So one reality of serving in a developing world is supplies are often limited and in a post-cyclonic Vanuatu those supplies are even MORE limited. Not because they aren't being sent, but because of where Vanuatu is in the middle of the South Pacific: removed from many developed countries shipments are delayed and flights overloaded, so resources are running low. This is even true for medications and food!
As I've mentioned before, safety and security is a priority for Peace Corps. Malaria prevention is part of that and with the delays that are taking place, I'm down to 4 pills before I run out. The shipment won't be here for a week or longer. Not from the lack of effort. On the contrary, Peace Corps has done amazing at making sure it gets here quicker then the rest of the country is getting theirs. This just just reminds me of the American privileges we have. I call it American privileges because I HATE the term "white man privilege". It's not a white man thing. I'm a proud Native American woman. But, man, being from a developed country sure does place my needs above others, huh? If you can't tell, I'm having a real hard time swallowing that pill of humility. Now before you get worried about me not having a physical pill, our amazing Peace Corps staff have figured out how to shuffle meds around to make sure we all have enough until the shipment comes. But even having that prevention pill is a daily reminder of the privileges I have over the people I serve. Yes I know I need to be healthy to help them and I love Peace Corps safety and security concerns, but I think you all need to see both sides of this experience!
So let me paint another privilege I have. Food! I went to the Mama's Market today to pick up food to send back to our staff in Vila because the gardens are destroyed and the food they are so used to eating (like island cabbage) is GONE; a casualty of Cyclone Pam. Well, now the markets here in Santo are running out :'( Meanwhile I had enough money to treat me and 3 friends to burgers with chips (fries) and pizza at a local resort tonight. That thought kept running through my mind as we ate. I know me buying food at the resort helps provide employment for the workers, which helps them build their houses back again and pay their childrens' school fees. But I know they get about 10-15% while some overseas investor gets another car, piece of jewelry, some fancy dinner, or even a smart phone with 4G internet. UGH! Honestly don't we ever see just how much disparity in wealth there is? Don't think I believe everyone should get hand-outs, but I don't get why a CEO has to clear so much more than those who work for him. IF (BIG IF) I ever run a business, I want to work WITH my employees, not have them work FOR me: we both work for our clients!
Anyway, this maybe a bit over-opinionated but I want to share my true perspective of this experience through my eyes because that's the lenses I'm looking through. Please know I can agree to disagree but the fact of the matter is this country is hurting. But me, I ache. I have a place I can fly back to any second if it becomes too hard. These people don't and that IS a FACT! It's a humbling one for me.
Until next time
JumpInTheJungle
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