Robin Hood Effect?

Steal from the rich, give to the poor?  Or something like that.  Well, I was reminded of that concept just the other day.  Everybody knows that there are drugs here.  Most people know who sells.  You can usually tell by their fancy cars, etc.   But earlier this week there was a giant drug bust.  Really, they were only after one guy, but apparently he was wanted in the States and so there were helicopters (plural) and shooting and FBI and all of that.  Right here in Xela.  They caught the guy, and I think sent him back to the states to be prosecuted.
Kind of shocking.  But as I said, its common knowledge that there are drugs here.  There are drug busts every so often.  The interesting thing about this case, was that one of the teachers who has lived here many years made a comment about how many Guatemalans are sad that this guy got arrested.  They all were aware that he sold drugs.  However, he was well known for his generosity.  Apparently he gave thousands of dollars to the poor and needy.  He donated lots to many charities.  And the people that benefited from his kindness are disappointed.  Kind of shakes up the way you think about things a little.  Doing something wrong, yet to the benefit of others.  Stealing from the rich to give to the poor, mas o menos.  When really, there are so many people that are "doing the right thing" and yet selfishly store up for themselves.   Completely oblivious or unconcerned about the tremendous amount of need and hurt in the world around them.   Not to shake the finger--I do it to.  Its just interesting the things you can learn from a wanted drug dealer.
In other news, today was April Fool's Day.  We, of course, celebrated at school.  The elementary teachers had planned a little trick ahead of time.  We all got our classes settled in the morning, as usual, and then had said that at 8:05 we would tell our students that we needed to use the bathroom and would be right back.  All teachers met outside and then dispersed to each others classrooms.  We walked into our "new" class, pretending like nothing had happened.  And when questioned, insisted that we were their teacher.   Some teachers gave their new classes tricky quizzes that they said were for a grade.  I went to the first grade class and gave a fake spelling test with really hard words-- the last four being....did, I, fool, you.   So fun.  Especially since I know that will be the class I will have next year. 
The power was out for the last hour at school today.  Not the first time that has happened either.  When in Guatemala!  I guess a little April Fools for the teachers too.
So, so glad it is Friday though.  Up for the weekend-- girls night among the female staff and a wedding on Sunday!  Should be fun!

Here are some extra photos from last weekend-- once again stolen from others...



Down in the cellar of Tertuliano's



Delicious strawberry/lime drinks at La Sastreria-- a new cafe discovery.  If you sit with your back to the window you'd think you were in the states.