November 20, 2010

Saturday, November 20, 2010

The final full day in El Salvador.  We have had a pleasant and restful day though more to do tonight.  We have our evening of food preparation and meals for the homeless.

This morning we ventured to the coast for a tour of the black sand beaches and fish market.  I believe this was my 1^st exposure to a black sand beach that people were visiting to play in the surf.  There were many folks on holiday and much as we would see in the States.  Differences included the horses which were ridden up and down the beach, the noticeable absence of shells, the frequent observing of rock which appeared as polished lava rock, and Central American commerce.  The photos we took are an interesting reflection on the day.

The fish market experience was also a good one for me.  The market has many similarities to others I have seen – the sales tactics were much more aggressive, however.  The variety of fish was also broader.  Seeing the boats and nets these folks use to fish was eye opening.  While they are not far off shore the experience must be harrowing each time they go out. I am certain there is no coast guard cutter or helicopter looking out for them either.

In the afternoon, we went to a touristy market where most found “unique” trinkets to take back to friends and loved ones.  The “Art of the Sale” is most certainly a book they have all read.

The last part of the afternoon was a stop at a large, modern mall.  There we saw everything one would see at any mall in the States.  Sobering, the contrast between the “haves” and the “have nots” here.  There are many in this country with extreme wealth, yet the overall degree of poverty seems greater than any place I have ever visited.  While the revolution most certainly changed the country for the better, it is hard to visualize a situation much worse.



Dr. Dave



The dinner was wonderful – fish across the board.  I haven’t eaten any better anywhere.

Finally, we spent the evening preparing and providing food to a few homeless groups in the city.  The experience was similar to before.  The second stop worked out much better, as the group was more orderly.  We got off to a better start with better order.  We also had a very respectful gathering at the front of their line who graciously waited for women, children, and elders to eat all the while helping keep the other gentlemen with a degree of order and camaraderie.



Glenda and Kike at Casa Concordia
after feeding the homeless

 At the end of the night Kiké honored us with a certificate acknowledging our support for the homeless of San Salvador.  It was a moving experience for me.  I am not able to fully appreciate the energy level it takes to provide regularly for these people.  It is, in some respect, a never ending mission.  But I suppose that is the point, our work here should not be considered a destination, but rather a journey.  A journey of highs and lows, but one of providing for those who cannot (and those who can).  Live one day at a time.  Do the next right thing.  Believe in God.  Pray.

Thank you to all who have shared this time with me.  I shall treasure it always.

Dave Heistand