John's Next Step

Exams ended this week and school will end in a couple of weeks. Exams had to end early because our graduation, set by the government, is Tuesday. Last Wednesday was the first day without exams and some of the students decided it would be good to clean the library. I was not supposed to see the work in progress, but when they saw the camera – they relented and let me in. Mopping the floor - wow! Sorting books - some in the trash and some back on the shelves Playing to working ? Taking a break I’m happy they worked so hard on the library. I’m still working with the students as I can so it’s nice they take pride in the area. However, because of rules about termites we will not be able to bring our books to the new school next year. I think the plan is to have a book sale. Books on the island are expensive. The school has already talked with Hands Across the Sea. The organization helps with books for libraries. It seems very well organized and works w...

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and father figures out there. This day is a big reminder of my father. He was a special man and has been gone for 5 years now. I don’t need a special day to remember that I’m a father and grandfather. I miss my children and grandchildren, my family and friends everyday. Every single day. We can call and exchange pictures, but of course remain physically separated. My physical separation from my family and friends is my decision. Father’s Day is a day for me to reflect on my decision to do Peace Corps, again. This is my second tour so I knew what I was getting into. I knew it would not be easy. A volunteer never knows what things that will make it difficult, but should expect difficulties and prepare. Some places may be easier than others, but Peace Corps is not needed where things are easy. I respect the Peace Corps tradition and want to help it live up to its proud tradition. So, I get up each day and focus on how I can make my ass...

Caribbean island nations rely on tourism for part of their economy for good reason – the islands are varied and amazing so they are a good destination for North Americans, Europeans, and others. I understand that some people have issues with tourism and the potential damage to the environment and the local economy. Certainly, the primary modes of island tourist transportation, airplane and cruise ships, greatly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. On balance – I support tourism, particularly for the smaller island economies. First being isolated and most having a population less than St. Louis proper, they need foreign currency and business opportunities for citizens to have a more robust economy. Second, the development related to lodging, venues, etc. has not overwhelmed the local environment. Tourist traffic encourages and allows the government and private entities to protect and maintain the environment. As people cleaning their house before a visit, a focus on tourism...

Grenada and some, but not all, of the islands had Corpus Christi as a holiday on Thursday, so no school. On Thursday several churches organized a field day. There were races, marching, and relaxing. And food, always food. I had fried chicken and fries. Most of the events were for the “houses” (churches). However, 50 yard dash races for children, men and women were open to others. One of the teachers, a trainee, placed second in the women’s race. The only white man in attendance, no names, wore jeans and not running shoes. He also doesn’t run barefoot like some people. He watched the young men race. There was no 50 and older race if another excuse is required.  Lots of excuses! Marching competition Spectators and time to eat Garden I also did some gardening on Thursday. The sweet corn was finished so I used my cutlass to chop up the stalks so it can eventually add to the organic material in the soil. Most of the soil I’ve seen on the island a...