In Conclusion

It seems that we all enjoyed our time in Nicaragua. When these ideas begin, most often I have no idea what to foresee. But life has taught me to trust, and so our experience in Nicaragua gifted us with many surprises. Was it the size of the spiders, or the fact that they quietly stayed in their own space and never bothered us? Or maybe it was the idea of living with scorpions that were not poisonous? How about volunteers working together to create an event of far-reaching support to the pets of San Juan del Sur? Some of you expressed your delight at exploring the volcanos. The list could go on, but for me it is all of these things and more...

Big, but harmless

Seeing one was enough

In this last post I would like to share with you something special. We made no distinct effort to highlight any of our veterinary volunteers, but today I would like to introduce everyone to Ehud. He was one of our five veterinarians. Along with his wife, he had traveled to the Central Americas from Israel. And as an Israeli he had several cultures to assimilate, Nicaragua, other veterinarians, and a collection of young American Veterinary students eager to learn. He also needed to tackle Spanish and English, neither his natural language. Ultimately this became a Win-Win situation.

On our last evening together, Ehud had prepared a small speech for all of us. He needed to use an on-line translator to craft his words into a beautiful message that he has given me permission to share with you. It is a fine example of the simplicity of Blendingtogether. So often we travel to make our world smaller, digging into the places and people that we consider far away and mysterious. It is by going there that we find a new home and new friends. Ehud has provided us with OUR mirror, eloquently stating what is means to join hands across a border that may only exist in our minds.

Ehud"As approached the date of my trip, I began rising concerns how shall I integrate in a group of people from another culture, Who speak a language I do not control well. I'm glad that you did everything to make me feel good and helped me to be part of the group. I am very grateful to all of you. You are professional, responsible, serious and willing to help.

I know that language often made difficulties especially when we worked together. I could not always explain to you my intentions but you patiently listened to me and helped me explain to you.

Most years I work at the clinic I work alone. When I worlked with you I enjoyed the benefits of working together and learning from you a lot.

In general, Israeli culture in many ways similar to American culture but there are still many aspects that are different. I know that often you did not understand my behavior and if anyone hurt I'm sorry.

I invite you all to come and know the State of Israel. We have many beautiful and interesting places. We also have a house in the village by the sea where we go on weekends, so you'll have a place to live and rest.

Robert, I turn to you specifically because you were the only guy and my roommate. When I saw the toilet no door I wondered how we'll manage without interrupting each other. As soon as possible you found a solution: One morning I went to the room and I heard you whistling unknown tune to give me a sign...

Finally I turn to the young among us. Veterinary profession is a difficult profession because it brings together three dimensions: the animal, the owner and the doctor. The Doctor, has to give the weight of each dimension by his understanding. I know doctors in Israel whom placed themselves in the first place and as a result do to the animals and to their owners unworthy things. I hope you will always let the first place to the animals as you have done in this trip.

I wish you all success in your way."

Thank  you Ehud... see you in Israel someday.

Keep your bags somewhat packed folks, we are off again in November, and its going to be the trip of a lifetime!