Wednesday, 21 January 2009

Greetings to all you faithful friends,

We send an early message out today since we are staying around our base camp and resting. We have been experiencing some health issues that have concerned us but got relieving news, in a way. San Salvador is located in a low elevation, in an old volcanic crater, like Mexico City. Our US comparable would probably be a valley between two mountain ranges. The wind blows but the air does not really go anywhere except around and around. This time of the year, the sugar cane fields are being burned and harvested. There is much fine and large ash. The heavy pollution from the busses, trucks, and cars hangs in the air. The dry dust and dirt is everywhere. You can wipe a table and 5 minutes later, you can write your name on it.

We have been breathing in an unhealthy mixture that is affecting our throats, sinuses, and noses. We got advice today about a medication that will provide relief. We took our first dose this morning and are already feeling a little better. We plan to sleep today to regain energy. Dan, a US friend here, says this is a typical condition in January. We cancelled our visit with Club Rotario this morning since we did not think that blowing, sneezing and coughing would make for welcome company. We plan to attend next Wednesday.

We have been reflecting on solidarity and accompaniment - their similarities and differences. As we work in the communities, participate in the electoral process, talk with our brothers and sisters in faith, and experience life in the city, we are becoming more deeply aware of these crucial components as they relate to ministry and service in the Kingdom of God. We have much to learn.

We were able to catch a small part of the inauguration on tv yesterday. We are eager to go to the library and read all the news in English to appreciate this historical event. The people of El Salvador are very excited about this change in the US and what it might mean for the good of their country. We must all watch closely as policies and practicies are initiated for Central America.

We close with a wonderful encouragement that our West Bend friend Nancy sent to us this morning: I Samuel 7:12 - ''The Lord has helped us thus far.'' And we know that He will continue do do so! Thank you, Nancy. Thank you all for your responses and insights. Please feel free to forward our messages to those you think will be interested in knowing and praying. We appreciate your kove and prayers - we know there is an army of angels around us, both seen and unseen.

David and Nancy