Lost and Found

Ever since I arrived in Buenos Aires nearly three months ago I have seen myself as a test dummy, a guinea pig of sorts. Since I've never lived abroad before for an extended period of time, let alone by myself, I thought it wise to see myself as a test subject. I decided to monitor Kyle's experiences, his thoughts and feelings, the changes that he undergoes, throughout his stay in Argentina. The road has often been difficult for Kyle. He has faced many uphill battles, he has faced uncertainty, the prospects of failure, isolation, at times loneliness, the dreaded possibility of boredom, the stresses of work, and the unknown that lies ahead.

In experiential learning Kyle is light years beyond where he was just a few months ago. In choosing to live abroad he has forced himself to live independently, to, in many instances, rely only on himself, and to turn to local friends for support and guidance when he's needed it. This touches on the superficial aspect of the learning. It doesn't delve deeply into the content of the experience.

Trying to wrap one's head around experience and explain it is like trying to explain to someone the inner workings of a clock when you yourself are not an expert. You have no trouble explaining what the different hands do or what the numbers all mean, but when it comes to how the hands move or how the chimes sound the hour you find it much more difficult. Just like a clock, Kyle finds it difficult to explain the inner workings of experience, especially when the value has only begun to manifest itself. This value will continue to grow in importance with time and continued reflection. Below are a few ideas Kyle has picked up along the way.

1. Never place a strong emphasis on plans in Argentina. They almost never go according to plan. Just abide (yes, like the dude) day by day and enjoy moment to moment, regardless of whether you do what you had intended to do.

2. The impromptu more often than not is the plan. What often seems like threadbare connections often lead to startling results. Allow these connections and results to happen and let go of the strict calendar of control.

3. Many are living to thrive, still more are living to survive. I met a friend last night, Ignacio, and mentioned to him the contrasts of seeing the executives in the business district walking by the man in rags lying in the street who looked if not dead, close to it. He told me this is survival capitalism. Argentina is a first world country that wants to be third world. The first world economic elements are in place, but the multitude of obstacles, lack of confidence or transparency in government, corruption,  and backward ways, all serve to hamper the efficiency and development of a stable and strong government and economy. This leads to extreme contrasts. Extreme wealth and extreme poverty side by side is just one example.

4. Never be surprised at what happens. If it occurs than it has always been in the realm of possibility. It is up to you to decide whether it is acceptable or not.

5. Nothing is more important than your own well being and the well being of others. Build a strong support network and work closely with it. Allow this network to cushion you in the difficult times and help prop it up in the better times. I've never given to a beggar on the street. It has often plagued my conscience when I have money but I fail to give any. The problem I have is that I don't know them. I don't know where my money will go or whether it is really solving anything. I would much rather teach a man to fish (e.g. by supporting a non-profit that teaches valuable, life-sustaining skills) than to give a fish and kick the can down the road some more.

I think Buenos Aires could use a few good non-profits to get people up on their feet again. There seems to be a lot of people with little hope, but I think a few good non-profits could help change that.