A Final Hurdle

Miracles happen. No, it not be the raising of the dead and the healing of people, but hearts change. We witnessed it.

Every month there is a meeting of the community or ‘sindicato’. This is the meeting at which all the business is discussed – and discussed. Since September these meetings have been a strain on Jake. Each month he would come home more frustrated with certain members of the community and their expectations. Each month he would ask for a letter stating that we are members of the community, that we own the land, and that we have all the privileges of being a member of this community. Every month the request would be ignored or someone would speak negatively. Although Jake kept his cool at the meetings, the tension was wearing on him.

June 30 – meeting day. Jake went, as usual. He came home within a few hours and asked if we had the possibility of photocopying a document. Daniel and Inez’s family had come with a proposal concerning the land. Their proposal was not acceptable to the community and Jake made a suggestion for a slight change that would make the agreement more just. One of the more negative members immediately said that it was a great idea and the new proposal was agreed upon and drawn up. We photocopied it and everyone was happy.

Later in the meeting some of the credit issues were discussed and again Jake requested the letter. This time there was no discussion. Permission was given for us to draw up the letter with a few minor changes. We then could bring the letter to the president and secretary to sign, get it properly notarized in Yapacani, and we would have our letter of security.

The attitude of the community has changed. Was it the death? Is it Mario and his support? We do not know but we sense the difference. We are thankful for the change and the opportunity to stay here and live with these people.