When Is Enough Enough?

I moved to Honduras 4 years ago this month.  It was supposed to be for just a year... while I figured out myself and my life.  After 6 months I knew it would be for more than that 1 year.  After 4 years I know I will retain some attachment to this island forever.

Today I had a conversation with an island born Honduran.  We were discussing why I stay... and how he feels I am different.  He said to me, "you understand our heart... and you seem to love this place as we do". It made me cry. Literally.  No more true thing could be said.

I do care about this place.  I care about the people, the culture, the struggle that they have.  I worry about them being taken advantage of by people who come to this island to see how they can benefit off the backs of these people.  

I have made life long friends as well as many acquaintances.  I would do for them, and they for me.  They expect nothing but a smile, a conversation, a moment now and then to share thoughts over a coffee, tea, or beer. 

I have learned to value the small things from these people.  And they make me question our societal values and norms.  When is enough enough?  Every year we try to make more money, buy more things, and we as Americans are overwhelmingly unhappy.  We are not a happy people.

When I leave the island is when this is the most apparent.  Our easy going way of life is not a thing in the USA.  The stress for people is something you immediately sense and feel.  And it makes me want to turn right back around to the island every time.

When is "enough" going to be enough for you?