Chelsea Brage..............Life in Parnaiba and Parc es stefan

Hi Everyone,
since the groups arrival in Parnaiba, Piaui in early July, i have been struck by the immense cultutral & social differences between Ireland and Brazil.The attitude towards those who live in favelas or slum areas is particularly shocking. we were told that a person who lived in these areas would be recognised by the way they looked or the way they dressed. if they ever entered a supermarket for the middle classes, employees or guards are told to keep an eye on them or refuse them entry. Their reality and situation is deeply saddening and it made worse by the general attitude to those on the fringes of society and below the poverty line.

On the other side of the coin, Brazilians are really ´Gung Ho´ and euthiastic and happy about life and very friendly. They readily welcome strangers into their community and their kindness can be seen in other our interactions with them especially on the building site and with local builders.

My birthday occured during the religious festivities that were happening in the town which was really cool. it was also the night when the group were officially welcomed to the community at Mass in the town. During the Mass the Priest called us up to the altar and the whole community welcomed and prayed for us. Then Diarmuid told them it was my birthday and hundreds of people sang happy birthday to me. standing in front of the congregation was overwhelming and the kind welcome was second to none.

this is one birthday i will never forget and was without doubt one of the most amazing experiences in my life.

keep us in your thoughts and prayers

Chelsea braga