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I was leafing through an old picture book about Managua at Hispamer, Nicaragua's largest chain of bookstores, imagining myself walking those streets in the book. The glorious mansions, department stores, and unique architecture called for a very different Managua than the one today.
Lizzet, my old boss, invited me to stay at her house for a bit last week and took me on a tour of old Managua, the Managua that the famous earthquake of 72' didn't destroy. We went with her daughter Magda, son Adiac, husband, and a friend.
It wasn't anything like the work of Gaudi in Barcelona, but when you are used to one story cement housing, it's enough to raise an eyebrow. We even took a tour of the newly finished sea walk park on the edge of Lake Managua.
Hey, I also have a new look too. Is it chiq enough for Chicago?
Lizzet, my old boss, invited me to stay at her house for a bit last week and took me on a tour of old Managua, the Managua that the famous earthquake of 72' didn't destroy. We went with her daughter Magda, son Adiac, husband, and a friend.
It wasn't anything like the work of Gaudi in Barcelona, but when you are used to one story cement housing, it's enough to raise an eyebrow. We even took a tour of the newly finished sea walk park on the edge of Lake Managua.
Hey, I also have a new look too. Is it chiq enough for Chicago?
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The old cathedral |
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Lizzet, one of my Nica mothers, and great friends |
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Pig roast anyone? |
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Do ya like the new look? |
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Magda speaks perfect English. It was the first language she learned while Lizzet was studying in Arkansas. |
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Magda and I at the edges of Lake Managua |
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Social Security building |
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With architecture like this, Managua used to be a beautiful capital city. |
You're ready for Chicago!
Enjoy the rest of your time in Nicaragua. I know you will miss the country and the wonderful friends you have made there. I also know you will be visiting Nicaragua often in your lifetime. Your service there has touched many lives in such a positive way. Your experiences in the Peace Corps have helped you to grow into a man of compassion. It has not been an easy 2 years for you Erik, but you have shown a strength and drive beyond compare. Your service has truly made you into a leader with a strong work ethic, and a strong sense of knowing what is right and just in this world. You understand poverty and what it can do to the human spirit, but you have also experienced the joy of simplicity in life. Yes, you've seen and experienced not having many comforts, but the riches that a simpler life can bring are gems that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. I know my two visits to Nicaragua have taught me to appreciate what is important in life. That the wealth, not of money or things, but of close connections and experiences with family and friends are most important. I was humbled by the Nicas faith in God. They never complained that they wanted more, but that their faith will help carry them through.
Bring yourself home to us safe and sound and as always I am so proud of you. Thanks for this wonderful journal Erik. Thank you for sharing your incredible journey with all of us. I know anyone who has read and been a part of your experience in Nicaragua has always looked forward to your next entry and enjoyed each and every one of them! It has touched people deeply. Love, Mom