September 1

The hidden PR far away from tourist hotels

Good afternoon everyone. Do you ever wonder what a missionary does with his/her day? Of course each day is different and it varies with each missionary and the nature of his/her calling. As for me, a typical day on the beautiful island of PR would be somewhat like today. Of course there are the mundane tasks of getting up and getting going which includes feeding the dogs, cats, birds and myself in that order. Then I am off to my office in the front of our house to practice piano a little (I am trying to learn my part for a couple of new songs at church) and work on mission matters such as correspondence and bookkeeping.

My thoughts keep reminding me I MUST go to the hardware store during the day. Hurricane Irma (category 3-4) churns ever nearer to the east of the island. The National Weather Service forecasts it might go right over the island or perhaps to the north...too early to tell. Everyone is holding their breath. Monday we will have a better idea. The last time a storm of that magnitude scourged the island we were without lights and water between two and three weeks. Considering that unpleasant scenario, I need to get some supplies today (to avoid the crowds), begin tying things down as best as possible and make sure fresh batteries are on hand along with water and canned food; at least a week's supply. But before that happens, I have an evangelistic Bible study at 10:00 AM that will stretch on til' 11:30 AM. First is the socialization time and then the actual study. Home visits of all types take longer than visits in the States...at least that is the impression I get. Latins are very sociable and such matters are not to be rushed at all!

Balloon tethered off a high peak in Jayuya, PR

After the Bible study I decide to head to the bank. Since we may be without power for an undetermined time, cash will be king. As the storm draws near, ATMs will be raided as people panic. Better to deal with it today. I check the mail box and discover I have a package to pick up at the post office. Another unexpected task, but no problem since on the way I have to visit two families. Both are struggling with the weight of life's burdens that at times seems almost overwhelming. Hearts open up, anger is vented, and tears flow freely as pain is shared.

Now I am here, writing this blog just as I promised myself.. It cannot wait till next week, ...the hurricane... no power, no internet, no phone. Mary just came through the door, home from the university after a long day of teaching. She has our granddaughter in tow and a pizza box, a Friday night perk for the grandchild... (okay, all of us). I still have one more task today; I must mow the yard before the hurricane arrives. Tomorrow a church outing will take up the entire day. We leave for the center of the island to ride in a balloon anchored to one of the taller mountains in PR. I believe 35-40 are signed up to go. It should be a great trip, the last outing of the year. Sunday is church. Monday is getting ready, putting up storm shutters and scratching off  as "completed" a thousand details. So, today, the yard.

Looking back a few weeks; we had our day camp for the kids the last Saturday in July. We worked hard to make it a quality event. Promo was properly done, the teaching of a lesson by a Christian clown was great, the handcrafts, and breakfast and lunch were enjoyed by everyone. Sea Grant gave a workshop and then a 16' blowup water slide capped off the day. The total was fifty-five present.

Men's work day

Yesterday, nine men of the church had a work day. Trees were trimmed, a new curtain was hung in the auditorium, the water fountain was repaired and some exterior lights were fixed. I love these events. Often men find a hard time fitting in and feeling useful in the church. These days are tailor-made for many guys.

One last detail; Venturing crew 288, sponsored by the church, handed out breakfast to the poor and homeless two Saturdays ago. One-hundred sandwiches quickly disappeared. Hats off to that group. Oh, I forgot, the church is collecting used clothing for a mission in a neighboring town. So far the church has responded well. September 9th is the day we close that benevolent event. More on that next time.

That's all. Blessings.

Johnathan and Mary