Eulanda’s Blog

“All journeys have secret destinations in which the traveler is unaware.” -Martin Buber

Did I learn anything while studying abroad? You better BELIZE it!

Through this opportunity partnering with local schools, community agencies in Belize, and Belizean university educators, I gained increased global literacy which will enable me to transfer knowledge that promotes holistic well-being as a multicultural counselor. I explored educational and behavioral health challenges that are shared by communities across the globe. In addition, I was able to see some of the major concerns of diverse rural populations and the impact of utilizing integrated, culturally-appropriate, behavioral health and educational services. Through this lens, my travel to Belize was not a destination, but a new way of seeing things as a multicultural counselor.

Come Explore Belize With Me!

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay home.” – James Michener

Pictures From Our Study Abroad Adventure

Day 1

Our first day was full of excitement get acclimated with the Belize arrival. From the airport arrival to the ride toward our first lodging accommodation there was great anticipation. The most memorable events of day one for me were noticing the small size of the airport upon our arrival in Belize and having an immediate and almost automatic reset in my brain in recognizing that “things are different” and will be for the next week. Secondly, I remember feeling a sense of exploration as we took the two-hour drive to Hopkins to our hotel accommodations. As we rode on the shuttle van, some of us slept while others looked out the window mesmerized by either the BEAUTIFUL and serene landscape or the poor (what most of us consider to be) living conditions in which Belizeans were living yet this was obviously their norm while we are spoiled in the United States. From the houses, to the landscape and crops, to the people that we saw as we looked out the window- it was clear we were in a place that felt new to us. It felt as if we rode in and out of “nice” living and “poor” living in a surreal way. Upon arrival at our Hopkins accommodations and exploring the site, it felt like a small taste of paradise. *Personal Note: I felt humbled that our breakfast was specially and personally prepared each morning. This mattered to me. In addition, at night as I walked the beach with colleagues, everything felt almost surreal due to the beauty and force of the waves, the beautiful sand and the constant flow of the Belize breeze from the Caribbean Sea! It felt like paradise! 

Day 2

This was our first day of service learning. After eating a lovely and tasty breakfast together while prepping for the day, we visited Holy Family RC (Roman Catholic) School in Hopkins. Learning by observation was great; however, we had a moment to explore and talk with the teachers to learn more about how the education system runs in Belize. My take-a-always from this day of service learning were (1) the fact that religion is taught daily and its importance during each day…the teachers and students start each day with prayer  (2) the majority of the children said “they LOVE coming to school because learning is FUN,” (3) the flexibility and freedom the teachers have each day/laid back atmosphere (4) most students officially graduate after 8^th grade and high school is not required (it’s more of a privilege for students who intend to attend college. (5) the independence that the students exhibit and how capable they are of doing things on their own. We all took a break for lunch which is customary because the students are allowed to walk home for lunch then return to school. We ate at Ella’s Cool Spot and the food was superb! Great food was pretty common here whenever it was prepared authentically by the natives. *Personal Note: Being immersed with the children of Belize, I felt my joy for teaching return (just a little) and I began to think “strongly” about teaching abroad. My roommate and I ventured out and met a native named Krishna who has built a small establishment which serves as a small herbal and spiritual healing sanctuary. While sitting and talking to him, I fell in love with the warm and positive spiritual energy of Belize.

We also visited the Garifuna community at Palmento Grove. This was a magnificent cultural immersion experience. It is a little difficult to write about the two cultural immersion experiences mainly because the experiences were deeply felt. It was as if you need to “feel it” to understand it. Part of the authenticity of this experience was that the presenter who educated us during our stay was not only Garifuna but he and his daughter run the Palmento Grove sanctuary together with family. While here, we (1) learned about the Garifuna culture receiving a deep and thorough history (2) wore authentic Garifuna clothing/attire while immersed in the culture (3) walked through the property learning about the plants and bush that grew there which brings all kind of healing (4) cooked an authentic Garifuna meal using many of the resources, crops, and food from the land (fish, plantains, herbs, etc… all grown/raised there). This day was significant because an important aspect of our trip was the emphasis on religion as it relates to counseling for natives. We were able to learn more about how religion is etched deeply in the roots here and further see how/why religious beliefs impact counseling. *Personal Note: I enjoyed the drum lesson we received afterwards. Two gentlemen gave us a drum tutorial. We were allowed to play with them, dance, laugh, have homemade Pina Colada and “feel” the Garifuna energy under the night sky, cool breeze, and sound of the sea.

Day 3

We visited the Mayan Community. Honestly, whatever I write here will not do justice to what we experienced and felt. THIS was the epitome of cultural learning exchange. We were welcomed into the home and very land of the Mayans. Upon our arrival, we were greeted with a ritual of incense burning by the women. We were then immediately taken up on a hill to take part in (be a part of) another ritual by the men and Shaman assistants who prayed for our prosperity, protection (and other things) symbolic with colored candles representative of the various aspects of the prayer. Incense were also used. After the prayer ritual, we prepared an authentic Mayan meal “together.” We learned SO much about the Mayan culture while we prepared the meal together. It was during this time that we were immersed in the culture in a way that made learning authentic. We shared personal stories of trauma, healing, and triumph. We were able to relate with each other on numerous levels. Some of us described it like a “family get-together” similar to what would probably be our traditional Sunday meal at grandma’s house. We ended the cultural immersion with a traditional dance together wearing Mayan attire. *Personal Note: As we shared stories, the Mayan women learned of my personal battle with autoimmune disease. The women were very gracious wanting to bring in a shaman to “lay hands” on me or prepare an herbal medicine for healing. They also suggested a healing massage. Unfortunately, I was not able to take advantage of a possible once in a lifetime offering; however, I fully understood the reasons why this could not take place (due to liability) and I will forever cherish the generous offering from the Mayan community. The women even asked for my contact information to stay in touch.

Day 4

Today was considered a “free day.” We did not have a scheduled cultural immersion event on our itinerary. Initially, we had a snorkeling excursion planned; however, due to choppy unsafe waters, we planned waterfall swimming. Personally, this was the highlight of my trip. Swimming in the pool beneath the natural waterfall during our excursion was a moment that truly grew me. This moment showed me the unlimited possibilities available when I take steps to explore without limits and to embrace what the world and its cultures provides. The moment was meaningful for me because swimming in the pool waters underneath a natural waterfall has been one of my bucket list items. I’ve never told this to anyone. I’ve never even prayed and asked God to make it happen for me; however, while in Belize God answered my unspoken prayer. In doing so, He reminded me that He cares about even the seemingly small, intricate details of my desires. Nothing compares to the cultural immersion experiences during my time in Belize. Those experiences were both educational and spiritual; however, swimming in the natural pool beneath this waterfall was the highlight of my trip because it was extremely personal, and a profoundly spiritual experience which I opened myself to because of my courageous decision to study abroad and embrace every aspect of the experience because it was all connected. What a rewarding experience and meaning moment!Today was considered a “free day.” We did not have a scheduled cultural immersion event on our itinerary. Initially, we had a snorkeling excursion planned; however, due to choppy unsafe waters, we planned waterfall swimming. Personally, this was the highlight of my trip. Later this evening, we were blessed to watch dancing and hear drumming from some students who shared several Garifuna dancing and drumming.

Day 5

Today we returned to Holy Family RC (Roman Catholic) School to follow-up then close out our initial visit. I found it very difficult to immerse myself on this visit. I didn’t like the fact that we had to leave and move on. I wanted to stay with the students for several days. Leaving them was difficult for me and almost felt unfinished and maybe even a little “professionally off.” Although we remained professional, the time constraint was difficult. As counselors, we are taught the importance of building rapport and being relational. To form an initial bond and build rapport then leave the individual after only two days was not an easy task for me. I was able to think about if this was a client and think of it form the view point of when a client discontinues services or moves on. There may not always be a closure experience. We also visited The Goldson House in Belmopan today. The Goldson House purpose is to serve as a museum and learning center to highlight and examine the life and contributions of Belizean National Hero, Philip Stanley Wiberforce Goldson. The Goldson House is actually the former residence of Philip Golson but it has been renovated to include a semi-permanent exhibit that features topics such as The Life and Time of Philip S.W. Goldson and The Independence Movement. We were thoroughly educated on this day as the presenter had a wealth of knowledge. We were also blessed by another drum experience from a man from the Maroon community. We had an beautiful opportunity to play the drums with him and his student.

Day 6

This morning was spent with the counselors and social workers of Belize City. We had a great opportunity of Learning Exchange to learn from counselors and social workers of Belize. It was a enjoyable hearing how their programs work and what their responsibilities entail. We were able to truly learn from each other, exchange information, share information, and even explore similarities and differences in US customs in our career versus theirs. We shared an activity with their service workers and then we wrapped the activity up together. It was nice to learn how much we do that is the same although we were in a totally different country with a different yet similar culture. We also visited the University of Belize for another learning exchange. Hearing similarities in our college programs was interesting. One of the main differences was the low cost of tuition in Belize. We enjoyed being able to sit and learn rather than having to present on this day. This day was also significant because an emphasis of our trip was the “learning exchange aspect” which occurred here in a beautiful way of unity.

Day 7

Today, we visited The Inspiration Center in Belize City. The Inspiration Center is a non-governmental organization in Belize City that provides various therapy and health services to children with disabilities and their families. It is the only organization to offer low-cost, comprehensive therapy and medical services to children with disabilities (birth to 16 years old) in the country of Belize. The children they serve have little access to therapy services at affordable rates and The Inspiration Center strives to remain available to all families, regardless of financial background. They are unique because of their holistic approach to treatment.

This was another beautiful day of learning exchange. What I enjoyed most about this day was our chance to hear from every day parents and clients of what they come to counseling (social services) for and how they are/are not being supported. So much of what these parents shared are issues and concerns shared by clients, parents, and families in the US.

Day 8

Time to go home and I am not ready. Today was bitter sweet. From my study abroad experience, I have grown as a counselor and as an individual. I am more open to others and their culture. I am more adaptable and flexible. I have gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for other cultures. My world and mind have been opened. I have begun to rethink and explore different career paths. Ultimately, I have a new mindset about the beauty, character development, and personal & professional growth of embracing others with an open heart and mind. I have a deeper appreciation for the phrase “listen to understand” rather than “listening to respond.” I am truly interested in understanding, appreciating, and valuing the life and cultures of others and being more purposeful and intentional about what I can learn from others rather than what they can learn from me.

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