We're hoping to pull together another trip this spring, to again, focus on serving at the Infirmary. In the meantime we're gathering resources to share with the Nichola, the nurse who now volunteers at the Infirmary to help residents become more active, build muscular strength, and engage people in recreational activities.
We found some great videos on YouTube that show all kinds of physical therapy related activities for the elderly, but alas, we cannot secure computer and internet access for her until a team returns to Jamaica in January. It is things like this which make this long-distance work so challenging at times. We have an idea that we simply cannot implement. While there is likely access to a wireless signal, it would require a laptop to get online! Sigh.
We may head down mid-March (taking up to 8 people with us) or we may shoot for taking a larger group (we'd need at least 18 people) in mid-May. Interested???
12.03.2008
4.09.2008
Everybody wins.
It has been a couple of weeks since we returned from Jamaica and while we have been "quiet" when it comes to blog posting, we have been very "noisy" behind the scenes.
During the week the Matron had identified several needs which we worked on immediately. There was one need however which was quite a bit bigger and at one point she suggested a solution which we were really excited about trying to implement. We took both the need and the proposed solution to Won by One to Jamaica and they have decided to help support the resulting project.
So what was the need and the proposed solution?
As you have likely realized in many of our photos and stories shared thus far, there are a number of people who need help rebuilding muscle mass, increasing their mobility (for circulation, muscle retention, etc) and people who simply need exercise to stay healthy.
In addition, everyone at the Infirmary could benefit from recreational activities (which we tried to explore and assess in 2006 & 2007) to keep their minds fresh, hands busy, and spirits high.
The Matron had identified the need for physical conditioning and activity as an improvement to residential care, but also recognized that the Infirmary could not financially support the hiring of new personnel to lead activities.
She had a resume on file for Nichola, a young woman who lives in Harmons. We'd brought in Nichola's resume earlier in the week related to a separate open position at the Infirmary. Nichola has several nursing diplomas and has been seeking employment for a significant period of time. She is an incredibly warm person with integrity, confidence, and a persevering heart.
As our conversations with the Matron went deeper about their need for someone to lead physical activities her eyes widened. Tapping on Nichola's resume, still on her desk, she said "Perhaps SHE could do the job!",
Ryan and I had been having a similar conversation the night before and were thrilled that the Matron had come up with the same idea on her own.
Once we returned to the U.S. we spoke with Won by One and the organization was very supportive of the project to hire Nichola as their full-time employee who will volunteer at the Infirmary on a daily basis.
Ryan and I have committed to raising 50% of the yearly salary for this position and Won by One has committed to raising the other 50%. The Matron and Nichola will be meeting this week and finalizing the new agreement.
At present we have funds to pay Nichola for just over one full year. Thanks to a series of gracious donors the position is funded from April 2008 to July 2008.
As you might have guessed, we still have other needs to be fulfilled which include training items (books and manuals), physical therapy materials to conduct activities such as stretch bands, stretch tubes, strength-training squish balls, and a variety of other things. So the work is not yet done.
We are thrilled about this new opportunity not only to support Nichola with full time employment, but also to provide the residents of the Infirmary with consistent care addressing their physical needs, and to continue developing a deeper partnership with Infirmary as a whole.
It is not often in life that a project can be so seamlessly conceived, implemented, and still achieve victory on all sides of a collaborative effort. But this time, everybody wins.
During the week the Matron had identified several needs which we worked on immediately. There was one need however which was quite a bit bigger and at one point she suggested a solution which we were really excited about trying to implement. We took both the need and the proposed solution to Won by One to Jamaica and they have decided to help support the resulting project.
So what was the need and the proposed solution?
As you have likely realized in many of our photos and stories shared thus far, there are a number of people who need help rebuilding muscle mass, increasing their mobility (for circulation, muscle retention, etc) and people who simply need exercise to stay healthy.
In addition, everyone at the Infirmary could benefit from recreational activities (which we tried to explore and assess in 2006 & 2007) to keep their minds fresh, hands busy, and spirits high.
The Matron had identified the need for physical conditioning and activity as an improvement to residential care, but also recognized that the Infirmary could not financially support the hiring of new personnel to lead activities.
She had a resume on file for Nichola, a young woman who lives in Harmons. We'd brought in Nichola's resume earlier in the week related to a separate open position at the Infirmary. Nichola has several nursing diplomas and has been seeking employment for a significant period of time. She is an incredibly warm person with integrity, confidence, and a persevering heart.
As our conversations with the Matron went deeper about their need for someone to lead physical activities her eyes widened. Tapping on Nichola's resume, still on her desk, she said "Perhaps SHE could do the job!",
Ryan and I had been having a similar conversation the night before and were thrilled that the Matron had come up with the same idea on her own.
Once we returned to the U.S. we spoke with Won by One and the organization was very supportive of the project to hire Nichola as their full-time employee who will volunteer at the Infirmary on a daily basis.
Ryan and I have committed to raising 50% of the yearly salary for this position and Won by One has committed to raising the other 50%. The Matron and Nichola will be meeting this week and finalizing the new agreement.
At present we have funds to pay Nichola for just over one full year. Thanks to a series of gracious donors the position is funded from April 2008 to July 2008.
As you might have guessed, we still have other needs to be fulfilled which include training items (books and manuals), physical therapy materials to conduct activities such as stretch bands, stretch tubes, strength-training squish balls, and a variety of other things. So the work is not yet done.
We are thrilled about this new opportunity not only to support Nichola with full time employment, but also to provide the residents of the Infirmary with consistent care addressing their physical needs, and to continue developing a deeper partnership with Infirmary as a whole.
It is not often in life that a project can be so seamlessly conceived, implemented, and still achieve victory on all sides of a collaborative effort. But this time, everybody wins.
3.10.2008
We're home!
We still owe you blog posts from Saturday and Sunday, but we're home again which is the most important headline. We realized a bit too late that downloading LOST from iTunes would completely use up the satellite internet feed for much longer than we anticipated, thus preventing us from posting any blog updates. Sorry. At least the episode was good!
We don't have any luggage to show for our arrival (long story), but all in due time! Ryan will be working on that project in between classes today while I am back to work.
Thanks to all our readers - look back in the next few days for more the rest of the story!
Liz & Ryan
We still owe you blog posts from Saturday and Sunday, but we're home again which is the most important headline. We realized a bit too late that downloading LOST from iTunes would completely use up the satellite internet feed for much longer than we anticipated, thus preventing us from posting any blog updates. Sorry. At least the episode was good!
We don't have any luggage to show for our arrival (long story), but all in due time! Ryan will be working on that project in between classes today while I am back to work.
Thanks to all our readers - look back in the next few days for more the rest of the story!
Liz & Ryan
3.07.2008
Friday - May Pen Market Day 5 (Mar 7, 2008)
Today we went to the May Pen Market with Winsome and Evelyn. We took 2 taxis into town and hit a variety of shops during our 3+ hour spree. First we went to the "Super Shopper" which was very much like a large American grocery store. Big aisles, A/C, and lots of options to choose from.
Next we stopped at the Pharmacy which was a store that carried home goods and food, as well as some Jamaican gift items like lacquered burl wood clocks and flag-printed t-shirts. Not too many items caught our eye here, but it was still fun to look around.
Finally we went to the "real" market which was truly a new experience, and not something to be done without a Jamaican guide to help us navigate the narrow corridors, vendors shouting from stalls, or the occasional taxi which would drive right through the middle with its horn beeping in a high-pitched nasal fashion.
In the market Winsome purchased fresh produce for the incoming team who will stay from Sunday to Sunday and build at least 1 house during their stay. She picked up pumpkin, spices, peppers and many other vegetables including onions and tomatoes for the week's meals.
After leaving the first vegetable stalls I bought a large hand-made grater. It is used for shredding coconut and cassava, and possibly other things. It won't get used when we return home, but when I got some strange looks from some ladies later in the afternoon I played up the act. To their curious glances I smiled and said "for cassava and coconut!" and they burst into laughter and simultaneous awe. It was amazing that this white lady really know what she was talkin' 'bout! (Thank you grater man for dropping those tips in your sales pitch)
After the vegetable stalls we went on a mission to find a straw basket without a handle. At every place we tried we were told to venture on to another stall and finally somebody just told us to go to Kingston. Winsome said she might be able to get one in Kingston for me - maybe next time.
We wound our way through several corridors and turned a corner to see the fish area. It was full of very potent smells. So I started breathing through my mouth to avoid the scent.
Another quick turn and we were in a building with more clothes and home goods similar to what we'd see in the stalls where we inquired about baskets. Another turn and suddenly we were in the butchers area. And that's when I realized the fish corner had been mild. The freshly slaughtered beef, pork, and goat was pungent. Almost too pungent. Add in some blood splattered here and there and various organs hanging on hooks and, well, I started to feel a little weak. Had it not been for the guy in the next stall over who started smoking, I would have been unable to stay for very long. The smoke covered the meaty odor and I could breathe through my nose without gagging.
(beef heart and esophogus on the left and the kidneys on the right)
Today we went to the May Pen Market with Winsome and Evelyn. We took 2 taxis into town and hit a variety of shops during our 3+ hour spree. First we went to the "Super Shopper" which was very much like a large American grocery store. Big aisles, A/C, and lots of options to choose from.
Next we stopped at the Pharmacy which was a store that carried home goods and food, as well as some Jamaican gift items like lacquered burl wood clocks and flag-printed t-shirts. Not too many items caught our eye here, but it was still fun to look around.
Finally we went to the "real" market which was truly a new experience, and not something to be done without a Jamaican guide to help us navigate the narrow corridors, vendors shouting from stalls, or the occasional taxi which would drive right through the middle with its horn beeping in a high-pitched nasal fashion.
In the market Winsome purchased fresh produce for the incoming team who will stay from Sunday to Sunday and build at least 1 house during their stay. She picked up pumpkin, spices, peppers and many other vegetables including onions and tomatoes for the week's meals.
After leaving the first vegetable stalls I bought a large hand-made grater. It is used for shredding coconut and cassava, and possibly other things. It won't get used when we return home, but when I got some strange looks from some ladies later in the afternoon I played up the act. To their curious glances I smiled and said "for cassava and coconut!" and they burst into laughter and simultaneous awe. It was amazing that this white lady really know what she was talkin' 'bout! (Thank you grater man for dropping those tips in your sales pitch)
After the vegetable stalls we went on a mission to find a straw basket without a handle. At every place we tried we were told to venture on to another stall and finally somebody just told us to go to Kingston. Winsome said she might be able to get one in Kingston for me - maybe next time.We wound our way through several corridors and turned a corner to see the fish area. It was full of very potent smells. So I started breathing through my mouth to avoid the scent.
Another quick turn and we were in a building with more clothes and home goods similar to what we'd see in the stalls where we inquired about baskets. Another turn and suddenly we were in the butchers area. And that's when I realized the fish corner had been mild. The freshly slaughtered beef, pork, and goat was pungent. Almost too pungent. Add in some blood splattered here and there and various organs hanging on hooks and, well, I started to feel a little weak. Had it not been for the guy in the next stall over who started smoking, I would have been unable to stay for very long. The smoke covered the meaty odor and I could breathe through my nose without gagging.
(beef heart and esophogus on the left and the kidneys on the right)I visited with one of the butchers and learned that the cows had been slaughtered that morning and anything that was not sold today would be taken back and refrigerated. So the meat was incredibly fresh - more fresh than what we'd get at home. We were surprised there weren't any flies around and doubly surprised to learn that they don't do anything to keep them out. All signs pointed to impressive sanitation, even though the scene itself did not feel very sanitized.
(beef on tree stump "cutting block" with the giant cleaver that hacked through bone and flesh)
The singular moment of our time in the butcher stalls that will always be remembered was when the butcher was hacking through bone and a piece of it shot out and hit me in the chin. I was mostly thankful I didn't have my mouth open or it would have gone straight in.
After picking up the meat orders we wound our way back through the maze of stalls and headed to one of our favorite Jamaican stops for dinner (the Jamaican word for lunch). We went straight to Juici Patti for beef patti(s) and pepsi. Delicious.
I thought I would have a hard time eating after spending nearly 30 minutes in the meat/butcher area but I guess I was hungry enough to overcome any disgust.
This afternoon we sat around with Mark and Emily and visited which was really fun. We weren't able to have dinner together (supper) last night due to some surprise tasks that came up at the last minute for them. Their neighbor Dean had spent the last week making charcoal and had just finished bundling it all (nearly 20 bags, each one about 2 ft x 3 ft in size) as night fell. He didn't want to leave it out overnight for fear that someone would steal them. So we went with them in the truck to load it and haul it to his house for safekeeping.
Tonight we will probably relax a bit, try to watch LOST online and also work on the letters and other things we have promised to the Infirmary matron. Tomorrow morning we'll head back around 10 am to give her the documents and to say our goodbyes.
Today was really fun and brought a much-needed break from the work at the infirmary and school. Beef bone and all.
Liz & Ryan
(beef on tree stump "cutting block" with the giant cleaver that hacked through bone and flesh)The singular moment of our time in the butcher stalls that will always be remembered was when the butcher was hacking through bone and a piece of it shot out and hit me in the chin. I was mostly thankful I didn't have my mouth open or it would have gone straight in.
After picking up the meat orders we wound our way back through the maze of stalls and headed to one of our favorite Jamaican stops for dinner (the Jamaican word for lunch). We went straight to Juici Patti for beef patti(s) and pepsi. Delicious.I thought I would have a hard time eating after spending nearly 30 minutes in the meat/butcher area but I guess I was hungry enough to overcome any disgust.
This afternoon we sat around with Mark and Emily and visited which was really fun. We weren't able to have dinner together (supper) last night due to some surprise tasks that came up at the last minute for them. Their neighbor Dean had spent the last week making charcoal and had just finished bundling it all (nearly 20 bags, each one about 2 ft x 3 ft in size) as night fell. He didn't want to leave it out overnight for fear that someone would steal them. So we went with them in the truck to load it and haul it to his house for safekeeping.Tonight we will probably relax a bit, try to watch LOST online and also work on the letters and other things we have promised to the Infirmary matron. Tomorrow morning we'll head back around 10 am to give her the documents and to say our goodbyes.
Today was really fun and brought a much-needed break from the work at the infirmary and school. Beef bone and all.
Liz & Ryan
3.06.2008
Infirmary Day 4 - March 6, 2008
Today was a rather quick day at the Infirmary because the all ages school was letting out early today and we needed to get some work done on the computers before we were locked out of the lab.
Liz and I spent an hour or so saying hello to some of the residents, and visiting with some of the men with whom we hadn't yet spent much time. Since there are only two of us, and since we're only doing half days, it's been hard to juggle spending time with those we already know well and meeting some of the new residents or spending time with those that are less interactive.
When the Matron arrived to work, Liz went to have a meeting with her, and it seemed to be very productive. Liz is going to work on drafting a public service announcement and a letter to different volunteer organizations and churches in the hope of better connecting the community to the infirmary. The Matron seems happy to have the help, we think, and we're looking forward to moving forward with this step.
While Liz was in the meeting I decided it was time for some balloon animals. The Jamaicans at the Infirmary do seem to love the balloon animals. I think it's a mixture of the bright colors and the giving of a gift that is created right in front of their eyes. I have a book that gives me directions to make about a dozen animals, but I'm a master at the dog. And so today, I think I tied about two dozen dogs with varying neck and torso lengths. Karen helped me in my task, walking around with me, making sure that every woman got one, and then helping to hand out the animals, or putting them in a safe spot for the women who couldn't really hold on to theirs. When we return I'll ply my skill in the men's ward.
We went again to the school this afternoon to troubleshoot some of the lab computers.
We thought we might have to install operating systems on most of the machines, but to our surprise, most of them were ready to go. There are still some problems with some of the keyboards, monitors, and mice, and some of the machines were either damaged in transit or should not have been donated, but overall things there are coming together.
After school we decided to walk the 4-5 kilometers back to the Harmony House. Liz had done the walk before, and we were both eager to be on foot for awhile, since we don't seem to walk anywhere anymore in Indiana. It was really ejoyable to be outside, the colors and scenery so much more vibrant than from behind a windshield. We couldn't walk very far without running into someone we knew, and so we stopped to chat with people along the way.
We even ran into the brother of a Jamaican whom I've known since my first visit to Harmons, and whom I've kept in touch with for several years. My friend moved to St. Maarten about a year ago to take a job as an electrician, and through some phone number mishaps, I haven't talked to him since. But his brother called him up right then, so I got to have a long distance phone chat with him, which as a lot of fun.
Tonight Liz and I have been invited to a traditional Jamaican dinner of fried chicken and rice and peas with the missionary couple who lives at the house. We're looking forward to a night off of tortellini and green beans.
Tomorrow should bring an interesting post as we're headed into town for a day of shopping at the MayPen market. This is no tourist craftmarket, so we're interested to see how it goes!
Ryan & Liz
Today was a rather quick day at the Infirmary because the all ages school was letting out early today and we needed to get some work done on the computers before we were locked out of the lab.
Liz and I spent an hour or so saying hello to some of the residents, and visiting with some of the men with whom we hadn't yet spent much time. Since there are only two of us, and since we're only doing half days, it's been hard to juggle spending time with those we already know well and meeting some of the new residents or spending time with those that are less interactive.
When the Matron arrived to work, Liz went to have a meeting with her, and it seemed to be very productive. Liz is going to work on drafting a public service announcement and a letter to different volunteer organizations and churches in the hope of better connecting the community to the infirmary. The Matron seems happy to have the help, we think, and we're looking forward to moving forward with this step.
While Liz was in the meeting I decided it was time for some balloon animals. The Jamaicans at the Infirmary do seem to love the balloon animals. I think it's a mixture of the bright colors and the giving of a gift that is created right in front of their eyes. I have a book that gives me directions to make about a dozen animals, but I'm a master at the dog. And so today, I think I tied about two dozen dogs with varying neck and torso lengths. Karen helped me in my task, walking around with me, making sure that every woman got one, and then helping to hand out the animals, or putting them in a safe spot for the women who couldn't really hold on to theirs. When we return I'll ply my skill in the men's ward.
We went again to the school this afternoon to troubleshoot some of the lab computers.
We thought we might have to install operating systems on most of the machines, but to our surprise, most of them were ready to go. There are still some problems with some of the keyboards, monitors, and mice, and some of the machines were either damaged in transit or should not have been donated, but overall things there are coming together.After school we decided to walk the 4-5 kilometers back to the Harmony House. Liz had done the walk before, and we were both eager to be on foot for awhile, since we don't seem to walk anywhere anymore in Indiana. It was really ejoyable to be outside, the colors and scenery so much more vibrant than from behind a windshield. We couldn't walk very far without running into someone we knew, and so we stopped to chat with people along the way.
We even ran into the brother of a Jamaican whom I've known since my first visit to Harmons, and whom I've kept in touch with for several years. My friend moved to St. Maarten about a year ago to take a job as an electrician, and through some phone number mishaps, I haven't talked to him since. But his brother called him up right then, so I got to have a long distance phone chat with him, which as a lot of fun.Tonight Liz and I have been invited to a traditional Jamaican dinner of fried chicken and rice and peas with the missionary couple who lives at the house. We're looking forward to a night off of tortellini and green beans.
Tomorrow should bring an interesting post as we're headed into town for a day of shopping at the MayPen market. This is no tourist craftmarket, so we're interested to see how it goes!
Ryan & Liz
3.05.2008
Wednesday - Infirmary Day 3 (Mar 5, 2008)
Our morning started off with 2 frazzling incidents - a malfunctioning coffee maker and Liz's tripping in a dark hallway. Neither of these were enough to keep us home, though the caffeine would have been nice.
Our morning started off with 2 frazzling incidents - a malfunctioning coffee maker and Liz's tripping in a dark hallway. Neither of these were enough to keep us home, though the caffeine would have been nice.
Liz & Peyton at the Infirmary
Our first agenda item was to meet with the Matron, who fortunately came to work even though it was her day off. Those of you who are praying types must have made a personal plea on our behalf - it worked. We presented the needs she had identified over the last 2 days and offered our assistance in outlining orientation classes, establishing standards for professional performance, seeking someone to administer exercise classes for residents/patients, etc. She even brought up the very same idea we came up with over dinner last night and were most keen about implementing. We are now planning to speak with Won by One as an organization to see if we can put these jointly approved plans into practice. And we'll also start figuring out how to fundraise to see this project through for at least 1 year. We figure the total cost would be $3600-$4800 for the year.
So if you're the praying type - keep it up. We will need to get approval to move forward with our idea and just as important, we'll need to find creative ways to raise that money to sustain the project.
Our friend Patricia was feeling very sick today with a sore throat. She is scheduled to have surgery on Monday so we did our best to encourage her (and will continue) to drink fluids and rest. She held onto her new "babeeee" and cuddled it in bed with her.
Since she was feeling so poorly I gathered her and a few other women (Iris, Ina, Karen, and Millie) around and they listed as I read from Matthew. Iris requested that I read chapter 5 but silly me...I said, why don't we just start at the beginning with chapter 1. I had clearly forgotten that Chapter 1 is a genealogy list so I was reading the "and he beget him" stuff for a while.
Karen, Liz, Millie, and Patricia
Karen is doing well - she seems to keep very busy assisting the staff with handing out meals and cleaning up. It is so good to see her being active - she likely has a very long life ahead of her at the infirmary and this activity will keep her physically and mentally stable.
One of the residents who I photographed yesterday afternoon passed away over night. The ambulance came for his body this morning before we arrived. Yesterday when I saw him, I had to watch his chest to see if he was breathing. He was asleep when both Ryan and I were in the room (at separate times) so neither of us woke him to ask how he was doing or to visit. I must admit that I also was reluctant because he was clearly such a shell of a person and I didn't know what a visit might be like. Had he been awake, I might have made an effort, but how can I know for sure if I would have taken the step to overcome my own discomfort?
Death has been a constant reminder of reality for us this week and we find ourselves surprised each day by conversations or events. Nobody else seems as surprised - and then we realized how sheltered we are.
We spent a lot more time visiting with staff today and we can tell that this trip's goal has already been met. We are getting to know them, and they are getting to know us. We can't move forward toward improved care and performance without their assistance. So this is a relief.
I had a moment of sadness today as we passed by Pearl's room. But there is freedom for me without her presence, and an even greater freedom for her. She wouldn't wish to be back at the infirmary nor would I wish her there out of selfish reasons. But still, sadness that our friendship cannot develop further will always remain.
***
At the school we moved computers to the appropriate workstations and connected everything together. Tomorrow we will check to see if these machines actually work.
Long days ahead of us still.
Liz & Ryan
PS I got the lightest sunburn on my face yesterday. The was the first time ever in Jamaica. Hopefully a light glow to my skin won't give anyone at work the impression that I was actually at the beach.
3.04.2008
Tuesday - Infirmary Day 2 (Mar 4, 2008)
Tomorrow we wil be back at the infirmary in the AM to discuss some plans and strategies with the Matron for organizing a new employee training, outlining some staff performance standards, and ways to involve the community/volunteers more effectively. These needs were all identified by her and we hope that she will allow us to help create definitions, processes, and protocols that she can review and refine. If you're the praying type, please pray that this conversation and actual work are not thwarted.
Our second day at the Infirmary held some partially good news - we were mistaken about Ermina. She is still living at the Infirmary but she is much changed. She seems more confused and less expressive. She is unable to fully move on her own - most likely due to the broken hip she had in Febaruary of 2007.
There were several others we looked for today to give them photographs taken during our prior trip, but one of them has passed away (Mr. Barnett). The photo of the other man remains a mystery - nobody seems to recognize him or know his name. There is a chance that he was someone who came for just a few days and then just wandered away. These types of reports worry us, as you might imagine.
We handed out presents from our friend BB (who joined us here in Nov 2006) and these gifts were so appreciated. Here is Daisy Mae showing off her new necklace.
Patricia kept calling her new stuffed animal "my baby" but with her accent it sounded more like "ma babeeeeeeeee." She kept kissing it and proudly showing it off to everyone who would pay attention.
We handed out presents from our friend BB (who joined us here in Nov 2006) and these gifts were so appreciated. Here is Daisy Mae showing off her new necklace.
Patricia kept calling her new stuffed animal "my baby" but with her accent it sounded more like "ma babeeeeeeeee." She kept kissing it and proudly showing it off to everyone who would pay attention.We had hoped that a young nurse here in Harmons might be qualified to serve as the Assistant Matron at the infirmary but she needs higher qualifications/diplomas than she already has. The Head Matron has indicated she will keep her resume on file though. We have other ideas in mind and hope to see them work out to everyone's advantage. To do so would require a significant fundraising initiative on our part. We will keep you posted upon our return.
We met a new woman today whose name is May. She has only been at the infirmary for a few weeks and seems very kind. She sang us a few songs and also asked us to read to her.
Lunch today was chicken foot soup, which nearly turned my stomach. Fortunately we had packed our own lunch (we always do) since this is a very common and seemingly well-liked dish in Jamaica. In the picture below you can see that lunch has just been served. I don't know the name of the man in this photo but hope to learn it tomorrow. He does not speak/communicate well so it means I need to ask around. 
In the background you can see (on the left) that Evarton, or "bird" as people call him, is building a small chicken coop. He's done quite a nice job and as we have seen from past experience he is very handy in surprising ways.
In the background you can see (on the left) that Evarton, or "bird" as people call him, is building a small chicken coop. He's done quite a nice job and as we have seen from past experience he is very handy in surprising ways.Our interactions with staff members has been really positive. The women who work in the laundry area have been especially fun to visit with. There was great confusion until we finally settled the matter that they both share the last name of Reid. They're not relatives though - just coincidentally sharing the same last name. Both have been friendly and open to talking with us about their jobs, which gives us a lot better understanding of the structure and process at the infirmary.
Our time at the school was spent grading 6th grade journal entries for spelling, grammar, and content. Tomorrow we anticipate that we will work in the computer lab. Fingers crossed.
Our friend MFG (from our Nov 2006sent us a care package to be opened each morning before we venture out to "work." Today we opened a fun surprise. These drew a lot of attention and I have been working diligently to teach any and all Jamaicans to say "Boston Red Sox are #1." Surprisingly, at the infirmary we met some family visiting their brother who now resides at the infirmary. The nephew of the resident had lived in NY for 24 years and was proudly wearing a Yankees cap. We gently reminded him which of the two teams are superior. =)
Tomorrow we wil be back at the infirmary in the AM to discuss some plans and strategies with the Matron for organizing a new employee training, outlining some staff performance standards, and ways to involve the community/volunteers more effectively. These needs were all identified by her and we hope that she will allow us to help create definitions, processes, and protocols that she can review and refine. If you're the praying type, please pray that this conversation and actual work are not thwarted.More tomorrow!
Liz & Ryan
PS to be honest, last night was a little lonesome for us. Our pasta was crummy, the canned green beans were tasteless and I think we felt a little discouraged. Tonight has been much better. There always seems to be a 24-hour period upon first arrival when things seem foreign and bleak. We're past that point now!!
PPS I have teeny tiny bumps all over my arms and parts of my hands. I think it may be heat rash (nothing that can't be cured once I get home....just like anything else I might encounter here) but it does itch like you can't imagine. I forgot to pack any creams for this sort of thing since I've never experienced anything like this during our prior trips. It is seriously driving me mad. But I'll survive. Mine is not a serious ailment at all, as I am reminded of each morning when we arrive at the infirmary.
3.03.2008
Monday - Infirmary Day 1 (Mar 3, 2008)
Our first day back at the Infirmary went quite well, perhaps better than we anticipated. There were definitely some surprises and some sad realizations but overall, things were very good.
The Assistant Head Matron received a promotion in the fall and is now the Head Matron at another infirmary in a different parish. It was unfortunate we did not see her, but we are hoping that one of the nurses who lives in the village where we stay, might be a good fit for this job. We will be checking with the Head Matron tomorrow and bringing a resume along with us. This would be a great opportunity (if all works out) for all 3 parties - our friend the nurse, the Infirmary, and us too since it would help us maintain better contact with the Infirmary.
The sad realizations were the number of faces we had hoped to see but did not. Mr. Jackson has passed away, and it seems that Ermina has too. Another woman, Myrtle, also passed away. Thanks to her our November 2006 team will always have fond memorites. Myrtle gave us a good laugh on our first trip. Myrtle was nearly blind and when her picture was taken using a flash, she clapped her hands and shouted "halleluja! I can see!"
We were sad to realize that these faces were no longer a part of the friends we hoped to visit with. There are many new faces now and this was nice, but reminded us that there is a sense of loss we will likely experience each time we visit the infirmary.
We had a very good conversation with the matron about implementing some changes and it seems like a new door has opened in our relationship with her. This door opened in the most unexpected way, but I guess that is how some doors open at times. We'll take it.
We also learned that our friend Gary plans to move out of the infirmary in October. His sister (Gary is one of 10 siblings) has moved from the Caymans back to Jamaica with her 2 children and will be taking Gary in to live with her. We are so thankful that he will be more settled with his family and hopefully able to take advantage of services and opportunities that he doesn't have at the infirmary.
After our morning at the infirmary we stopped at the primary school to meet the new Principal and to see if they could use 2 sets of hands in the afternoons this week. The new principal was very warm and inviting and it sounds like she wants us to focus on reading with students. I am hopeful this is the start of a new season at the school.
We spent some time with Emily who is now employed (along with her husband) and lives here at the Harmony House. We have really enjoyed meeting them for the first time after the many missed opportunities to connect in the past. Emily was very close to our friend Pearl and we both share that loss with heavy hearts.
Our one remaining hurdle is trying to gain access to our gmail accounts. We can get online and do various things, but for some reason we cannot open any gmail messages! So don't be offended if you have sent a message and don't hear from us for a while.
Our apologies for not having photos to show you more, but we are struggling to get them posted with the internet connection. We'll keep trying, so check back soon!
Liz & Ryan
Our first day back at the Infirmary went quite well, perhaps better than we anticipated. There were definitely some surprises and some sad realizations but overall, things were very good.
The Assistant Head Matron received a promotion in the fall and is now the Head Matron at another infirmary in a different parish. It was unfortunate we did not see her, but we are hoping that one of the nurses who lives in the village where we stay, might be a good fit for this job. We will be checking with the Head Matron tomorrow and bringing a resume along with us. This would be a great opportunity (if all works out) for all 3 parties - our friend the nurse, the Infirmary, and us too since it would help us maintain better contact with the Infirmary.
The sad realizations were the number of faces we had hoped to see but did not. Mr. Jackson has passed away, and it seems that Ermina has too. Another woman, Myrtle, also passed away. Thanks to her our November 2006 team will always have fond memorites. Myrtle gave us a good laugh on our first trip. Myrtle was nearly blind and when her picture was taken using a flash, she clapped her hands and shouted "halleluja! I can see!"
We were sad to realize that these faces were no longer a part of the friends we hoped to visit with. There are many new faces now and this was nice, but reminded us that there is a sense of loss we will likely experience each time we visit the infirmary.
We had a very good conversation with the matron about implementing some changes and it seems like a new door has opened in our relationship with her. This door opened in the most unexpected way, but I guess that is how some doors open at times. We'll take it.
We also learned that our friend Gary plans to move out of the infirmary in October. His sister (Gary is one of 10 siblings) has moved from the Caymans back to Jamaica with her 2 children and will be taking Gary in to live with her. We are so thankful that he will be more settled with his family and hopefully able to take advantage of services and opportunities that he doesn't have at the infirmary.
After our morning at the infirmary we stopped at the primary school to meet the new Principal and to see if they could use 2 sets of hands in the afternoons this week. The new principal was very warm and inviting and it sounds like she wants us to focus on reading with students. I am hopeful this is the start of a new season at the school.
We spent some time with Emily who is now employed (along with her husband) and lives here at the Harmony House. We have really enjoyed meeting them for the first time after the many missed opportunities to connect in the past. Emily was very close to our friend Pearl and we both share that loss with heavy hearts.
Our one remaining hurdle is trying to gain access to our gmail accounts. We can get online and do various things, but for some reason we cannot open any gmail messages! So don't be offended if you have sent a message and don't hear from us for a while.
Our apologies for not having photos to show you more, but we are struggling to get them posted with the internet connection. We'll keep trying, so check back soon!
Liz & Ryan
3.02.2008
Arrival in Jamaica (Sunday - March 2, 2008)
We are back in Jamaica and the beauty of this country never ceases to amaze me.
Our flight left South Bend very early this morning. And thanks to the kindness of our friend E.V. who picked us up at 4:30 AM and treated us to a pleasant ride to the airport. Way before dawn.
We flew to Chicago where we waited for 3 hours to board our flight. After successfully boarding and getting an entire row to ourselves, we sat on the tarmac for over an hour waiting for the food and beverage service carts to be loaded onto the plane. After a very long day (about 10 hours total) we arrived in Montego Bay. The process of entering Jamaica is always amusing to me. Long lines of tourists who are eagerly awaiting the stamp in their passport. The customs agents always look at us a little funny when we answer their questions.
***
"What is the purpose of your visit?"
"We're volunteers. We'll be volunteering at the Clarendon Infirmary."
[Agent's eyebrow is raised. Perplexity expressed on his/her face. Who would go to the infirmary on their vacation?]
"Where are you staying?"
"We will be staying in Harmons, at the Harmony House in Manchester Parish"
[Facial confusion ensues. Harmons? They have never heard of Harmons. And it doesn't seem to be near the beach.]
"Is that a resort or hotel?"
"Um, no, it's more like a, uh, guest house. Yes it is a guest house."
[Silently the agent stamps our books, still a little befuddled. We get motioned to pass through the turnstile to pick up our luggage.]
***
I'm sure we're an oddity in the midst of the tourons (thank you MFG for that wonderful term) who can't wait to get to the beach and pina colada number 1, 2, or 3. I always wonder if the agents think we're lying to them, but then I figure there is no to use the "Infirmary volunteer" as a cover for anything so maybe they do believe us.
Our friend Don was waiting for us at the airport and kindly stopped along the 4 hour drive so we could pick up some food at the market.
Jamaican grocery stores remind me of what shopping in the 50s, 60s, or 70s must have been like. Small, intimate, a hodge-podge of boxed items and produce available. Other than allowing patrons to use debit cards, I think a lot of things must be the same. When I get home I'll ask my parents what they think.
We arrived in Harmons around 6:30 PM and finally met Mark and Emily who are an American couple living in Harmons full-time. Emily was good friends with our friend Pearl (who passed away in August) but we have never met nor officially corresponded until today.
We are ready for bed (to say the least) and looking forward to our first day at the Infirmary tomorrow. We know already that it is the head Matron's birthday so we have a little gift to convey our appreciation of her.
We hope to post again tomorrow with some photos but we are awaiting the password to get online with our own laptop.
More as soon as we can!
Liz & Ryan
We are back in Jamaica and the beauty of this country never ceases to amaze me.
Our flight left South Bend very early this morning. And thanks to the kindness of our friend E.V. who picked us up at 4:30 AM and treated us to a pleasant ride to the airport. Way before dawn.
We flew to Chicago where we waited for 3 hours to board our flight. After successfully boarding and getting an entire row to ourselves, we sat on the tarmac for over an hour waiting for the food and beverage service carts to be loaded onto the plane. After a very long day (about 10 hours total) we arrived in Montego Bay. The process of entering Jamaica is always amusing to me. Long lines of tourists who are eagerly awaiting the stamp in their passport. The customs agents always look at us a little funny when we answer their questions.
***
"What is the purpose of your visit?"
"We're volunteers. We'll be volunteering at the Clarendon Infirmary."
[Agent's eyebrow is raised. Perplexity expressed on his/her face. Who would go to the infirmary on their vacation?]
"Where are you staying?"
"We will be staying in Harmons, at the Harmony House in Manchester Parish"
[Facial confusion ensues. Harmons? They have never heard of Harmons. And it doesn't seem to be near the beach.]
"Is that a resort or hotel?"
"Um, no, it's more like a, uh, guest house. Yes it is a guest house."
[Silently the agent stamps our books, still a little befuddled. We get motioned to pass through the turnstile to pick up our luggage.]
***
I'm sure we're an oddity in the midst of the tourons (thank you MFG for that wonderful term) who can't wait to get to the beach and pina colada number 1, 2, or 3. I always wonder if the agents think we're lying to them, but then I figure there is no to use the "Infirmary volunteer" as a cover for anything so maybe they do believe us.
Our friend Don was waiting for us at the airport and kindly stopped along the 4 hour drive so we could pick up some food at the market.
Jamaican grocery stores remind me of what shopping in the 50s, 60s, or 70s must have been like. Small, intimate, a hodge-podge of boxed items and produce available. Other than allowing patrons to use debit cards, I think a lot of things must be the same. When I get home I'll ask my parents what they think.
We arrived in Harmons around 6:30 PM and finally met Mark and Emily who are an American couple living in Harmons full-time. Emily was good friends with our friend Pearl (who passed away in August) but we have never met nor officially corresponded until today.
We are ready for bed (to say the least) and looking forward to our first day at the Infirmary tomorrow. We know already that it is the head Matron's birthday so we have a little gift to convey our appreciation of her.
We hope to post again tomorrow with some photos but we are awaiting the password to get online with our own laptop.
More as soon as we can!
Liz & Ryan
2.26.2008
We're headed to Jamaica again very soon, and with the continuing cold weather and almost daily snow, the warm temperatures are welcomed.
This March 2008 trip to Jamaica will be different from the others, and we find it amusing that I (Liz) have said almost that exact same phrase at the start of every trip. There are two major changes which make this trip significantly different from those of the past.
1) We won't be leading a team of volunteers at the Infirmary each day. In the past we have always had 4-6, sometimes even 8 other Infirmary volunteers with us. These volunteers ranged from medical professionals, students, non-profit gurus, to the manager of an acoustic folk duo.
And while it will seem a little strange that we won't have lunch with our handful of friends each day (when we commiserate, cry, or laugh.) I'm hopeful that my belief that there is always something new to learn in the quiet ways of life will prove true. This will be a "quiet" week at the Infirmary on many levels, but I hold onto the hope that this will pay out in the end.
2) Our work at the Infirmary will also feel quiet because our dear friend Pearl, who had lived at the Infirmary for the last 12 years, passed away in early August 2007. During each of our visits we treasured spending time with her, visiting with her about her life, her concerns, and hearing about how she reached out to support others at the Infirmary. We anticipate a gaping hole in our hearts as the reality of her death sets in during our visit. (Especially me - Liz.)
So what exactly are we going to do without a slew of Infirmary volunteers? We plan to spend our time conducting an informal "needs assessment" on behalf of the Infirmary staff. Our general goal is to carefully plan each successive step of this adventure of serving the Infirmary, to ensure that our service is truly beneficial to the Infirmary as a whole, and that each new implementation is sustainable into the future.
We don't want momentum to build up only to dwindle off after a few years' time and have begun to examine the ways in which we can better maintain consistent communication and relationships with those at the Infirmary when we are back home in the U.S.
In prior visits we raised funds (thanks to all of you!) to purchase a new commercial stove for the Infirmary.
The one they had been using for the last 35+ years had finally quit and they were left with only stovetop cooking until the new appliance arrived.In March 2007 more funds were raised to purchase replacement washing machines and hope to see that these are still working well given the amount of laundry that must be cleaned each day.
Part of the laundering process they undertake each day involves
1) soaking clothing in bleach water
2) transferring the clothing into a pot of boiling water for further sterilization
3) wet laundry gathering in piles waiting to be transferred to the one washing machine that worked.
(Dirty laundry is in the large pile on the left)We hope that the addition of 2 new washing machines (resulting in 3 machines at the infirmary total) purchased in March 2007 with your funds will have sped up this laundering process. With roughly 136 residents at any given time, more washing machines would be very useful. But we also know from our last visit that the boiler which heats water for the Infirmary is in need of significant repair. Future project perhaps?
During the last visit (Mar 2007) our volunteer medical staff offered a class to Infirmary employees on common medical conditions (heart disease, diabetes, etc) and we discovered that while this type of professional information is helpful, there are other avenues where needs are still unmet. We want to understand these needs, document them, and look for ways to help staff and the surrounding community meet these needs. Hence, a needs assessment is the next step to better understand the organization as a whole.
In addition to spending time at the Infirmary, we will also spend time at a local school where I volunteered last year. The computer lab at the school is anticipated to open on March 10th so we hope to be of service to the staff in making this a reality.
And perhaps the largest difference anticipate during this trip is the flexibility to relax, enjoy visiting with our Jamaican friends, and spending time together. While our previous trips have been truly rewarding, they have also been very tiring! As always, a lot of preparation beforehand is needed, and even more coordination on the ground has made our volunteering possible. This time we're satisfied to look out for just the two of us!
If there were a beach nearby and possibly someone to make me a daiquiri at the end of each day, it might almost pass for vacation. Okay, so that's definitely stretching it, but we are excited for a slower pace of service this time.
We'll post new updates to this blog as often as possible and we thank you in advance for your prayers, encouragement and support for our work in Jamaica!
"Tonks Mon!"
Liz & Ryan
*********
A few photos from prior trips.
Photos from the Infirmary:
Our friend Peter, coloring with some supplies donated by supporters (like you!) for use during recreational activities.
Liz & our friend Patricia who lives at the Infirmary.
One of our medical volunteers, Elaine, works with a staff member to clean a pressure ulcer and change a bandage.
Friends, old and new.
Photos from the School:
A student at the school creates a document using a laptop I was lent to use in my time at the up and coming computer lab.
Students begging to get into the computer lab.
A few photos from prior trips.
Photos from the Infirmary:
Our friend Peter, coloring with some supplies donated by supporters (like you!) for use during recreational activities.
Liz & our friend Patricia who lives at the Infirmary.
One of our medical volunteers, Elaine, works with a staff member to clean a pressure ulcer and change a bandage.
Friends, old and new.Photos from the School:
A student at the school creates a document using a laptop I was lent to use in my time at the up and coming computer lab.
Students begging to get into the computer lab.1.14.2008
Re-posted. Original publish date: April 11, 2007
I got a comment after the last blog post about one of my stylish shirts I was wearing in my photo with Winsome. It came from a friend who knows how much I disliked the shirt I was wearing so it was all in good fun. But this made me think that I might want to point out that the stylish and fashionable ensembles I wear in Jamaica are tailored to the local trends rather than those we are familiar with here in the States.
Back in February I visited my sister and we went to Goodwill one afternoon to see what conservative, durable, comfortable, and colorful (or if you are spelling it in a Jamaican school: colourful) clothing I could find for a good price. The key here was cheap and conservative if truth be told.
Goodwill happens to have sales on particular days so I was on the hunt for clothes with a red tag (the were only $1.00) and I found a number of items that would help me look both professional at the school as well as meeting my CDCC (conservative, durable, comfortable, colorful) requirements.
One note before the fashion show begins. You will notice in almost any photo take of me in Jamaica, I am wearing some sort of headband or fabric to pull my hair back. This is *not* how I wear my hair on a daily basis, unless I am in Jamaica.
My natural curl is stubborn and insistent that it do wild things when I reach the tropical climates and having a shorter hairstyle guarantees that I will either look like Kramer, Lucille Ball, or Little Orphan Annie. None of which are all that pretty. Then again, my attempts to control my hair through the restraint of a headband isn't pretty either. But I do try.
So, fashionistas, fashion police, and those of you who think you have some style....here it is. My Jamaican fashion show along with commentary. (Note that these photos were taken here in the U.S. for the express purpose of showing the awesome outfits I donned. These photos were not take "on location.")
The Teacher Dress
I have to admit that I really like this dress and would actually wear it in my everyday life. I just need to find the right shoes to go with it. My driver to school said "You look very nice today. Just like a real teacher." Encouraging words from a man of fashion about town.
The Orange Blossom
When I saw this shirt at Goodwill, I knew the color would be a perfect jolt within the Jamaican color palette, but I didn't realize how nicely it would fit me. Another item I may wear here in the U.S. This shirt has a built-in safety feature which may not be obvious to the Jamaican-traveling novice. It is perfect for "being noticed" on the road, thereby avoiding being hit by a car.
The Rural Teacher Shirt
This red linen shirt was clearly a more Americanized selection and it reminds me of some of the teachers I have worked with who are from rural areas (here in the U.S.) that seem to select a softer, muted color palette. This is actually the shirt I chose to wear on my plane ride home so as to better blend with the home country after getting off the plane.
The Rural teacher shirt has one accessory which I didn't notice during my travels. The "pricing" tag that came with it at the Goodwill store.
The Rural Teacher skirt is featured here with the Urban Trotter Skirt, a skirt which I personally embellished.
The Urban Trotter Skirt features a zig-zag stitching pattern in hyacinth thread providing a unique design and practical mend to unfortunate splits on some seams.
The Kool-Aid Shirt with Black Broomstick Skirt
The Kool-Aid shirt was what prompted the comment on the prior post. It was by far, the favorite of the Jamaican fashion writers and I believe it may be again due to the vibrant colors. While it does not have any slenderizing qualities, it does indeed turn heads in both the Jamaican and American cultures. The broomstick skirt made of linen is the perfect length for just about everything *but* playing hacky-sack.
The Ego Pants
The Ego Pants are a flexible (both literally and figuratively) capri with an elastic waist. While the exact origin for the name of these lightweight pants is not clear, speculators agree on two possible theories:
1) The elastic waist allows deflated egos to grow when you try on a smaller size and the pants actually fit.
OR
2) You cannot have much of an ego if you wear these pants in public. Especially in the rain as they do become completely transparent when they are wet.
I'm betting that #2 is the correct origin for the name of these pants.
This concludes the fashion show, as well as my ability to walk in public with any sense of dignity.
I got a comment after the last blog post about one of my stylish shirts I was wearing in my photo with Winsome. It came from a friend who knows how much I disliked the shirt I was wearing so it was all in good fun. But this made me think that I might want to point out that the stylish and fashionable ensembles I wear in Jamaica are tailored to the local trends rather than those we are familiar with here in the States.
Back in February I visited my sister and we went to Goodwill one afternoon to see what conservative, durable, comfortable, and colorful (or if you are spelling it in a Jamaican school: colourful) clothing I could find for a good price. The key here was cheap and conservative if truth be told.
Goodwill happens to have sales on particular days so I was on the hunt for clothes with a red tag (the were only $1.00) and I found a number of items that would help me look both professional at the school as well as meeting my CDCC (conservative, durable, comfortable, colorful) requirements.
One note before the fashion show begins. You will notice in almost any photo take of me in Jamaica, I am wearing some sort of headband or fabric to pull my hair back. This is *not* how I wear my hair on a daily basis, unless I am in Jamaica.
My natural curl is stubborn and insistent that it do wild things when I reach the tropical climates and having a shorter hairstyle guarantees that I will either look like Kramer, Lucille Ball, or Little Orphan Annie. None of which are all that pretty. Then again, my attempts to control my hair through the restraint of a headband isn't pretty either. But I do try.
So, fashionistas, fashion police, and those of you who think you have some style....here it is. My Jamaican fashion show along with commentary. (Note that these photos were taken here in the U.S. for the express purpose of showing the awesome outfits I donned. These photos were not take "on location.")
The Teacher Dress
I have to admit that I really like this dress and would actually wear it in my everyday life. I just need to find the right shoes to go with it. My driver to school said "You look very nice today. Just like a real teacher." Encouraging words from a man of fashion about town.
The Orange Blossom
When I saw this shirt at Goodwill, I knew the color would be a perfect jolt within the Jamaican color palette, but I didn't realize how nicely it would fit me. Another item I may wear here in the U.S. This shirt has a built-in safety feature which may not be obvious to the Jamaican-traveling novice. It is perfect for "being noticed" on the road, thereby avoiding being hit by a car.
The Rural Teacher Shirt
This red linen shirt was clearly a more Americanized selection and it reminds me of some of the teachers I have worked with who are from rural areas (here in the U.S.) that seem to select a softer, muted color palette. This is actually the shirt I chose to wear on my plane ride home so as to better blend with the home country after getting off the plane.
The Rural teacher shirt has one accessory which I didn't notice during my travels. The "pricing" tag that came with it at the Goodwill store.
The Rural Teacher skirt is featured here with the Urban Trotter Skirt, a skirt which I personally embellished.
The Urban Trotter Skirt features a zig-zag stitching pattern in hyacinth thread providing a unique design and practical mend to unfortunate splits on some seams.The Kool-Aid Shirt with Black Broomstick Skirt
The Kool-Aid shirt was what prompted the comment on the prior post. It was by far, the favorite of the Jamaican fashion writers and I believe it may be again due to the vibrant colors. While it does not have any slenderizing qualities, it does indeed turn heads in both the Jamaican and American cultures. The broomstick skirt made of linen is the perfect length for just about everything *but* playing hacky-sack.The Ego Pants
The Ego Pants are a flexible (both literally and figuratively) capri with an elastic waist. While the exact origin for the name of these lightweight pants is not clear, speculators agree on two possible theories:
1) The elastic waist allows deflated egos to grow when you try on a smaller size and the pants actually fit.
OR
2) You cannot have much of an ego if you wear these pants in public. Especially in the rain as they do become completely transparent when they are wet.
I'm betting that #2 is the correct origin for the name of these pants.
This concludes the fashion show, as well as my ability to walk in public with any sense of dignity.
Re-posted. Original Publish Date: April 3, 2007
I have returned from Jamaica - but was unable to post this before I left Jamaica. I am so happy to be home again! Enjoy reading.
=====
It has been a long 2 weeks in Jamaica for me - I've spent time at the local school and 5 days at the Infirmary.
I can't say that I am sad to be leaving Jamaica this time, certainly not as sad as I was back in November. Some of my earlier posts have reflected my frustration and I would say that much of the time here I have been fighting frustration and also fighting myself in ways.
At the end of our time at the infirmary I realized that all the things I had seen and the stories I had heard, had changed my perspective about the residents, staff, and management at the infirmary. And I must admit that at this point I really need a break from thinking about any of them.
In many ways, the truth about my love for those people and the infirmary as a place has been put to the test. I know that in all relationships the feelings can "fade" and one true test is the passage of time. Will I choose to continue loving or will I succumb to my disappointment in others?
I suppose that I have succumbed to disappointment momentarily but I know that what I believe stands firm - those at the infirmary (staff and residents alike) are humans who deserve love and to know a life of peace and grace. For the time being I am part of a larger group who extends love, peace and grace to those who work and live at the infirmary.
I realized by last Friday that the infirmary was a puzzle to me. The staff have a series of puzzle pieces, the leadership has some puzzle pieces, and the residents have many puzzles pieces that all fit together in some shape that I can't quite make out. In fact, I wonder if they all have pieces to the same puzzle at times.
All the pieces must fit together, it's just difficult to see what the puzzle, once assembled, is showing me. I don't know yet and I think it will take some time before I do. It seems like I can see some of the picture, but I'm not yet confident that the view I have is correct.
After leaving the infirmary and saying goodbye to our team on Sunday, I have been spending my nights at the home of Winsome Rose, a lovely woman who is heavily involved in the Won by One ministry and serves on their board of directors.
Every night I have grown to enjoy her company more and more. Around me, she is quiet for the most part and she graciously puts up with my many questions.
"What foods do Jamaicans dislike that Americans love?"
black olives
"What do you call Junebugs?"
guungu bugs
"Who are your friends in Harmons?"
none - she has many many cousins and extended family here, so she doesn't really have friends in Harmons, just family.
"When was your first trip to the States?"
2004 (which was also when she took her first plane ride)
(This was as far as I got in my post before I flew home...but I have finished the post below)
=========
Before I departed, Winsome gave me a big hug and told me to call her when I got home. I called her and she said how much she had missed me the previous night. It seems she must have missed sitting on the veranda with me and my endless questions. I think that I can safely say that Winsome is my friend and she will continue to be. At last a puzzle that seems easy to piece together.
I have returned from Jamaica - but was unable to post this before I left Jamaica. I am so happy to be home again! Enjoy reading.
=====
It has been a long 2 weeks in Jamaica for me - I've spent time at the local school and 5 days at the Infirmary.
I can't say that I am sad to be leaving Jamaica this time, certainly not as sad as I was back in November. Some of my earlier posts have reflected my frustration and I would say that much of the time here I have been fighting frustration and also fighting myself in ways.
At the end of our time at the infirmary I realized that all the things I had seen and the stories I had heard, had changed my perspective about the residents, staff, and management at the infirmary. And I must admit that at this point I really need a break from thinking about any of them.
In many ways, the truth about my love for those people and the infirmary as a place has been put to the test. I know that in all relationships the feelings can "fade" and one true test is the passage of time. Will I choose to continue loving or will I succumb to my disappointment in others?
I suppose that I have succumbed to disappointment momentarily but I know that what I believe stands firm - those at the infirmary (staff and residents alike) are humans who deserve love and to know a life of peace and grace. For the time being I am part of a larger group who extends love, peace and grace to those who work and live at the infirmary.
I realized by last Friday that the infirmary was a puzzle to me. The staff have a series of puzzle pieces, the leadership has some puzzle pieces, and the residents have many puzzles pieces that all fit together in some shape that I can't quite make out. In fact, I wonder if they all have pieces to the same puzzle at times.
All the pieces must fit together, it's just difficult to see what the puzzle, once assembled, is showing me. I don't know yet and I think it will take some time before I do. It seems like I can see some of the picture, but I'm not yet confident that the view I have is correct.
After leaving the infirmary and saying goodbye to our team on Sunday, I have been spending my nights at the home of Winsome Rose, a lovely woman who is heavily involved in the Won by One ministry and serves on their board of directors.
Every night I have grown to enjoy her company more and more. Around me, she is quiet for the most part and she graciously puts up with my many questions.
"What foods do Jamaicans dislike that Americans love?"
black olives
"What do you call Junebugs?"
guungu bugs
"Who are your friends in Harmons?"
none - she has many many cousins and extended family here, so she doesn't really have friends in Harmons, just family.
"When was your first trip to the States?"
2004 (which was also when she took her first plane ride)
(This was as far as I got in my post before I flew home...but I have finished the post below)
=========
Before I departed, Winsome gave me a big hug and told me to call her when I got home. I called her and she said how much she had missed me the previous night. It seems she must have missed sitting on the veranda with me and my endless questions. I think that I can safely say that Winsome is my friend and she will continue to be. At last a puzzle that seems easy to piece together.
Re-posted. Original Publish date: March 28, 2007
Since my (Elizabeth) first trip in 2004 Ryan and I have been trying to find ways to return to Jamaica. The first return was in November (2006) and now we are here again. We have been quite literally planning for these days and nights for 2 1/2 years and more specifically we have been planning to serve at the infirmary during week-long trips for the last year. It has been a good but also tiring process.
We've just completed 3 days at the infirmary and it has been an interesting experience, especially compared to our last trip. I think this is in part because the dynamics of our prior group were vastly different from the current group.
We are again 5 professionals with varied skills (but all sharing passionate hearts) except that this time we have included 5 students with every day-long visit. It is interesting to see how the different college students respond to their time at the infirmary. Some are immediately captivated and express a sense of "calling" to be there. One particular student came to the infirmary yesterday (Tuesday) and was blazing with a sense of injustice that others would live in such dire conditions.
He decided to work on house building today with the rest of the college student teams, but when the full Won by One student team came to visit the infirmary today for about 90 minutes, he immediately approached me as I worked on crafts with some of the women. He was beaming, so I asked him how the housebuilding had gone.
He shared that it had been fun, but he "knew where he belonged" and it was clear at that moment that he would be spending the remainder of his trip with us at the infirmary. It is encouraging and inspiring to see such ferocity and compassion in someone at the same time.
Personally, I have been struggling on this trip - realizing more about my selfish nature and realizing that a part of me wants to be needed by those at the infirmary. The moments where I saw Silvia walk on her own (using a newly donated walker) brought me to tears and it was in that same moment that I realized she would no longer use her "death grip" to cling to any of us in order to move around.
It was a scene of freedom for Silvia which made me feel elated. And yet at the same time a very dark part of my heart became afraid that this was could be one of the many first steps toward not being needed by these new friends. It was a feeling of devastation within my heart, and also a feeling of shame that I would somehow want people to be limited so that I could serve them. Could this really be a part of my heart?
It wasn't until this morning that I was reminded that friendship holds times of joy and sorrow, gain and loss. In friendship, you need a friend who can relate in a reciprocal way, not a donor who can network or fundraise on your behalf. So my friends at the infirmary still need me - simply because we are friends, and people need people. They may need some of the money and supplies I can get donated, but more importantly they need an advocate, a friend, someone to hold their hand in joy and in sadness. The joy of reuniting and the sadness of parting, which will happen very soon. Too soon.
I think my expectations for this trip have not matched reality - I anticipated that I would feel deeply moved during my time here as I have in the past - in a very positive way. And yet I have found myself frustrated much of the time. Stymied in some way which I find difficult to articulate.
I suppose a classic example of feeling at a loss or socially bewildered has just happened to me. Needing a break from the group and a moment to myself to simply reflect, I have took to our bedroom to write this blog post. All of the team and a ton of our Jamaican friends are out in the "courtyard" watching a movie on the big screen that Won by One has set up, using a digital projector to play the movie. It is a rare treat for the Jamaicans to see a movie on the big screen so the night has drawn a big crowd.
Just moments ago I needed to run out to say hello to our Won by One driver and give him a gift I had brought with me for his help in taking me to the airport next week. I peered into the courtyard after we spoke and saw an older woman who I had met back in 2004. She was difficult to talk to then - a woman of few words, and those few words were often tinted with a bit of bluntness which I always find hard to deal with.
As I peered into the courtyard she saw me from the aisle and waved at me to come over, looking excited. The person sitting next to her had just gotten up and left the empty popcorn bowl in the seat next to her, and from the way she motioned as well as what I *thought* she said, I went around to sit in the newly vacated seat. I was a little too quick to take this greeting as a gesture for me to join her, even though we had sat next to one another during the movie we watched during our November trip.
As I bent down to sit on the bench next to her, she raised the popcorn bowl and said - "get more popcorn." So I took the bowl, shaking my head in disbelief and allowed someone else to take it back out the crowd. I'm a little spent emotionally it seems (AND I didn't sleep well last night) so I decided that was enough for one night and returned to the computer and empty bedroom.
Sometimes we don't get to be everybody's friend, just their popcorn-getter. To everything there is a season. I guess I will just ride through this season and look forward to the next.
We still have 2 days left at the infirmary and I think that things will slow down a bit for me tomorrow and Friday. Tomorrow I plan to relax a bit more, enjoy making cards with my friends, visit with Pearl, and relax in the sense of light, freedom, and proximity to Christ that I feel when I am at the infirmary. It seems paradoxical but it is what I now experience when I am there, among my friends.
Here are some photos from the trip:
New artwork Evelyn created with markers and paper we left with her in November 2006.
Crafts made by Infirmary residents using the art supplies we brought with us.
(Photo frames, greeting cards, crosses)
Since my (Elizabeth) first trip in 2004 Ryan and I have been trying to find ways to return to Jamaica. The first return was in November (2006) and now we are here again. We have been quite literally planning for these days and nights for 2 1/2 years and more specifically we have been planning to serve at the infirmary during week-long trips for the last year. It has been a good but also tiring process.
We've just completed 3 days at the infirmary and it has been an interesting experience, especially compared to our last trip. I think this is in part because the dynamics of our prior group were vastly different from the current group.
We are again 5 professionals with varied skills (but all sharing passionate hearts) except that this time we have included 5 students with every day-long visit. It is interesting to see how the different college students respond to their time at the infirmary. Some are immediately captivated and express a sense of "calling" to be there. One particular student came to the infirmary yesterday (Tuesday) and was blazing with a sense of injustice that others would live in such dire conditions.
He decided to work on house building today with the rest of the college student teams, but when the full Won by One student team came to visit the infirmary today for about 90 minutes, he immediately approached me as I worked on crafts with some of the women. He was beaming, so I asked him how the housebuilding had gone.
He shared that it had been fun, but he "knew where he belonged" and it was clear at that moment that he would be spending the remainder of his trip with us at the infirmary. It is encouraging and inspiring to see such ferocity and compassion in someone at the same time.
Personally, I have been struggling on this trip - realizing more about my selfish nature and realizing that a part of me wants to be needed by those at the infirmary. The moments where I saw Silvia walk on her own (using a newly donated walker) brought me to tears and it was in that same moment that I realized she would no longer use her "death grip" to cling to any of us in order to move around.
It was a scene of freedom for Silvia which made me feel elated. And yet at the same time a very dark part of my heart became afraid that this was could be one of the many first steps toward not being needed by these new friends. It was a feeling of devastation within my heart, and also a feeling of shame that I would somehow want people to be limited so that I could serve them. Could this really be a part of my heart?
It wasn't until this morning that I was reminded that friendship holds times of joy and sorrow, gain and loss. In friendship, you need a friend who can relate in a reciprocal way, not a donor who can network or fundraise on your behalf. So my friends at the infirmary still need me - simply because we are friends, and people need people. They may need some of the money and supplies I can get donated, but more importantly they need an advocate, a friend, someone to hold their hand in joy and in sadness. The joy of reuniting and the sadness of parting, which will happen very soon. Too soon.
I think my expectations for this trip have not matched reality - I anticipated that I would feel deeply moved during my time here as I have in the past - in a very positive way. And yet I have found myself frustrated much of the time. Stymied in some way which I find difficult to articulate.
I suppose a classic example of feeling at a loss or socially bewildered has just happened to me. Needing a break from the group and a moment to myself to simply reflect, I have took to our bedroom to write this blog post. All of the team and a ton of our Jamaican friends are out in the "courtyard" watching a movie on the big screen that Won by One has set up, using a digital projector to play the movie. It is a rare treat for the Jamaicans to see a movie on the big screen so the night has drawn a big crowd.
Just moments ago I needed to run out to say hello to our Won by One driver and give him a gift I had brought with me for his help in taking me to the airport next week. I peered into the courtyard after we spoke and saw an older woman who I had met back in 2004. She was difficult to talk to then - a woman of few words, and those few words were often tinted with a bit of bluntness which I always find hard to deal with.
As I peered into the courtyard she saw me from the aisle and waved at me to come over, looking excited. The person sitting next to her had just gotten up and left the empty popcorn bowl in the seat next to her, and from the way she motioned as well as what I *thought* she said, I went around to sit in the newly vacated seat. I was a little too quick to take this greeting as a gesture for me to join her, even though we had sat next to one another during the movie we watched during our November trip.
As I bent down to sit on the bench next to her, she raised the popcorn bowl and said - "get more popcorn." So I took the bowl, shaking my head in disbelief and allowed someone else to take it back out the crowd. I'm a little spent emotionally it seems (AND I didn't sleep well last night) so I decided that was enough for one night and returned to the computer and empty bedroom.
Sometimes we don't get to be everybody's friend, just their popcorn-getter. To everything there is a season. I guess I will just ride through this season and look forward to the next.
We still have 2 days left at the infirmary and I think that things will slow down a bit for me tomorrow and Friday. Tomorrow I plan to relax a bit more, enjoy making cards with my friends, visit with Pearl, and relax in the sense of light, freedom, and proximity to Christ that I feel when I am at the infirmary. It seems paradoxical but it is what I now experience when I am there, among my friends.
Here are some photos from the trip:
New artwork Evelyn created with markers and paper we left with her in November 2006.
Crafts made by Infirmary residents using the art supplies we brought with us.
(Photo frames, greeting cards, crosses)
Re-posted. Original publish date: March 24, 2007
We survived Friday at the school, and in fact things went quite well. I have realized that I may be better at working with kids than with adults. At least I enjoy it more. Maybe it has something to do with my "control issues." Don't worry, I know you were thinking it as well.
We got to the school around 9:00 and of course school was supposed to have started at 8:30 but hadn't begun yet. The teachers weren't in their classrooms and of course the students weren't either. It was a bit hectic really. Who says that school uniforms are the key to uniformity?
The particular teacher who had been rather rude on Thursday was less so on Friday, although she gave me a nickname with an attitude in her voice which seemed to imply that the nickname wasn't friendly. I'm now called "Betty." I will try to accept my new name with grace, and as my Mother would probably say, "It's better than being called Liz." So at least one person is probably happy with the new name - please enjoy this moment Mom.
Around the time of the lunch break (10:30 to 12:30) my stubborn teacher came to see the software we'd brought in and spent the morning cataloguing. She was thrilled to be using one of the laptops and we even caught her singing along to one of the songs in the particular program. Eventually students began to wander in and gather around the teachers sitting at the laptops - it was fascinating.
They were so intrigued! I think the most dismaying part was that the teachers didn't encourage the students to try the computers, in fact they said nothing to the students and ignored them completely. It raised my fears that the lab will be a teacher's toy and haven, rather than a place of student & teacher engagement.
After the teachers left I kept a few students behind to work with them on the computers on the basic things like "this is the mouse...it lets you move around in the computer. You can use your fingers to click the mouse and tell the computer what you want to do"
During this more private student time there was a continual stream of students peeking in the windows from across the room. I truly felt bad that they couldn't all come in, but sometimes you have to start small I guess. I had to start very small since the 15 kids waiting around were too much to handle. About 5 kids stayed around (we had to scoot the others out) to use one of the younger aged software programs and I started working with one boy on PowerPoint with visions of creating his own story in Powerpoint (it is a great organization tool for kids' stories) down the line.
After my earlier post, a friend asked me via email why I thought the teachers were naive. I see them as naive because they look at this computer as their savior it seems - the thing that will save them from doing their job. The computer is the thing that will get blamed when the students don't perform any better after using them, when in fact the reasons for low student performance have nothing to do with whether or not you have access to computer technologies. It has everything to do with the quality of teaching, the support of families, the support of governments, and a host of other variables. I see these teachers as naive because they simply don't recognize that the technology isn't going to teach itself to the children - it is going to require a lot of time from the teachers and a big supply of patience which they don't seem to exhibit. Using computers in the classroom doesn't guarantee better student performance or better behavior.
I realize that the teaching methodologies can vary widely throughout the world and even within the same school building. But some of the things I have seen at this school haven't built my confidence in the teachers' ability to plan ahead so that the technology is well used and integrated into the curriculum. They don't understand why it would be important to find out more about student attitudes toward the computers, they don't see any value in establishing a technology plan to lay out the goals and methods to achieve the goals that the teachers want to accomplish in the next 3 months, 6 months, and one year. Perhaps I see the value in these things because we have already been through this phase in the US school system and we have learned the lessons which I want to spare them. The lessons I think they should have learned by "watching" teachers in other places for the last 15-20 years.
Even worse, my confidence is sorely lacking that they will be able to pass on the knowledge they do have in using the computers because of many things I have seen at the school but also one particular comment which really bothered me.
On Thursday, the 4th and 5th graders were working on the new concept of algebraic equations. The day before they had learned about what happens when you try to balance an equation to figure out what the variable is. They had learned about equations using addition and subtraction. After just a single lesson their teacher had moved them on to algebraic equations using multiplication and division and it was clear that there had not been any time to practice what had been learned or to actually understand what it means when you have a variable in an equation. The students didn't seem to understand the concepts of balancing an equation at all in fact.
As one student struggled to tell the class what 35 divided by 5 was, the teacher said aloud to the the girl in front of the class:
"This is very shameful that you do not know your 5 times tables, for they are the easiest of them all."
Now, maybe it IS a shameful thing to not know your 5 times tables when you are in 4th or 5th grade and maybe for some people they are the easiest of all to learn. But this punitive response doesn't help a child to understand the times tables or to memorize them with any heartfelt desire. I imagine it does quite the opposite and squelching a young female child in math angers me a lot. Perhaps the teacher realizes that the young girl will never make it to high school, but humiliation is never the key to helping someone learn. Not her nor the other children who are silently watching the lesson unfold.
Well, I have completely digressed and again shown my frustration with a group of teachers who need more than they will get and are probably doing the best they can on low pay and low support. So I will just switch gears radically.
Yesterday we had a major thunderstorm that began around 2:00 and shut down our power for about 7-8 hours. We passed the night in darkness using just a few lights powered by a diesel generator which had some noxious fumes. We had the luxury of watching a few episodes of 24 (Season 5) on Abby's computer which I found quite fun and relaxing, but Abby, having never seen the show, found quite stressful and tense. If you are familiar with 24 then you know how tense it can make you feel!
Today, Saturday, was quite different from the rest of the trip since we were "home" for the majority of the day helping out around Harmony House with a few chores here and there. I ate dumplings and a boiled cabbage and fish dish for lunch and it was surprisingly good. I was hoping for more even.
We checked on the progress of the remodeling effort here at the Harmony House and we played some scrabble to pass the time. It has been an incredibly relaxing day - no complaints, other than the fact that Abby has beat me in both games of Scrabble.
She looks awfully happy doesn't she? Well, there is always tomorrow...
Speaking of tomorrow, we hope to go to church (perhaps we'll arrive late since short services tend to be 2.5 hours long) and the rest of the team will arrive by evening. I'm really looking forward to seeing Ryan and the rest of the team - it has felt like a very long time since I've seen his sweet face.
We survived Friday at the school, and in fact things went quite well. I have realized that I may be better at working with kids than with adults. At least I enjoy it more. Maybe it has something to do with my "control issues." Don't worry, I know you were thinking it as well.
We got to the school around 9:00 and of course school was supposed to have started at 8:30 but hadn't begun yet. The teachers weren't in their classrooms and of course the students weren't either. It was a bit hectic really. Who says that school uniforms are the key to uniformity?
The particular teacher who had been rather rude on Thursday was less so on Friday, although she gave me a nickname with an attitude in her voice which seemed to imply that the nickname wasn't friendly. I'm now called "Betty." I will try to accept my new name with grace, and as my Mother would probably say, "It's better than being called Liz." So at least one person is probably happy with the new name - please enjoy this moment Mom.
Around the time of the lunch break (10:30 to 12:30) my stubborn teacher came to see the software we'd brought in and spent the morning cataloguing. She was thrilled to be using one of the laptops and we even caught her singing along to one of the songs in the particular program. Eventually students began to wander in and gather around the teachers sitting at the laptops - it was fascinating.
They were so intrigued! I think the most dismaying part was that the teachers didn't encourage the students to try the computers, in fact they said nothing to the students and ignored them completely. It raised my fears that the lab will be a teacher's toy and haven, rather than a place of student & teacher engagement.After the teachers left I kept a few students behind to work with them on the computers on the basic things like "this is the mouse...it lets you move around in the computer. You can use your fingers to click the mouse and tell the computer what you want to do"
During this more private student time there was a continual stream of students peeking in the windows from across the room. I truly felt bad that they couldn't all come in, but sometimes you have to start small I guess. I had to start very small since the 15 kids waiting around were too much to handle. About 5 kids stayed around (we had to scoot the others out) to use one of the younger aged software programs and I started working with one boy on PowerPoint with visions of creating his own story in Powerpoint (it is a great organization tool for kids' stories) down the line.
After my earlier post, a friend asked me via email why I thought the teachers were naive. I see them as naive because they look at this computer as their savior it seems - the thing that will save them from doing their job. The computer is the thing that will get blamed when the students don't perform any better after using them, when in fact the reasons for low student performance have nothing to do with whether or not you have access to computer technologies. It has everything to do with the quality of teaching, the support of families, the support of governments, and a host of other variables. I see these teachers as naive because they simply don't recognize that the technology isn't going to teach itself to the children - it is going to require a lot of time from the teachers and a big supply of patience which they don't seem to exhibit. Using computers in the classroom doesn't guarantee better student performance or better behavior.
I realize that the teaching methodologies can vary widely throughout the world and even within the same school building. But some of the things I have seen at this school haven't built my confidence in the teachers' ability to plan ahead so that the technology is well used and integrated into the curriculum. They don't understand why it would be important to find out more about student attitudes toward the computers, they don't see any value in establishing a technology plan to lay out the goals and methods to achieve the goals that the teachers want to accomplish in the next 3 months, 6 months, and one year. Perhaps I see the value in these things because we have already been through this phase in the US school system and we have learned the lessons which I want to spare them. The lessons I think they should have learned by "watching" teachers in other places for the last 15-20 years.
Even worse, my confidence is sorely lacking that they will be able to pass on the knowledge they do have in using the computers because of many things I have seen at the school but also one particular comment which really bothered me.
On Thursday, the 4th and 5th graders were working on the new concept of algebraic equations. The day before they had learned about what happens when you try to balance an equation to figure out what the variable is. They had learned about equations using addition and subtraction. After just a single lesson their teacher had moved them on to algebraic equations using multiplication and division and it was clear that there had not been any time to practice what had been learned or to actually understand what it means when you have a variable in an equation. The students didn't seem to understand the concepts of balancing an equation at all in fact.
As one student struggled to tell the class what 35 divided by 5 was, the teacher said aloud to the the girl in front of the class:
"This is very shameful that you do not know your 5 times tables, for they are the easiest of them all."
Now, maybe it IS a shameful thing to not know your 5 times tables when you are in 4th or 5th grade and maybe for some people they are the easiest of all to learn. But this punitive response doesn't help a child to understand the times tables or to memorize them with any heartfelt desire. I imagine it does quite the opposite and squelching a young female child in math angers me a lot. Perhaps the teacher realizes that the young girl will never make it to high school, but humiliation is never the key to helping someone learn. Not her nor the other children who are silently watching the lesson unfold.
Well, I have completely digressed and again shown my frustration with a group of teachers who need more than they will get and are probably doing the best they can on low pay and low support. So I will just switch gears radically.
Yesterday we had a major thunderstorm that began around 2:00 and shut down our power for about 7-8 hours. We passed the night in darkness using just a few lights powered by a diesel generator which had some noxious fumes. We had the luxury of watching a few episodes of 24 (Season 5) on Abby's computer which I found quite fun and relaxing, but Abby, having never seen the show, found quite stressful and tense. If you are familiar with 24 then you know how tense it can make you feel!
Today, Saturday, was quite different from the rest of the trip since we were "home" for the majority of the day helping out around Harmony House with a few chores here and there. I ate dumplings and a boiled cabbage and fish dish for lunch and it was surprisingly good. I was hoping for more even.
We checked on the progress of the remodeling effort here at the Harmony House and we played some scrabble to pass the time. It has been an incredibly relaxing day - no complaints, other than the fact that Abby has beat me in both games of Scrabble.
She looks awfully happy doesn't she? Well, there is always tomorrow...Speaking of tomorrow, we hope to go to church (perhaps we'll arrive late since short services tend to be 2.5 hours long) and the rest of the team will arrive by evening. I'm really looking forward to seeing Ryan and the rest of the team - it has felt like a very long time since I've seen his sweet face.
Re-posted. Original publish date: March 23, 2007
Yesterday was my "travel day" to Jamaica and I left Boston in the early hours of the morning. At the Newark Airport I met up with my friend Abby and then we flew into Montego Bay. Our hosts (who are on staff with Won by One) met us at the airport and drove us 3 hours to Harmons after a stop in the bigger town of Mandeville for a bite at Burger King.
My whopper junior tasted like fish and as you might imagine it rather turned me off to the meal. My next taste of beef in Jamaica will be the famous "Jamaican Beef Patti" which I can guarantee will not taste at all like fish. But rather like a nice rich fatty piece of pastry heaven.
Today (Thursday) Abby and I went to the local school to observe classes and get to know the teachers. Our goal was to begin to glimpse what a typical day might be like and what challenges the teachers hope the (soon to come) 12 computers will meet in their classrooms.
Abby was relegated to a small windowless classroom to proctor a "mock exam" for the eight 6th grade students who will move on to high school next year. Well, they'll move on if they are lucky or have the money to do so. One of the girls cannot read beyond a first grade level and another child simply cannot read at all. They guessed on the multiple choice exam I suppose. Abby also took the exam....under the pretense of taking it for fun. In reality she took the exam and her test became the scoring guide which she then used to grade the tests for the Principal.
The school is, at best, loosely organized and classroom management consists of raising one's voice. It is hard for someone like myself to sit back and watch. I think this trip is revealing to me how much of a "do-er" I am sometimes - always eager to be involved and proactive.
It seems that the teachers have some experience using computers (I had been led to believe otherwise) and that they are eager to get the computers so they can start using them. I fear that they have a lot to learn, lessons which can only be gained by trying, failing, and trying again. I hope the early experiences won't sour them. Their eagerness seems naive to me but that is surely a product of my own experiences and the 10 years I have been implementing and reflecting on how to best use technology in the classroom.
The prevailing attitude seems consistent with one of the attitudes expressed by teachers when they first get computers. While some teachers are fraught with anxiety about computers (paralyzed at best) others want the computer to do THEIR job for them - it is a lazy approach.
In ways I cannot blame them for these feelings, especially when they teach between 35-40 students huddled in a very tight classroom with rickety metal chairs. The metal chairs may be one of the worst parts - they scrape and screech noisily on the concrete floors, sounding like fingernails on a chalkboard multiplied times 10.
Some of the teachers were reasonably welcoming and others were put out by my presence. I suppose I must appear as an all-knowing American sweeping in with the answers, ready to sweep out again after a short period of time.
I am not what they need really - at least not in the capacity I currently serve. They need a coach and a mentor - someone who can wrestle through real academic challenges with them, someone who understands the daily grind and the culture behind it all. Someone who will be there when the computers break or they are frustrated by an inability that slaps them in the face.
This is not to imply that I am condescending or clueless, but rather that my time is short and they know it. In a way they have scrutinized me as if I am like the technology they are waiting to arrive - I have the answers and they just want me spit them out so they can do something else more desirable with their time. Like play solitaire on the computer. (One of the teachers played solitaire on the computer during the entire "planning" meeting and she took at least 3 cell phone calls. Clearly...she was not engaged.)
As some have learned about me before...I don't roll over lightly when pushed. And, one of the things I love most is the challenge of getting someone to like me when they are prone to shrug me off.
These teachers have, in many ways, met their match. I am an experienced classroom teacher, I have worked in the technology industry, I am studying technology, innovation, & education for my master's degree and I work at a teacher professional development project. Bring it ON!
I sound cocky, but in all honesty, I just hope that the coming days will be smoother, that my kindness will kill the rudeness and that at the end of my time they will see that I just want to help them get what they need. If they would dialogue with me, we could get somewhere. If they would respond to questions, I would have a better idea of what they need. Then we would actually be conversing and that is what I want the most.
Until then, I'll try to figure out how to "dance" enough to keep them entertained and reiterate the same ideas that seem most important and crucial in this beginning moment. "The computer is a tool to that CANNOT replace you....your students need YOU to help them succeed. The computer can help you, but it should not replace you."
One day they will get it - but not today. Maybe tomorrow. I'll keep dancing.
Yesterday was my "travel day" to Jamaica and I left Boston in the early hours of the morning. At the Newark Airport I met up with my friend Abby and then we flew into Montego Bay. Our hosts (who are on staff with Won by One) met us at the airport and drove us 3 hours to Harmons after a stop in the bigger town of Mandeville for a bite at Burger King.
My whopper junior tasted like fish and as you might imagine it rather turned me off to the meal. My next taste of beef in Jamaica will be the famous "Jamaican Beef Patti" which I can guarantee will not taste at all like fish. But rather like a nice rich fatty piece of pastry heaven.
Today (Thursday) Abby and I went to the local school to observe classes and get to know the teachers. Our goal was to begin to glimpse what a typical day might be like and what challenges the teachers hope the (soon to come) 12 computers will meet in their classrooms.
Abby was relegated to a small windowless classroom to proctor a "mock exam" for the eight 6th grade students who will move on to high school next year. Well, they'll move on if they are lucky or have the money to do so. One of the girls cannot read beyond a first grade level and another child simply cannot read at all. They guessed on the multiple choice exam I suppose. Abby also took the exam....under the pretense of taking it for fun. In reality she took the exam and her test became the scoring guide which she then used to grade the tests for the Principal.
The school is, at best, loosely organized and classroom management consists of raising one's voice. It is hard for someone like myself to sit back and watch. I think this trip is revealing to me how much of a "do-er" I am sometimes - always eager to be involved and proactive.
It seems that the teachers have some experience using computers (I had been led to believe otherwise) and that they are eager to get the computers so they can start using them. I fear that they have a lot to learn, lessons which can only be gained by trying, failing, and trying again. I hope the early experiences won't sour them. Their eagerness seems naive to me but that is surely a product of my own experiences and the 10 years I have been implementing and reflecting on how to best use technology in the classroom.
The prevailing attitude seems consistent with one of the attitudes expressed by teachers when they first get computers. While some teachers are fraught with anxiety about computers (paralyzed at best) others want the computer to do THEIR job for them - it is a lazy approach.
In ways I cannot blame them for these feelings, especially when they teach between 35-40 students huddled in a very tight classroom with rickety metal chairs. The metal chairs may be one of the worst parts - they scrape and screech noisily on the concrete floors, sounding like fingernails on a chalkboard multiplied times 10.
Some of the teachers were reasonably welcoming and others were put out by my presence. I suppose I must appear as an all-knowing American sweeping in with the answers, ready to sweep out again after a short period of time.
I am not what they need really - at least not in the capacity I currently serve. They need a coach and a mentor - someone who can wrestle through real academic challenges with them, someone who understands the daily grind and the culture behind it all. Someone who will be there when the computers break or they are frustrated by an inability that slaps them in the face.
This is not to imply that I am condescending or clueless, but rather that my time is short and they know it. In a way they have scrutinized me as if I am like the technology they are waiting to arrive - I have the answers and they just want me spit them out so they can do something else more desirable with their time. Like play solitaire on the computer. (One of the teachers played solitaire on the computer during the entire "planning" meeting and she took at least 3 cell phone calls. Clearly...she was not engaged.)
As some have learned about me before...I don't roll over lightly when pushed. And, one of the things I love most is the challenge of getting someone to like me when they are prone to shrug me off.
These teachers have, in many ways, met their match. I am an experienced classroom teacher, I have worked in the technology industry, I am studying technology, innovation, & education for my master's degree and I work at a teacher professional development project. Bring it ON!
I sound cocky, but in all honesty, I just hope that the coming days will be smoother, that my kindness will kill the rudeness and that at the end of my time they will see that I just want to help them get what they need. If they would dialogue with me, we could get somewhere. If they would respond to questions, I would have a better idea of what they need. Then we would actually be conversing and that is what I want the most.
Until then, I'll try to figure out how to "dance" enough to keep them entertained and reiterate the same ideas that seem most important and crucial in this beginning moment. "The computer is a tool to that CANNOT replace you....your students need YOU to help them succeed. The computer can help you, but it should not replace you."
One day they will get it - but not today. Maybe tomorrow. I'll keep dancing.
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