15 Comments

Few things more thought provoking - and gratitude inducing - than the third world. Great post!

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Thanks, Sam!

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Wonderfully written, Eric. I've been to developing countries (Haiti, Cambodia) so I can relate to much of what you're describing. It's an intense experience, for sure.

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Oh wow! I bet those were eye opening experiences! Thank you, Jeanne!

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Wow!! This sounds like INCREDIBLY HARD work. And in the heat! And with illness-laden mosquitoes buzzing about! I loved your description of the places, the people, and the way you "sucked water from the plastic pouches only for it to fall right out through your skin." I think my throat shriveled up a little in sympathy!

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Haha! That was by far the most I've sweated in my life! My pant legs were soaked through and dripping into my boots!!

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Hats off to you for being willing to sweat THAT MUCH in service of others 🙏🙏

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I hate to say this because you're mainly a landscape photographer but, I think your photos of humans in this post are stunning. My favorites: The old lady and the sleeping dog.

I have an affinity for local life in developing countries and have a post or two that I'd like to share in the future of life "in the ghettos" of Jamaica. These types of experiences are priceless.

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That means a lot, Kristi! I actually like taking candid and natural light portraits, I just don't get many opportunities. I'll have more in one of the next parts of this series.

The small scenes of local life in these areas is fascinating to me. Id love to read about your experiences in Jamaica!

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I'm here for it! Can't wait for the rest of this series!

And you've inspired me...I think I'll go out on a limb and post my most popular ghetto story on Wildhood this week. I'll make sure to tag you for the inspiration!

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Haha! Most popular ghetto story!!! I can't wait!

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The shovelling and wheelbarrowing would have been hard enough.

But instant coffee made in a bottle of lukewarm-cold water? Ouch.

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Ahahaha! Our priorities are funny, aren't they?! I would have been fine with no a/c or shower at all, but I was NOT going without coffee! 🤣

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Great story and photos Erik - sounds like tough going!

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It was challenging, for sure, but having experience backpacking helped a lot. Having air conditioning in the room at night felt like cheating! 😆

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