walked up to the church for the next hour as the best bus was leaving shortly.
The bus to Acapulco took 8 hours and thankfully it was in good condition. I got a seat towards the back and was able to sleep much of the way. If I wasn't resting I was talking with others in nearby seats. There was an older couple from Rockhampton across the aisle so I talked to them about their travels. I didn't really like them though as they weren't very appreciative of the differences in the culture and wanted things here to be the same as they are back in Australia.
In the seat right next to me I always had a Mexican so I would talk in Spanish. They needed a few phrases to understand my accent and sentence structure then we would be away. One young guy told me that he didn't like people speaking in English and asked why they didn't speak Spanish. I gave him what I though was a suitable answer and hopefully he remembers it for next time.
When the bus arrived at the Terminal I waited in hope that Jeff and his mates would show. I had no idea whether they would even come tonight so I went to the chicken restaurant across the street and waited while consuming some more good Mexican food. After an hour there was still no sign so I returned to wait again in the terminal. Many more busses came and went and so did another two hours. I tried to ring some WEC folk who may have known what Jeff's plans were but the phones wouldn't work. About 5 minutes before I was about to get in a taxi and find a hotel the 3 guys turned up much to my relief.
The guys had taken the long way from Cuernavaca since it was heaps cheaper but where cutting the timing a bit close. We happily drove off into town to view a few sites, then onto one of the guys parents house at the beach. Before we arrived at the house we stopped and had some very tasty tacos in a street side stall. It was also a nice time to chat and meet the other two Mexicans (Francisco and Berto) who drove Jeff down.
[ 4:28:40 AM ] +
Saturday, 10 March 2001
This morning I gave Ronne a hand in the office and then did a few odd jobs around El Refugio. The surf was small again and a bit blown out so I didn't check it out any further. I actually haven't been for a few days so I would like it to be a bit better when I go to Acapulco tomorrow.
Andy and I caught a colectivo into Centro tonight to attend the youth group that is on every Saturday night. Thankfully it wasn't the normal program as it was very boring. The meeting went for 3 hours and nearly all of it was a lengthy discussion about whether they should support one of the youth who wants to go and be a missionary for the next year to another two a few hours away.
The reason for the long debate was whether they could or would financially support him. For us from the west it seemed and is little cash but for these young people who earn only a small amount of money, it is a big think. The whole discussion made me (and Andy) think about how our own youth groups would go if they had to give $800 a month. The discussion seemed tedious but was obviously needed and worthwhile.
[ 4:28:00 AM ] +
Friday, 9 March 2001
I helped Ronne for a short time today and then went to Centro to attend the Friday night church service. I got a bit waylaid talking at the shop so arrived just in time for the next meeting. Instead of having a sermon they showed the movie Peace Child. I don't recall seeing it before but knew the story as a few years ago I heard the guy talking in Brisbane.
It was cool to watch the drama unfold as the missionary gets laughed at after first telling the gospel message and then is able to find a different way for the people to appreciate the truth in a way that is relevant to them. The movie only went for half an hour so after we grabbed some dinner and then got a lift home.
[ 4:27:14 AM ] +
Thursday, 8 March 2001
Today I have been busy doing some computer work. It has taken all day but much was covered. The waves have dropped off considerably in the past few days so the beach wasn't too enticing. Now though that I have caught up on much of my work. I should be able to spend tomorrow with Ronne and then Saul.
[ 3:19:27 AM ] +
Wednesday, 7 March 2001
The talk last night made me tired but I did get up early and make the Aroma Divino team ID cards that Ronne wanted. At the shop many locals come but like to have their expenses put on a tab. This has been getting a bit out of control so we are changing to no tabs but discounts to card holders. We will also get some info about each of the regulars and might put a bit of a profile about them on the web site.
Just before lunch I went to Ronne's and helped with the finances. This didn't take too long so soon after I went to the corner store for more talking. Yesterday Saul had invited me to come with him on the afternoon bread run to the local district. Before we left for that some of his sisters and friends had me correct their English class homework. Some was good but others need a bit more help.
The bread run itself was eye-opening. We went to a small town 10 minutes north of here called Chila. The town is small and seemingly impoverished. Apparently there is very high unemployment and the housing is less than ordinary. Many people lived there and probably just as many very rough looking dogs. Although it is different it was quite interesting to see how many others in Mexico live. After Chila we travelled around the rest of Puerto Escondido selling the many local stores sweet bread for the next day.
Tonight was also special since Mexico was playing Brazil in Soccer in Guadalajara. We watched the game in one of the local taco restaurants just down the road. The game was quite exciting but only commentated in Spanish so I had to watch quite intently. Other friends came and joined us later and then gave me a lift home after the game draw 3 all at full time.
There was one thing that was distressing while I was watching the game though. I man who was blind came into to but a bottle of water. Some other men were there and they started to say rude things and make fun of him. As he left he, in thankfully not too forceful a way, walked into the front door. These guys thought it was so so funny, but the blind man started to throw punches. It settled down quickly but when the man left the man imitated the way the man walked. I couldn't believe people would be so cruel and the no one did anything. Had I been back I Australia or had better Spanish I wouldn't have just watched.
[ 3:19:08 AM ] +
Tuesday, 6 March 2001
Today can be summarised as busy and fulfilling. I really had a good desire to learn a whole lot more Spanish so that I can be more effective. I sat down and after my quite time and some breaky I did one lesson of the Spanish in 10 minutes a day that took one hour. It always takes ages but it sure does help. Today was mainly about telling the time.
After the study and sending a few emails, I cruised over into town to check the prices of bus tickets to Acapulco for next week. I will be going to hang with Jeff King for a few days and we will be meeting there, as it is about halfway. The price is ok as it is half the trip to Cuernavaca.
After getting travel prices I spent the rest of the arvo at Saul's corner store chatting to who ever was free. It was heaps of fun and most of the time I talked with Saul or Noe. I continued to learn and then write new words in my book so it is getting quite full now. Around 2pm Noe and I went back to his place for lunch. His mum knocked up some great tasting tortillas and beans with Mexican steak.
After lunch I caught the colectivo straight home to tidy the house. When everyone arrived for the meeting I was asked if I had prepared a talk. To me it was clear the Ronne would be preaching but since he had to work at Aroma Divino that afternoon he hadn't had time to prepare. I wasn't sure whether I should or what to talk about. When some of the local surfers arrived later, a raced up stairs and wrote down a few notes about Romans 5:1-10.
After having only spent less than 15 minutes getting my thoughts together I got up and talked for 40 minutes with Sherry translating. She did a great job as what I said wasn't the easiest to be translated. Those listening seemed to understand and appreciate what I shared, so I can thank God for getting me through.
[ 3:18:29 AM ] +
Monday, 5 March 2001
This morning I was too tired to get up for the early surf but jumped on the pushy to go to the local shop to pick up my photos I dropped in on Saturday arvo. I was keen to get this back since I had taken some photos for the neighbours kids across the street. This young family would never be able to afford a camera so I gave them some photos of their kids. Of course they were pretty stocked.
Ronne and I cruised around and did a few more errands this morning and went to the hospital and prayed for the night watchman for Aroma Divino who is ill. We prayed for healing and he was partially healed on the spot. It is exciting to be able to participate in this sort of activity.
For the rest of the arvo us 3 guys went to Roca Blanca for a team surf. The waves weren't too good but for the other too it was a good workout. I didn't stay in too long as I didn't want the exercise and needed to test the hammocks in the grass roofed huts. Quite relaxing and much needed after such busy weekend. It was good to chat as guys about guy things and to get to know each other in a better and deeper way.
[ 3:22:32 AM ] +
Sunday, 4 March 2001
Saul gave me a lift home late last night, which was nice. I saw him again at church this morning in the Sunday school time and then after the service. Both meetings were great, while the service itself was very short compared to last week. The pastor spoke for no more than 7 minutes and the songs seemed like the exact same ones as the week before. I wish I was musical as I would taken them up on the request to give them a hand.
After the meeting I spoke to a few friends and then went home with Nao (pronounced nah-oo) a scored a free lunch at his house. His family is large and they all live in a two bedroom house. The food was great and them we went and had a swim at the sheltered part of the beach for about 2 hours. I and these two guys just stood in the water and chatted bout all sorts of things and caught a wave or two when they came.
At night I went to church again. It was as per normal except that they had communion as well. Only those who were members could participate but they didn't stop Andy or I have joining in. Those that wanted to take part had to stand up for the whole time while one person served everyone. It was different and good.
We went and tried out a few more rides after church at the fair tonight. Andy came this time and we had a great time. I only went on one ride but it was heaps fun. For much of the time we watched and laughed so hard at those using the bumper cars. Here they don't have any rules or seatbelts for the dodgems. Many parents had their little kids or babies on with them and they had a hard time staying inside the car when it was rammed. We saw a few people whack their heads on the dashboards or the steering wheels during all the excitement. It was definitely much more interesting and action packed than the cars back in Australia.
For us from the west the rides weren't too expensive but for the locals they easily spent a few days wages in one evening. When they were finished at the fair we all walked down and feasted on some Tacos at a local corner restaurant. The food was nice and the company not too bad either. As I was once again getting late we scored a lift home with the only guy in the youth group with a car, which saved us a few bob as the taxi's charge tourists extra.
[ 3:22:09 AM ] +
Saturday, 3 March 2001
I didn't get dropped home by Saul until late last night but had to get up to go surfing with Andy and Ronne at the point. The surf was so dud up there so while Andy went out Ronne and I chatted on the beach for a good while. We then drove back to Aroma Divino and I went for a 30 minute session while Ronne kept talking.
We didn't get too much other work done today as we chatted at Aroma Divino until the early afternoon. I meet and talked with two different groups of Australians today too. I never know whether to speak English to tourists as I never know if they have English or only look as though they would speak English. It was good to chat and I relate in a normal' and more comfortable way with having to think up the words to continue the conversation.
In the night I went to the evangelistic meeting that was being held in the tourist area by the local Baptist church. The meeting started about 25 minutes late but people where still arriving an hour later. The meeting was good and so was the meal that followed. I saw one of the hard-core' boogers at the meeting saw worked my way over and talked with him. He was a nice guy, not a Christian yet but his mum attends this church. I will try and get to know him in coming weeks too.
After the meal all of us youth went to the carnival that Holy Spirit been in Centro for the past week. 7 of us rode in a beat-up old car that didn't have a roof or a back seat. I was the guest so I got the front passengers seat while everyone else stood in the back. It was quite an experience as the car struggled to climb the hills that take you into the Centro.
At the carnival I and the other guys went on one ride that works in a pendulum motion. The thing went for 10 minutes and you hang upside down for a good bit of it. I sat in the front row and got a great view of the earth but it is not too surprising that I was feeling a bit off colour by the end. We didn't go on any more rides but did watch the many other people who were there.
It was now well after 10pm and I was felling really tired but for them the night was still young. We then went to some guys house that is out of and on the other side of town. After chatting for 15 minutes or so they brought out a huge tortilla for me and all the other guys. I guess because I was the guest I got a whole one myself while there others got to share one between two. This would normally have been great at 7pm and as an evening meal, but after dinner, at 11pm after a turbulent ride at the fair, it was quite a struggle even for me. I battle through it though so as not to offend the hosts. I'll try and be more prepared next time.
[ 3:21:50 AM ] +
Friday, 2 March 2001
The past few days have been cloudy of late but the surf was pumping this morning. I didn't go out though despite the near perfect conditions. Mando and his family went back to California around lunchtime so they took Andy and me out to breakfast at the beach at Zicatela. I ate a good amount and helped the kids by finishing their meals as well.
Since Ronne only got back yesterday I hung out with him doing a few errands around the area. He takes ages to do this as he always stops fro a chat and a personal catch-up on what has been happening in the persons life of late. He to me resembles a good and true missionary as he doesn't pass up opportunities to share the gospel.
At night Andy and I went to the Centro to check out the action. In the arvo I had seen that they were setting up for a concert in the street so we went to see what the occasion was. The whole fiesta was because a new Konica camera shop had opened and this was the inauguration celebration. They even had a Mexican look-a-like of Sylvester Stalone to get a photo with. We gave the offer a miss but maybe another time (not!).
The street party wasn't the most exciting so we went and hung out with the youth from the Baptist church at their shop. We talked for a while about all types of things and then walked up to the church just in time for the closing prayers for the Friday night service. On these evenings they have different groups for different ages or genders. We went to the youth one as they think we are still young. On the way back to the shop we stopped by and browsed the Christian bookshop then grabbed a few more tortillas. I had them twice today so the effect will be noticeable tomorrow no-doubt.
[ 3:21:23 AM ] +
Thursday, 1 March 2001
I have been able to get up early recently and today was no exception. The night security guard at Aroma Divino needed to be paid today for the past two weeks so I rode the pushy down before he finished at seven and gave him his pay. Since the surf looked so good I went out and was the first in the water at 7am. I got a few great waves before others joined my and then the crowd after that.
I hadn't had any clothes washed in a few days so I caught the colectivo into the Centro and got the clothes washed and then went and bought some new brakes for the bike. I walked via my new friends Saul's shop and he volunteered and gave me a lift in his beat up van to the bike shop up the road. The parts were super cheap and eventually the lady understood what I wanted.
I hung out chatting at Saul's shop for ages more and then cruised home on another colectivo. The other staff at Aroma Divino need to be paid so I went and prepared their pays in Ronne's office. Just as I finished he and his whole family returned from the airport. Of course all were pleased to have their dad back after 3 weeks.
Before the second shift started I went to Aroma Divino and gave out the pays then went into the tourists main street to collect Andy's photos. They came out ok but are quite expensive to get developed. I'll get some of mine done next week after I finish the roll.
I returned to Ronne's and chatted while eating a good size lunch that their house lady makes every day. There wasn't much other work to be done today so I went back to see Saul and his friends and family. I hung there until 7pm and then came back via the laundrette where my clean clothes were waiting. I had heaps more this week so it cost a bit more than the normal.
A 20 year old German girl named Sabina was still at El Refugio when I got home. She was here a few months ago but left for only two or so weeks. That was 3 months ago so we were surprised when she returned. She like other young people who come here struggle with living out a Christian life with the many pressures of the world. While she was away she got a big tattoo of one of the local gods on her arm. We all trust that she will be able to stay safe while she travels around by herself for a few more weeks.
[ 3:20:52 AM ] +