We are approaching our one year anniversary of moving across the world to a remote town in Indonesia. So, so, so, so crazy! What an amazing journey and life-altering experience! Looking back on the last year, it has gone by so quickly! I cannot believe the things we've done and seen -- from the Opera House in Australia to the temples in Yogyakarta to the beaches in Bali and to the elephants in Thailand!
The lessons I have learned more recently aside from day-to-day life here and traveling is the true reality of life and humanity in the jungle. From volunteering in the local village hospital I have seen starving children orphaned by AIDS, tough and relentless women providing for their family carrying tons of food on their heads while barefoot, men armed with bow and arrows and machetes and I have also seen the precious smiles and nods through a blockade of communication differences. Interesting how we all have an innate need to survive but enjoy the occasional softness of humility. These moments my children have barely seen but I hope what they have seen they hold dear and appreciate what they have and where they come from.
The people of this land can be very intimidating and aren't without their flaws as we aren't flawless either but their primal existence is humbling. They have learned to quickly adapt from only wearing penis guards to working underground operating equipment. However, I don't think they'll ever forget where they come from as their blood runs thick of jungle survival and when someone visits their villages it is like going back in time. They are very fascinating people!
There have been many fantastic memories made within this crazy year. We have all learned so much and I hope we have helped others learn and see new things as well. As we look forward to the trip home in about four weeks, no doubt, we will be bringing a little of Tembagapura back with us!
Below are pictures a friend took from the local tribes and me at the hospital...
