I believe that in life we adapt a lot to different circumstances:  cultures, climates and other different factors. Yet, sometimes we adapt so quickly that it is easy to enter into a routine!

When I was assigned to Peru 18 years ago, a few years after my ordination, I felt that God had given me a unique opportunity.  Initially, it was a painful process of being born again in a new culture, after leaving family, friends, and my home country.  I knew it was not going to be for a short time, but probably for the rest of my life.

However, I have always felt that God keeps his word. Looking back I feel delighted working here with the poor of Peru as a humble servant in His service.  Here I have the opportunity to be very close to people and close to the experience of our Founder in a life marked by service and simplicity.

If there is something I regret, it is that initially, I did not have enough patience with the people.  I remember a story from my early days here which makes me smile at the memory! 

I had three Masses scheduled for an afternoon. The first one was a funeral at 2 pm. They did not show up as I waited at the church.  At 2.30 I sent the altar boy to tell them that if they didn’t come within five minutes, I would not be doing the funeral.  The altar boy ran the short distance and came dashing back with the family in tow, coffin bobbing up and down along the way!  They rushed into the church and we started the service.  I told them that they had run with the poor soul so hard, that they had nearly re-awakened him.  We spent the rest of the funeral smiling rather than crying!

Looking back, I have learnt from these people, to become gentler, kinder, and hopefully more compassionate.