Panama: My 6-Month Update

Ñan törö dere! Mä boa ño?

That's some of the indiginous language I have been learning. It means "Good Afternoon! How are you?" The indios (indians) are very passionate about their language and they love teaching it to extranjeros(foreigners). They are fully confident that I will become fluent in Ngäbere before I leave. I'm not as confident since I already have my hands full learning Spanish! But I have picked up some basic conversation, so I am learning chi biti chi (little by little).

 

It's amazing that I have now been in Panama for 6 months. Time is flying by for me! I wanted to give everyone a quick update of how I am doing and what I have been doing. It's tough to keep in touch without having a computer or post office in my community, so an email every 6 months is my best shot.

 

First of all, I am doing great! Panama is an extraordinary country and I have really grown to love the people and the culture here. I am living a life very different from what I had in the United States, but I am embracing it for the 2 years that I am here. There are certain things I miss about home, mainly no bugs and English! But I am accustomed to my new home and can't imagine being anywhere else right now.

 

The Peace Corps experience is so much more than I expected. I came thinking I would be teaching small business owners about basic business skills, but my community doesn't even understand how to use a proper accounting ledger. They don't understand how to save their money for future expenses or purchases. What I am really learning are soft skills, people skills, facilitation techniques, how to work amongst a small group of people who are unsure of my capabilities. All important things that will serve me well in the future no matter what field I go into.

 

I encourage you to read about my adventures on my blogwww.learnlovegive.blogspot.com. My pictures are uploaded to Facebook.

 

A few people have asked about care packages. Here is a list of items that are appreciated and the address to which they should be sent:

 

Mary Beth Strawn

Entrega General

David, Chiriqui 17401

Republica de Panamá

 

- Maps of the world, countries, cities, etc. I love maps!
- Magazines (fashion, home and garden, arts and crafts)
- American candy for the kids
- Puzzles for the kids
- Random fabric, ribbon, and buttons to use to decorate my home (curtains, pillows, etc.)
- Books (English and Spanish)
- Antibacterial gel

- Candles (especially citronella)

- Peanut butter, chocolate, granola, nuts, dried fruit

- Random antique finds like candle holders (for the tall skinny candles), dishes, trinkets (I love antiques...)

 

Also, a few people have asked how they can support my community. There will be opportunities in the future once my projects are under way. I am meeting with the community now to determine which projects are most feasible and which I can best help them with. I will keep you updated! Thank you for your support!

 

Please also continue to pray for me and my community as we work together to improve their lives.

 

With all my love and appreciation for each and every one of you,

Mary Beth