As we near the end of of our GSE experience here on the island of Hispa?ola, we are torn between not wanting to leave and the need to reunite ourselves to the lives we left behind (except for those fortunate ones who are continuing their adventures. That is, everyone but me!). Already we are questioning how we, the group, can adequately share to what we have been witness.

How has this experience influenced how we will live when we return? Or how it may change we see and operate in our placers of work? The way we view the world now? The way we see Rotary as an organisation?

In the last few days we have been to Santiago, the Republic?s second largest city. The city?s iconic monument, the Monument de Heroes de Resoracion de la Republic, is as large as its name.

Originally built by the treacherous dictator, Trujillo, it was going to be a dedication to himself. In 1961, before it weas completed, it became a monument for the struggle for independance. Why the change in dedication? It was the year Trujillo was assassinated. A happy day for the people, to be sure. Not so good for Trujillo.

We visited a children?s hospital, which Rotary supports, as well as the state-of-the-art Pontifica Universidad Madre y Maestro university. The Centro Leon is a must-see for anyone coming here, as it is about the best display of the people, through art, in the country.

We presented twice in Santiago, and for most of us, our Spanish is improving through hard work and avid attention. Another two or three months here and we should be speaking fluently.

We have stayed in La Romana, east of Santo Domingo, and experienced Rotary in a different way. We are currently in Higuey, and are travelling to San Pedro de Macoris Tuesday to present the night before we leave. Talk about being utilised till the last second!

Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, and we hope that you are keeping safe. It is in the back of our minds that our fellowship is drawing to an end, and the feelings are mixed. Each member of my team has brought such a rich colour to my time here, it will be hard to return to life without them close by.

Until our presentations to our clubs,

Simon Goss
GSE Team Member
(and team mascot) Higuey
Dominican Republic