July 2025
Flowing water
26/07/25 09:14
It may seem a small thing, but I finally managed (after several months) to fix the water fountain in the park. (It had two problems: a clogged water line, and a burnt out electrical part.) Once again, folks can enjoy the flowing water. It's all part of my community service. In fact, I'm getting the reputation of "the guy who takes care of the park." One of my motives is that when I'm changing the water, or adding chlorine to the tank, I meet people. I finally found help to replace the electrical part, and when I began to take apart the plumbing to find the clogged pipe, one of the "park alcoholics" came to help. They know me well by know since they're almost always in the park. And he found the problem! So once again we have flowing water. May they one day find "flowing water" (John 7:38).
Community Neighbors
18/07/25 09:29
Our neighbors organized a meeting last night to discuss security. I installed both a siren and another camera on Wednesday. At the meeting I had an eye-opener. First of all, I realized that a good deal of the neighbors know each other since many are relatives. I felt like a stranger. Second, I had hoped that many would want to install the apps for the siren and camera in their telephones, but the reality is that few understand the technology. Frustrating for me. I wanted to dialogue with folks, but the meeting was more formal than I expected. I guess community work takes time (and prayer).
Community
14/07/25 07:02
Last night some thieves dismantled a car right on our back street! At 7:30pm. The neighbors all came out to discuss what happened and what to do. I saw it as an opportunity to get to know our neighbors, since we know very few. They all walk by our door, but I don't know many names. The conversation centered on creating a chat, plus installing cameras and a siren, all connected to our cell phones. I initiated a chat (to get to know a few names) and plan to install another camera and a siren, both as a service to our small community. We'll see how it goes.
The Next Generation
07/07/25 11:14
As one gets older, I focus on the next generation who will take our place. In today's world, you need a good education not just for a decent job, but to be more useful in society. I have three youth on my list. The first is Danilo, who is in his twenties, lives in the mountains, and is studying a degree in Electronics. He needed a sum to help him register for the next level in English, required for his studies. Then there's Faby's second cousin, who, for various reasons, hasn't been able to finish her law degree. She finally won a spot in the university, but still has to take the entrance exam. She needed help in paying for a course to prepare her for the exam. Finally, Faby’s nephew, who lives with us, finished his high school degree, but, for some reason, the degree didn’t get “in the system.” So we’re encouraging him to persevere in the paperwork, even if he has to repeat the final year. Danilo is in his twenties, but Naty and David are both well past thirty. Still, we pray and hope that all will finish their studies and find good jobs.