let's get ready to rumble

Yesterday, I had a talking to by my manager. My original 4-month stint is coming to an end, and he wanted to ensure that I was adequated prepared for my trip to Haiti. As part of that, he wanted to remind me that traveling to Haiti is not a "vacation." Here's some quotes:

• "The rescheduled elections will happening on Sunday."
  Translation - when the results come out people may be getting wild.
• "We cannot guarantee anything, but we trust that Fonkoze will able to handle any situation that arises."
  Translation - If the shit hits the fan, we can't help you. But, the folks you are staying with have seen this before and will know what to do.
• "Here's my phone number in case something happens."
  Translation - If the shit does hit the fan, give me a call. I can't help you, but I'd like to at least know what is going on.
• "Carry cash in different pockets. At least if you get robbed, you will have other money to rely on since ATMs are rare."
  Translation - Expect to get robbed. Just have a back up plan.

Despite all of the warnings, I already knew the dangers of traveling to the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. But as I told them, as long as I don't open my mouth, most people think I am a native. How often does it happen that having dark skin is considered an asset in general society? Haha! My response is that I have taken/plan to take the appropriate actions: registered with the embassy, withdrawn cash, plan to travel light, and not bring anything that will bring attention to me. So, as long as folks continue to hear from me via this blog, we can all safely assume that I am doing just fine in the tropics.

Wish me well!