Hello
everyone. I wanted to share a little about my recent TDY to Timor
Leste. Timor Leste is an island in the Indonesian island chains, north of
We landed
on the island and were warmly greeted by the Timor military and
We spent
one week out at our sight seeing the people. For 8 hours a day, we
educated and treated people, preformed dental tool extractions, gave
medications and glasses to those who showed up. During the five days we
saw over 4700 men, women and children. Seeing these people made me
very humble, as they hardly had anything but were some of the happiest people I
have met. Kids would have a flat soccer ball and would have a blast
playing. I had translators with me the entire time, and they taught me a
lot about their country and culture, and I taught them some of ours (I might
have corrupted them just a little).
My main
job was education and patient screening. I taught the people proper hygiene,
cleanliness, proper food and water storage and cooking, things we don't have to
think of. Most of the people did not know this, and the sad part is most
of them are not able to do what was taught. Again, not having running
water means they have to acquire this, usually by traveling long distances to
collect what they can for a length of time. When they get their water,
it's usually for drinking, so hand washing is seldom done, many would only
shower once a week, if that, and laundry would maybe be done every two
weeks.
I had a
great experience. The people were so friendly and grateful for us, and
the biggest thing was it really made me feel appreciative for what I
have. I complain is my water is cold in the shower sometimes, if my food
sucks, or the room I'm living in is too hot. But you know what, some
people do this on a daily basis, for their entire lives. But they are grateful
that they are an independent country and happy for what they have. I met
some good people I worked with, taught some of the kids how to throw a football,
got schooled in some soccer, but it was so much fun and rewarding, two weeks I
won't forget.
I
attached some pictures with this. I think the file is too long, so if you
want more I can send them. Maybe I'll post some on Facebook. Also,
here is a link from the Aussie media, who was with us: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtFhvVS3xdU&feature=share.
Sorry it's long, just wanted to share. Hope everyone is doing well.