4 hrs, 4.3 kms
Day Totals: 16 hrs, 4 .3 kms

As I approach the Atlantic side of St Vincent, the upscale villas gradually fade and the regular, basic metal roof houses start again. I wonder what goes through people's minds when they see their former neighbors returning from abroad and building these beautiful mansions. Does it give the illusion that moving abroad is an automatic key to paradise?

In Morocco, many people go to Europe to spend their lives in cramped apartments in run down neighborhoods, meanwhile building huge houses in Morocco that just sit there empty. It's all about the image--to look prosperous is more important than actually being prosperous, and people will go to great lengths and expense to give the impression of prosperity.

This can have a dangerous side effect. I know of a young man who had a perfectly decent life and job in his native country, and left it all to chase after that "guaranteed prosperity" abroad--only to find that that dream was more of a nightmare . Then he was too embarrassed to go back and hear the disdainful remarks "You went abroad and you're not rich?! what's wrong with you?"

I wonder if this happens a lot here in St Vincent. I ponder on this as I gaze out over a small industrial park in the village of Diamond. Does this place offer any real opportunities for a better future for young folks here?

As I reach the next town of Stubbs, I will find my answer. I go into a large store to get myself a popsicle and directions, and am asked the familiar question,

"Where are you from?" A young fellow asks in an American accent.

"Pennsylvania"

"Where exactly? I studied at State College!"

Brett then goes on to tell me his extraordinary story. "I finished college there, got married and settled down there . But I started to realize that it's so much more exciting to work in a developing country rather than a developed one."

OK, you've got my attention.

He continues. "In America, growth is flat. There's only so much you can do there. Here in St Vincent, development is just getting started and there's so much opportunity for growth. There's so much that can be done here--and I realized I wanted to be a part of that adventure." He points to the new airport being built, just a stones throw away. "This airport is going to bring huge changes to this country... That's why I decided to move back here with my family"

I'm inspired by his enthusiasm. Definitely a "glass half full" kind of guy--seeing the things that this country is missing a as an opportunities rather than a depressing obstacle. "So what are some of your projects?" I ask

"I'd like to creat scholarships for young people to study here in St Vincent, to gain the skills needed to develop our country"

Hopefully we can stay in touch, so I can hear how this project works out. I ask to take his picture...

"Give me a philosophical look" I ask.

And on that upbeat note, I end my day hike. I didn't quite connect to my Mesopotamia hike, but it has been a very meaningful day.