The bus stop at San Pedro Sula was like the inside of a glove compartment on a hot day, teeming with people surrounding a fuzzy screen of the France vs. Nigeria fútbol game. Hoping that I was in the right place, I looked to the people ahead of me who were watching intently. “Is this the bus to La Ceiba?” I asked. Rather than being annoyed to be pulled away from the game, they were happy to help, exuding a spirit even warmer than the air. In this strange new place I suddenly felt completely at ease.
My neighbor on the bus, Juana, was so friendly and generous. At our stop in Tela she ordered a chicken dish with tortillas and special cheese, insisting I share with her as we made a saucy, delicious mess. Although I was exhausted from the trip, I could not close my eyes out of fear of missing the incredible new scenery whipping by. Mountains, rivers, palm trees, bougainvilleas, wildlife and livestock painted the bus window. There was a myriad of flora and fauna that I had never seen before. But the most interesting scenes were of people: entire families on road bicycles, school children collecting trash on the side of the road in their uniforms, and women washing bright colored clothing in the rivers.
Upon arrival to Adelante, I was greeted congenially by the staff members, who invited us all to a get-together to welcome the new employees and become acquainted. The culture struck me as very open and accommodating. I knew then that I could feel quite comfortable in this new work environment.
A sweet and charming new coworker later showed me around the Centro where there were mangoes the size of your face and carts overflowing with fresh vegetables. The streets were hot, full of life and had a plethora of businesses.
The day-to-day bustle in Honduras has been intriguing to see. Due to the news, the bulk of what Americans understand these days of Honduras is rampant violence, insecurity, and thousands of unaccompanied minors fleeing to cross the US border. However, what the news does not cover is the kind spirit and resilience of the Honduran people. Nor does it show the efforts being made to mitigate negative outcomes and to improve prospects for future generations.
I am thrilled to be a part of the Adelante team, which strives to prevent the need for violent crime through opportunity and education. Investing inthe lives of communities and their youth is no easy, short-term resolution, but it is an effective approach to cultivate secure lives for new generations to come. I look forward to this meaningful work, new adventure, and making the Honduran way of life my own.
