A few years ago, I downloaded a free Itunes song by Juanes (one of Colombia's most famous musical exports) called Mala Gente-- "bad people". Well, two weeks ago I had an encounter with some mala gente that has led to my prolonged blog absence. Let me explain...
Last Friday night, (Friday the 13th!) while my roommate, host mom and I were home, five people broke into our home and robbed us. They took many things that were important to us-- from our computers and cameras right down to our hiking shoes. It was probably one of the scariest experiences of my life and I hope it never happens again.
Now of course, many people's reaction to this has been to point fingers on Colombia. She has a reputation especially in the US that is hard to escape. But I'll set the record straight right now, it was simply bad people. Mala gente are everywhere around the world. In huge cities like Bogota and in quiet backyards in New Hampshire. It's a horrible reality, but it can't be ignored.
So after the scariest 40 minutes of my life, the robbers left and my life here in Bogota was changed for good. That night my roommate Emilie and I moved to a hotel and were immediately supported by the WorldTeach family near and far. On Sunday we officially moved out of our house with Luz, and I moved in with a fabulous couple that is a part of WorldTeach- Dave and Mary Rae (more on them later). Emilie's dad flew down from Miami and they decided Emilie would be best at home in the US for now. I took a few days off from school, and Mom and Dave flew down last Thursday (as they had previously planned) to spend the week with me. Since last Thursday, I have spent the time playing tour guide for Mom and Dave and also trying to move on.
This process is absolutely going to be a long one. Tonight, I begin my search for a new home and continue my search for a new normal here. Even though those people took many things from me, it is not about their material value. I am thankful that night was not any worse and I will not let them defeat me.
Emilie and I both agree that even though now everything has changed, we will not let this define our experience here in Colombia. Colombians are some of the most generous and kind people I have ever known. They want their country to prosper and be rid of the violent and criminal reputation that does not represent this culture.
This explains my absence and please know that as things "return to normal" here I keep you updated. I could not honestly portray my experience here if I did not write the bad with the good and include every sense of my reality here. Life is good here and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now. That Friday the 13th was a horrible day, but I have many more great days ahead of me. You will hear from me again soon!
Much love,
Kate
omg kate! i am so glad you are ok! how scary. you are so right though, there are bad people everywhere and it could have just as easily happened in the US. it's harder to have it happen somewhere else though because you don't have all the resources that you normally would. what a wonderful response from your family, friends and community, though. i admire your outlook on the event- you are such a strong, amazing woman!
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