Weight

I have lost 26 pounds since coming to Albania 3 months ago.  I think it is noteworthy, though I cannot articulate precisely why.  I was a heavy teenager, but I lost most of what I wanted to lose in my early twenties.  I would feel better about reaching this particular low point if I thought I had bottomed out, but I think I have further yet to go.  I find that I am sweating far less than I was a few weeks ago, which is a nice benefit to trimming down.

Today we spent most of our energies placing the first of the 201 concrete border pieces we took possession of yesterday.  Each piece weighs about 90 pounds.  They might be heavier than that.  In the States there are machines which extrude concrete in its proper “curb” shape, in place.  I have not used one of these machines, but I can appreciate the idea of them more each day.  I think it will take about 8 days to place all of the pieces we have.  Fortunately the scope of the project is large enough that I can find distractions from this particular task in the planning and implementation of other phases of work.  The crew had better harmony today than yesterday.  I think Pierin is starting to feel like part of the crew.  In any work situation there is a period of time when the person most recently added to a party can sense that they are expendable and unwelcome.  Both of these things are, of course, true.  A new person is dangerous both to his employer and the existing employees.  One can not help but feel the precarious nature of this and react in some way.  You never really know who a person is or will be at work until about one to five weeks in.  I like Pierin, which is not essential to his success as part of this crew, but it helps.

He is quick to take notice of what needs to be done next and quick to respond to that need.  The first thing he ever asked me was how many years I had.  After hearing my response he said “And a hundred more.”  No one has ever said that to me before.  I am looking forward to continuing the work tomorrow.  It is good to be around people who are invested in your success and have respect for the work you have undertaken.

I don’t know if it is the sun, the fruits of the field, the milk, or the companionship which has me feeling so good.  I am thankful to God for their effect on my heart.  You owe it to yourself to come and taste the Albanian sky.