the rains just began. it sounds like a strong wind through the fronds of a palm. its a gentle sound on the top our roof. it hasn't silenced the other night sounds, and the booming caribbean music and barking dogs only serve as BGVs for this wonderful sound of rain. relief from the hottest day yet, and an even more warm and still night.

but for those not sleeping in between cement walls and under an aluminum roof, it could be the sound that ushers in further suffering in their already devastated and despaired lives. for those living in tent cities, or even worse: structures constructed by found pieces of debris, tarp, and cloth; for those, this could be the sound that drives them to hopelessness and defeat. pray for the ground to absorb this rain, that floods would be thwarted, and that those in dire conditions are able to see God despite their suffering.

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high-notes today: implemented new curriculum yesterday, they remembered it today and did well! ladies bible study was a blessing. first staff meeting also! ate tuna salad for the first time in my life, and liked it. we had chocolate pudding, garlic toast with REAL garlic, and brownies today. got skype-to-phone account, so i can call anyone at anytime from my computer! such a blessing to talk to my family and friends today. met my financial needs, and am trying to actually use any surplus to enhance my classroom (i used a cardboard box as a bulletin board!)

low-points: class behavior, no respect for self, others, teacher, space, earth. lots of physical violence (hitting, biting, pushing) between the kids. so hot today. worse than hot. dripping with sweat, and i don't usually sweat much.