In both locations we were working at the same time as work crews from the states. This is always fun, and it gave Glenda a chance to devote part of her time to working with the crews and the local people, instead of just helping me as I shot video. She is always a big help to me, as sometimes I need an assistant. In Honduras, she got to do some nursing, something she has wanted to do in the field.
Both locations having work crews was about the only similarity. The work, the conditions, the weather and almost everything else was totally different between the two parts of the trip. Managua is low, hot and humid. Tegucigalpa is high in the mountains, cool and comfortable. In Managua the crew was working on a hospital, a large project where each crew does a small part of the work. In Honduras they built a house, start to finish.
Those were the minor differences. Major differences were in the conditions as provided by the ministries. At one place, we were seperated into three groups, with widely varying living conditions from air conditioned comfort to the absolute minimum. Consideration for safety and welfare, as well as basic needs, was below what I have come to expect from missionaries and those who organize trips. One couple left early, disillusioned with the experience. The ministry is doing great things, but I was disappointed with the treatment of those who devoted their vacations to the work.
The other area was much better. Everyone stayed together, making the team feel more like a team. Much more time was spent getting to know the local people, the ministry, and the area. Everyone went away excited and ready to return another time. Even though the working conditions here were far worse than the other site, there was more enthusiasm and feeling of accomplishment. It was a great experience.
I have thought long and hard about the two sites. The difference is personalities. Both are doing great things for the Lord. Perhaps it is because one missionary has been so long in the field the he is out of touch with our thinking. I don't really know, but it bothers me to see someone leave the field with a bad taste in their mouth about missions.
While we can't always figure out the why's and wherefore's, we can always know that God has a plan, and good will come out of it. By seeing the varying conditions, I got the idea of using our website as a place where others can tell about their short-term mission experiences. I believe this will be good for those wanting to research sites for future trips, and for missionaries wanting to improve their relationships with mission teams. There are many ministries out there wanting help, and most are deserving. Yet, the real benefit of short term trips is to the ones going on the trip. They must come home with an enthusiasm for missions. Hopefully, this will help ensure that.
Try to spend some time in a third-world mission. Use a couple of weeks of your vacation to work for the Lord. The chances of you having a great time and coming back refreshed and on fire are great. Go into the trip knowing that you will face hardships, compared to your daily life. Don't expect to be pampered, but expect to learn. With the proper attitude, you will love it!
If you are a missionary who hosts work crews, realize that they to have basic needs. A safe place to stay, drinkable water, and the chance to explore their surroundings are but a few. Provide for them on a level similar to how you live, and realize that they are at a disadvantage unless they speak the local language. Most of all, ask if there are problems or needs that are not being addressed, and explain why if providing is not possible. These people have devoted themselves to you, if but for a few days; do not dissppoint them.
We are really learning about the mission field. I don't suppose it will ever stop. At least I hope not. Have your friends who have been on short-term missions fill out the forms page, then we can all learn more!