[This is part of a chalk mural that is just outside of the office.]

Last week, I was walking to CEMUJER at 9:39am for my 10am start and I got a phone call from the office asking me to wait until 2pm to come in because everyone was away from the office all morning. I slowed down my quick pace and headed towards the Pollo Campero to pass the time. I ordered a milkshake and opened a newspaper. It is suprising how many articles there are about violent crimes.

When I finally arrived at CEMUJER, they were all very friendly and welcoming. My first couple days at CEMUJER I did a lot of waiting and listening. They have an interesting habit of eating lunch together everyday. They collect a dollar from each person and somehow make a meal out of that for everyone. During lunch (which happens at a very late hour of the afternoon) I listened especially when the conversation to to stories about the war.

It is fascinating how easily the conversation moves towards stories of the war. I have listened as the stories come out. I have so much to learn. The circumstances were confusing enough for the people that lived through it. I’m sure it will take a lot more for me to understand even a little bit of what happened here. I look forward to telling some of these stories.