I thought I would share a little more about what we are doing when we head out to village to work on the census…I hope this gives you a glipse into their lives…
A few things I have learned about the squatter village:
– We sometimes have to walk across a balance beam – below is garbage and sewer.
– Most families have a store in front of their home. It is one of the main incomes for families.
– A jug of drinking water costs 35 pesos which is about 60 cents.
– Coke bottles are useful for gardening.
– Young children are often left home alone.
– 10/10 homes request food and water.
One of the goals of the census is to design a program that can be used to enter information about each household and their needs. The program includes a picture of the family, a map of the village and where they live, prayer requests, and a list of basic needs. For example: if one family member requests that they are looking for a job and someone on staff knows of a position we can search the database of who is seeking a position. It is going to be a tool that can be used not only for KIM staff but also for future world racers and other teams to follow. We enjoy it because it gives us the opportunity to see the village, play with kids, and pray for families.
So, the hard part is that this problem is bigger than me. I can’t fix it. At the same time I also struggle with doing this during the day then head home to a delicious meal, then jump into a JeepMey to go to the mall because I think I need more tank tops. How can I turn it off that quickly? Why don’t I lay awake at night with my heart breaking? These are just some of the questions I have been processing this week.
Here are some lyrics that go along with what I’m feeling…
“There is plenty on this earth to suit our needs. There will never be enough to satisfy our greed. Weigh this heavy on me now until I can hardly breathe. Love through me. Love through me. Help us see. Our eyes are weak. Help us please. Love through me. Love through me.” – Jenny & Tyler
Love you all. Thanks for praying.
XOXO – Michelle
