Bolivia

So part of the camp is to brief us about projects, life and safety in Bolivia. The team are great and very supportive. They gave us a great deal of info about such things. One night particularly stood out when they spoke about what the social, economical and historial background of Bolivia.

As the team shared about the culture here, it was hard not to be moved by how much change, struggle and oppression the country and the people have suffered in such a short space of time. It's clear to see why the people still seem to be forming a sense of national identity and settling as a culture, especially after such heavy oppression from the colonial powers. So much that was truely Bolivian has been stripped away from the people, their living and their history and replaced with colonial culture, ideology, language and even dress. This is why there are many cholitas which came from the Spanish and hence the national language.

Also, the goverment claims to be socialist but of recent has moved to being much more like a control state and monitors a lot of things and closes down groups if they oppose as well as distorting media. There is a  huge gap between the rich and poor here and any protests are quickly dealt with.  When you see this country it's hard to see such a beautiful nation that has suffered so much already be in a place where the governement is not truely supporting it's people. Again makes things in England look like luxury in comparison. It was hard not to feel emotionally overwhelmed as I was hearing about the political and social climate here and be close to tears and moved to pray.

Though I rejoice at the kindness of Jesus to call me here for a year. What a privilege to be here and have a chance to spend a year in this great country. Moreover, it being the least developed nation in S. America and yet it is beautiful and the people are kind, warm and generous. Such an honour to be able to be here and a wonder at the wisdom of God  to know exactly where to put me.   There is much richness in this hidden gem.