MISS-COMMUNICATION
July 12, 2010
Jennifer Temmer

After having been disconnected to the outside world (read- no Internet, newspapers or television) for more than three weeks I have finally been able to make contact. My snazzy cell phone has helped in keeping me connected, however in a world of fast flowing information, we often forget what it was like not so long ago, to not be able to send and receive information in a matter of seconds. I am not typically a person who spends large amounts of time connected to the web, nor have I ever owned a TV. However, I do have to admit a small addiction to the CBC. Recently I found a radio in the CAUSE office in La Ceiba- this has been both a blessing and a curse. My radio is compact, and has some redeeming features that would put any other radio to shame- primarily a solar panel, a crank for energy at night, a light and a cell phone charger! (This conveniently charges the brand of cell phone I currently use). However, the radio itself is a bit lack luster. My kitchen, the only place in my house where there are chairs, is a dead zone for all technology- including most radio signals. The only FM radio station I receive is Radio Catholica out of the nearby town of Trujillo. This is fine, however my Garifuna still is not at an advanced enough level to understand the radio soap operas played in the afternoon. The AM stations are more numerous and interesting, however after a short period my ears ache from trying to decipher between music, dialogue and fuzz. Hence, I am normally overjoyed when I get a good signal and gravely disappointed otherwise.

As of late my life here in Ciriboya, although disconnected, has been anything but tranquil. There is never a moment where I find myself without something to do or someone to visit. I pass most of my free time cleaning, gardening and chatting with the neighbours. At times I have moments of panic- that of yearning to be back home enjoying summer with family and friends and moments later the thought of having to leave Ciriboya and all the wonderful people I will eventually have to leave behind. I am working toward something important here- a sense of community and belonging that goes beyond your everyday salutations in the street (in Ciriboya’s case, dirt path). I’m working towards meaningful conversations, sharing food and helping with tasks and a mutual understanding between individuals as to what it is that connects us to each other despite all of our obvious differences.