Day One

A tree growing through the roof of  building, many diverse forms of transportation, all buildings are locked up or gated, there is lots of graffiti and political signage, very few buildings are more than 2 stories high, houses and businesses have colourful doors, the vegetation is lush, street vendors & buskers, interesting sounding birds.....

These were among the many first impressions identified by members of the Restorative Justice Learning Tour in Nicaragua.  Our day was full of information - about MCC Nicaragua and about the history of this country.

The operative word with MCC Nicaragua seems to be "partnerships." Lloyd Kuhns gave an excellent overview of all the work MCC is connected with here.  The 1972 earthquake in Managua was the catalyst for MCC becoming present in Nicaragua.  In 1983 a permanent office was opened in Managua with a strong emphasis on peace.

Norman, a recent university graduate and former Ivep'er provided a great overview of his country - helping us understand some of the historical and political factors which have shaped Nicaragua.  Things became a bit more real this afternoon when we visited many significant places in Managua.  We soon grew accustomed to the gentle but not so sublte tug on the arm from a child begging for money or wanting to sell us something as we gazed upon Revolution Square and many other sites.

Reflecting on our first day, it is already a bit challenging to retain all that we've seen and heard.  Looking at the itinerary, it all feels just a bit daunting!  We will be seeing and hearing a lot in the coming days.  We are off to a great start in Nicaragua!!