Back in Bolivia

I'm back in Bolivia and adjusting to the incredible difference a nine hour bus ride across the border makes. I never knew how far behind Bolivia was until I stepped into Salta. It's funny how you get used to things when you're completely surrounded by them all the time. I literally forgot that not all of South America is like Bolivia. It was amazing for me to sit in an air conditioned bus for a nine hour bus ride and stop at different bus stations and pick up other passengers along the way. Did i mention the road was paved the entire way? It was such a smooth ride i didn't realize we had made it until Ross woke me up!

I realized how truly behind Bolivia is from the rest of the world and why it has the reputation as the poorest country in South America. With this realization i feel a lot better about my work and my frustrations. It's not just the people i work with that are slow to change, it's ALL of Bolivia that's slow to change. You would think Bolivia would learn a thing or two from their neighboring country, but nope, they haven't changed much and don't have any plans to do so anytime soon. So, i figure my two years here won't be too much of an impact on Bolivia as a whole, and unlike when i first started, i've accepted this fact.

My new goal is to focus on the little triumphs of my service, such as helping out one of my favorite kids here at the orphanage get a handle on his reading disorder and learn how to read and write better. Also, teach the kids a little about self esteem and what it means to love yourself for who you are. My bigger goal is to try and teach the kids to work in teams, it's sad how these kids are taught from a very young age to take care of yourself or get left behind and lending a helping hand is waste of time.

I'm glad to be back, I was missing USA a whole bunch and going to Argentina quenched my craving a bit. I had good food, reliable public transportation, clean bathrooms, and a hot shower everyday, what more could i have asked for?

I'll post my pics as soon as possible, until next monday!