Let me begin by saying I am not a resident there in Akumal and do not know the full details of things that occurred in the past, things that should of or could have been done better or differently, etc. so I cannot comment with authority on certain things. But, because I do care for Akumal and its future, because I know there is a reason that I have made this community a very important part of my personal journey in life, this is in part why I make these statements now. Let the focus be on the here and now and establishing a firm foundation for the future! I would like to personally thank Laura B. Wolfe for so very many things but especially for her most recent communications concerning past, current and future developments for Akumal. These statements detail many dynamics of several community concerns that so many have had or been misinformed about or have simply made their own conclusions about. Laura, your courage to compose this statement and your dedication and obligation to the community is commendable. I admire your passion as well as your sincerity, thank you and Akumal thanks you! Over the past two trips this year to Akumal, I have learned of the many changes that have happened in recent months within the CEA infrastructure and other issues there in the community. Effective communication is slowly beginning with the community as a whole and their participation and support is so important. It is not an easy task, but by involving more community leaders, businesses and key individuals who do want to see a positive and sustainable future for Akumal, this CAN and will in time become a reality. And as much as some things are caught up in either local resistance, government issues or just plain ignorance, other positive changes are clearly starting to happen there… whether certain people want to believe it or not or choose to dwell on the past and continue their campaign of misery. Even though I dont live there, (my family owns property however), I try to be as involved as I can, particularly so with things that my participation in can possibly make a difference. After all, even coming down twice a year for 3 weeks each trip does put my footprint there. I keep informed through those who are involved who serve on boards and committees and have been very vocal in emphasizing that critical changes need to happen. As stated in previous videos posted on various forums, through other readily available information and in the most recent series of video profiles of the various program coordinators of CEA, many initiatives by local business owners, community leaders and key individuals are in place and continually growing and evolving. Eco-friendly building practices, the beginnings of projects to improved sewage treatment and disposal methods, improved and effective garbage management and recycling programs AND an effective campaign to educate tourists and locals about environmental stewardship are key and have already been implemented and continued efforts are progressing. I have been fortunate to learn even more about additional strategies in the works in several areas by taking the time to do so via several key individuals, inquiring and further educating myself. Additionally, it is so important that especially those who are in fact residents there are committed to not only educating themselves, but also coming together to help advocate positive change one step at a time. It is not a perfectly run machine...we all know that. But like anything that hasnt been working, you diagnose the problems, acquire the tools and use methods to repair it or even better, enhance its performance so it CAN be operating at a greater efficiency. Of the above mentioned issues, sewage treatment and improvement to that is one of the most complicated of course. Remember that CEA is not the deciding or governing body concerning this or has the authority to with the “stroke of a pen” magically make these things just happen as some people are so quick to assume. This is a critical project that only compounds daily, certainly affecting many other areas of obvious concern. However on a positive note, I have seen marked improvements with not only the garbage management but also am so pleased to witness the implementation of separation recycling bins in the public areas of town. Serious commitments by so many property owners, businesses of all sorts are indeed happening to join in recycling efforts and also community cleanup. As we know, there are a lot more issues and complications that have developed and slowly and as effectively as possible, they are being addressed one issue at a time. In regards to the local people of Akumal Pueblo, I have seen changes and improvement in the dynamics of communication with them and that is slowly but surely improving. It is critical to moving forward as they are as affected by growth and change as anyone else is. Despite what some people think and want to conclude, not all of the locals are uneducated, uncaring or completely part of the problem as I have heard many people state in the past. This is their home also and there are more business owners and advocates from the pueblo having a positive voice more than ever before. Many, many local people do care, believe me and they deserve to and should have a voice. It is not an easy task at times but progress is happening in many respects. Additionally, new and exciting educational programs in many forms through CEA have been and are being further developed for 2015, the local library, an important resource for the local children and community is growing and evolving and certainly one that is dear to my heart, the progression and successes of Expedition Akumal and the Coral Restoration Project are just a few examples of effective campaigns that are making an impact. I have also witnessed other visible and marked changes in engaging with guests and tourists at the dive shops and restaurants, etc., taking the time to make sure that people are educated and informed as to policies of the Akumal Bay as one example. As more and more businesses adopt these practices and apply them, again it is good for all. I would encourage anyone who is truly open to broadening their education, interested in gaining FACTUAL knowledge and having their questions and concerns addressed, to network with CEA, Laura B. Wolfe, project leaders for Expedition Akumal or other representatives from the community. Whatever efforts and initiatives that ARE being done at this moment are nothing but positive steps towards preserving the future of Akumal, ecologically and otherwise. If people really want to make a difference, first and foremost, be generous and reach out to help with what some say they love so much by not only furthering your own education but use that to inform others. Dedicate some of your time or monetary donation if preferred to further a project that touches your heart or just means that much that you make a small difference in a very meaningful place. Use your voice positively...It is natural to want to criticize, condemn and complain. These changes and developments are many in Akumal and have touched all of our lives personally... and some people are sad, some are beyond angry. The fueling of rumor, untruths and supporting disparaging remarks such as “I heard this” and “did you hear that” are certainly ineffectual dialogue and does nothing to better ourselves not only, but it also does absolutely nothing to improve the situation. As a good friend of Akumal once told me as it pertains to his dedication and commitment to all he believes in there and his hope for a better future, you either “lead, follow, or get out of the way”…and it is so true. Focus on the future because the present is already here. To those who would choose to be a part of that future, no one promises things will ever go smoothly, free of incident or obstacle. There is a definite dedication and commitment to make changes and improve on what has failed in the past and I for one am hopeful for a brighter future! In closing, if some individuals are so truly fed up, disappointed or otherwise done or “over” Akumal, then by all means you should travel elsewhere where it will be more satisfying and beneficial for you. That is not said to start a firestorm of response, mind you...it is just clear that the level of disappointment and disgust over some issues and changes there has touched some in a negative way that is beyond all hope of repair. Like some of the most wonderful relationships in life, sometimes they must come to an end...and we all move on to other situations or conditions that will benefit our lives in a better way. Other times, we stay, persevere and work on repairing or restoring something that we feel is worth saving. Rising to those challenges takes courage, passion and dedication. Neither decision is wrong. My challenge to anyone reading this is to either be a part of the future solution and have a true and beneficial voice or just be content with what you believe in your heart to be the facts and move on to something that you feel will be more worthy and meaningful to your life. It is indeed a big world with many wonderful places to see, things to offer. So may God bless and watch over you always in your travels! **In the video interview with Amanda Baye, the current coordinator of the CEA Communications and Volunteer Program, she quotes Margaret Mead, American born cultural anthropologist and women’s rights activist…I could not agree more. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world…indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. https://youtube/channel/UCxkMY_fWeLziqYy8vqONKmA
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 04:41:12 +0000