When I was in Jarabacoa translating for a medical mission, I noticed how eager the American doctors were to make a positive difference. They had traveled a long way from Colorado Springs and invested a lot of time and resources to be there. At the same time, I sensed a different mindset compared to the doctors I met on a previous mission in Monte Cristi.
Some of them talked about how challenging the working conditions were and how hard it must be for patients to live with those challenges every day. A few mentioned concerns about possible drug or gang activity in the area, even though that wasn’t something I personally observed. They also reflected on how grateful they felt for the comforts they enjoy back home.
Hearing these comments made me think about how the patients themselves may not dwell on these disadvantages as much as the visitors imagined. Sometimes, pointing out these differences can unintentionally make local Dominicans seem less proud or more burdened than they really are.
Living in the Dominican Republic has also made me realize how unlucky we are compared to Dominicans in many ways.
