Arrival in Crownpoint

Well, we have had a few difficulties getting connected but I think we are getting caught up.  Below is a recap of our 2nd day on the bus and our arrival in CrownPoint.  Enjoy!

YMO in Crownpoint, NM

This message contains graphics.  If you do not see graphics, click here to view...Arrival in Crownpoint

This message contains graphics.  If you do not see graphics, click here to view...Day 2 On the bus

Here is a summary of our second day on the bus...June 9, 2013

We are rolling down the highway, Sky still somber overhead but starting to share a little light. The day will be full upon us soon. All is very quiet as many grab a few more dreams before the day fully opens its eyes.  

There are about 40 ish of us on the bus and, though some of us are still getting to know each other, it is a fantastic group. The youth ( I can't call them kids but the word "youth" also makes me think of My cousin, Vinnie) are mostly high school age. We also have several college age kids that are Students In Training (SITs).  And then there is Staff, from medical to communications and all in between.  Every time we load up the bus, roll call is conducted so we don't leave anyone behind. And, amazingly, this is a real on time group. I am so awed by the maturity and responsibility displayed by all involved. 

Our special, surprise guest is Anaya who is an Apache Shammon. He first met many in the group last fall when they went to Verdun. Hearing his perspective on events, customs, history is extremely eye opening and leaves me very humbled. His presence helps my eyes with a new filter. 

Last night we stayed in Elk City, OK, which is not far from the recent tornado damage in OK.  We saw signs of the devastation along the way...piles of debris along the highway, billboards hanging with all of their proud display plucked away, semis piled on each other like a child's abandoned toys. Then as we all tucked in, a massive thunderstorm hit which was a bit disquieting. 

So, the day is waking.  We shall see and welcome what gifts come today.  

Stopped in an Amarillo truckstop for breakfast at about 8 am.  These trucks  are a world unto themselves.  Some are shiny and some a bit dusty.  Curtains were drawn for sleep, dog sitting proudly in the drivers seat for another. And, showers available.  

Fishtail hair braiding, quiet conversations, building a blanket fort, watching The  Other Guys. 

Father Chris reminded us that our number 1 mission is to build community in the church. It is not to eradicate poverty, that is a mandate.  We are arriving, that we know.  We don't know if we will arrive first or if Tulsa will.  However, the first there will greet the other group as if it is our' home. This is the next step in building community. Don't anticipate but participate. Live in this present moment. Don't worry about the next. Be in the moment.  We are all uniquely beautiful. 

We arrived in Crownpoint and greeted our fellow missioners from Tulsa.  However, just when you think you have everything under control, God likes to spice things up.  Housing was the first obstacle but all pulled together and we ended up with a place to put our heads.  Once space was located, the unloading began which was fun watching blown up air mattresses being moved back and forth as we adjusted. While all have running water not all have showers but it adds to the comaraderie.    And, we must remember, this is for a week whereas many live like this all their lives. We are here like this for a reason.  We are here now.