John Little – OmegaShock.com

 

I don’t like the idea that there are so few voices out there – that describe ways to escape what is coming, and serve the Lord while they are doing it. My own experience and understanding are just that – mine. What the Lord wants for you may be entirely different, and I do NOT want to get in the way of God’s direction in your life.

 

So, when Alexandra Devereaux reached out to me with her own experience in relocation, I jumped on the chance to provide you with another voice, of someone who was obedient to the calling of the Lord. The Lord may lead you in a different direction than Alexandra’s, but I hope that her story will motivate you to submit to God’s hand in your life.

 

Her article is titled:

 

Are you contemplating relocation?

 

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Are you contemplating relocation?

 

Relocation can be a bit tricky if you do not do your homework thoroughly. It also requires knowing yourself, knowing what you can tolerate, and what you cannot. But, in these coming times, know that you are going to have to “Stretch” that tolerance and faith to a point of near breaking, as nothing will be as it ever has been before. However, the single most important aspect before considering relocation, is your communication with the Holy Spirit. Perhaps you have not given it any thought so far, or are struggling with the idea presently. Well, I assure you, turning this decision over to the Lord, as I did, is your best option, as He alone knows what path is best for you. After reading this article, you will realize it may not be easy, but if you are truly to be in some other place, the Lord will take you there. As proof of that statement, I offer to you, my personal story of a journey of “Obedience” to the Lord, after being told by the Holy Spirit to leave the U.S.

 

Following The Holy Spirit

 

Back in 2005, I vividly remember the message I received from the Holy Spirit. I was being told I was going to leave the U.S., a country where I was born and raised. That was an astounding and confusing message to say the least. But, because I had been a flight attendant for 20 years, travel was not such a foreign idea. But, living outside of the only home I had ever known, well, that was a horse of a different color! I pondered that idea for 3 days. I prayed, hoping I was going to be told it was just a mistake, but no such thing, I was going to have to go! Obedience,that is what the Lord wanted from me. I did not even know why I had to go at the time. I always wondered over the course of all these many years, why I had to go to so many countries to find the one He chose for me? But, I suppose I am answering that question right now, as I write this article for the benefit of all of you, to impart all that I learned. Oh Lord, how you paved my way!

 

I began to accept this cup, which I now knew was not going to pass from me, and decided I would not waste any more time before looking for that singular land He wanted for me. With that thought, I began my research, followed by actually travelling to all the countries I felt had potential. Each time I ventured out, I was certain that God was going to make this easy by pointing me in the right direction. After all, I was doing what He wanted of me, right? Alas, that was not to be the case.

 

In the beginning, I was not as savvy about what was the most important criteria, as you will note. As time went on, I became more cogent to the need for “Safety” as a primary aspect, as opposed to some of the superficial criteria I had initially sought. Don’t get me wrong, I know it is a complicated and emotionally draining process as you boil down the basic top needs you require before even contemplating a move out of the U.S. But safety cannot be compromised!

 

Once you realize that our dear country, the U.S., is the bulls-eye, you are caught between a rock and a hard place in your mind. You know you must leave, but your heart tugs at your memory bank, while the “Normalcy Bias” kicks in. No doubt about it, it is gut-wrenching! As the world digresses, you will see that choosing a “Safe Haven” country is like the 3 reasons you apply to buying real estate, “Location, location, location!” So keep this in the fore-front of your mind as we sojourn to my final destination, which might be yours too!

 

The Big Nudge

 

I happened to be watching CNBC one morning, when the regulars brought on some V.P. from a company called, “Jefferies International.” They were still yawning and drinking their coffee when this guy, Stephen (last name withheld) just shocks the heck out of everyone. He started talking about the “Amero” dollar! What… the what? Whoa Nellie!! The fuzzy slippers flew off, as I choked on my coffee!

 

At that time, this was not on any one’s radar, so Stephen became a very intriguing interview. To make a long story short, yep, I decided I was going to find that fellow and contact him. (What chutzpa I had!) After a short search on the net, I found his company, called, and presto, I am on a Tye-line to London. “What would I say? Oh, hello? Yes, you don’t know me but…” Well, that’s how it went. I was so original. He took my call to my amazement, and proceeded to spend some 25 minutes imparting a great deal of knowledge to me that would later prove to be invaluable. Little did I know at the time, that was the beginning of the Holy Spirit sending me down the Autobahn.

 

Choices Reduced

 

Because of this very conversation, the choices of relocation were whittled down considerably. Europe was out, Canada was out, Russia was out, Mexico and most of Central America were out, New Zealand and Australia were iffy, all islands were crossed off the list, leaving some of South America. And if you want to go to China, start learning Mandarin. Right, I have enough trouble with English.

 

Panama

 

So I headed for Panama City. It was Central America, but I was going to give it a shot, because at that time, Panama was the darling of some international relocation companies and financial groups specializing in off-shore investing. They had a machine going on down there. Construction was fast and furious. Trump was in Panama City, scores of high-rise condos were going up faster than one could imagine.

 

But Panama City holds 2/3’s of the total population of Panama’s 3 million people, so I felt that the city was not an appropriate place. I moved on to a very small town called Boquete. It is on the other side of the country, just 35 miles from the Costa Rican border. I had heard of a very unique community called Valle Escondido, built by Sam Taliaferro. (Sam has since gone to be with the Lord) He told me that he had been inspired by Doug Casey, of “Casey Research.” Doug had encouraged him to sell his semi-conductor company in Costa Rica and build a “Safe-Haven” community.

 

Sam built a beautiful little paradise, within a small valley surrounded by mountains. Very lovely homes were ensconced along the mountainsides, some on the valley floor. An array of well-designed condos and town homes were built by the entrance. This was all tied together with a 9-hole golf course, a little village of shops and restaurants, an equestrian center and a first-class clubhouse with an impressive indoor swimming pool. All were neatly kept, and very attractive. We sauntered into the town. Unfortunately it wasn’t much, especially for spoiled North Americans. But the true problem was that it rains so much in Panama, there are often flash floods, landslides, collapsing roads, loads of mold and well, you get the picture. But I have to say, the coffee gets a 5-star rating! Nonetheless, I knew this was not the place.

 

Ecuador

 

Where next?

 

After reading about Ecuador, and the fact that gasoline was a $1.00 a gallon, an important criteria that grabbed my attention, I booked a flight, packed a bag, and was on my way to Quito. Nice flight on LAN Airlines. As a former flight attendant, I couldn’t help but notice that this was a first-class operation. I was booked at the Swiss Hotel in downtown, where I was to attend a seminar on all things Ecuadorian.

 

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador and its surrounding neighborhoods, (ghettos) encompass a population of nearly 13 million. I knew if this country was going to hold any promise, I would have to find an area with less density.

 

After 3 days of real estate salesmen and propaganda, I ventured out to the North, to a town called Cotacachi. It was a small town consisting of a nice array of restaurants, shops, spectacular leather goods, which were so inexpensive. One could not also help but notice how lovely, and friendly the people were. The cobblestone streets were very sound, as most of Ecuador has a very well-built road system. I went to see some newer housing communities. The units themselves were adequate, but they were built around abandoned properties or shacks surrounding the properties. Then, I asked about the two mountains flanking the town. “Oh si,” said our guide, these are our 2 majestic volcanoes. Volcanoes? Oh no! So, exit, stage left.

 

I went South to Cuenca, a bustling town of 500,000 people. The food was great. The water is drinkable from the tap, and the weather was cool at night and sunny in the day. Nice, yet again, too much density. So, I meandered over to see the coast. When I arrived, I was expecting light sandy beaches, but found that the sand was blackish. That came from, yes, the volcano activity at one time! Hmmm.

 

Well, I proceeded to Bahia de Carraquez, a tiny peninsula on the Pacific Coast. It was a small fishing village with some okay condos, a miniature yacht club, (sort of) and the best cheap lunch I ever ate, half of a chicken, rice, beans and a drink for $1.50! Between the food and the gasoline prices, and their coffee, I awarded a few gold stars to Ecuador, but the rampant socialist political climate, the volcanoes, the broken economic and banking systems, and the fact that Ecuador was using the dollar like Panama, quickly led me to determine that this was also not the land God had intended for me. So, “No to Ecuador!”

 

Colombia

 

Back home again, I was taking a respite, while I was forging ahead to look for another country. In the meantime, some friends of mine invited me to go back to their home in Colombia. They were unaware that I was on a quest to find a new home, so I just accepted and went.

 

We flew into Bogota, where I had been many years before, in my airline days. What a transformation! New roads, a great bus system, shopping malls, restaurants etc. Frankly, before, it looked like a literal pile of rubble. In Bogota, we stayed in a very interesting place called Colina Campestre. It is a highly secure, but fancy complex with restaurants, a hotel, bowling alley, disco, golf course, indoor swimming pool, skeet shooting area, horseback riding and so on, designed for the elite generals who came for the weekends with their respective families. My friends had connections you might say, and the cost, $33 a night!

 

It was centrally located and right off the main highway system, allowing us to travel to other cities and towns. The weather was rainy then sunny, chilly then mild. But, it was a large city, and I knew I would not be living in such a large metropolitan area, so we ventured out.

 

Suffice to say, Colombia is beautiful. But, of all the cities and towns I saw, there was only one town that had some real charm, and that was Chia. It is North of Bogota, a place where the old town still is revered, while a new modern area was added. That contrast gave me pause, antiquity and modernity in a nutshell, or the best of two worlds. The grocery store was very up-to-date, ensconced next to the new mall and a very attractive gated community called Santa Ana. (One month after my return, a bomb went off in the new Chia mall) Above the town, on the hillside was another gated community where the soap opera stars of Colombia had houses. The view from the top and the homes, were both spectacular. The air quality was far better than the pollution of Bogota proper.

 

I also had the chance to ride a beautiful white horse up the hills in La Colera just North of Chia, a truly spectacular mountainous area with vistas like picture postcards, but no matter how beautiful Colombia was, it was still infiltrated by the drug biz, violence, and the infamous F.A.R.C. “Gingo” kidnappings were an undeniable reality there. So “No” to Colombia!

 

Oh, I did forget to mention a rather interesting opportunity which presented itself on that trip. I had the pleasure of meeting with the President of Colombia on that trip. It was just some mischief of the friends who had invited me. Well, I did. Alvaro Uribe was a very polished and polite chap. We spoke for over 15 minutes while the newsreels were rolling. The President’s Press Secretary took my name for the record, and then proceeded to tell me that she would be sending me an invitation to tour the Presidential Palace on my next visit. Sorry to say, I did not return to Colombia because that night, I found myself on the 6:00 o’clock news. Too much exposure for an Americano in the land of disappearing “Gringos.” My friends spirited me out the next day. Adios Colombia!

 

Still Determined – But, A Bit Discouraged

 

Upon my return from this escapade, I became more determined to find my place. I just kept thinking I was wandering around, as if lost in the desert, like our biblical forefathers. I surely hoped it would take less time than what these ancestors had to endure! But, the Lord was putting me through my paces. I prayed and prayed in my desperation. And the Holy Spirit, was silent, as if I were deaf.

 

Chile

 

I then seized on the idea of Chile. Yeah that was it! The travel logs looked enticing. The country was quite unique with all the different choices of temperatures zones, desert, to penguins, a sprawling wine country, beautiful coastal towns, abundant food and the very sophisticated city of Santiago with the majestic Andes as a back-drop. And let us not forget Pablo Neruda, the famous poet!

 

So, before I go on and on, I am going to end this trip here, because I then discovered that Chile is sitting just off a tectonic plate. Remember I told you that safety was important? Whatever Chile has going for it, it is nonetheless on the “Nasca Plate.” What is that? It means, when the Lord gets ready to rattle and roll this planet in these Last Days, Chile is going to have some real problems. Scuba anyone? So, “No” to Chile!

 

Argentina

 

Now, what is left? There is Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay, since I eliminated Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Paraguay. The losers have so many strikes against them I just tossed them out the window. Peru is dangerously infested with the “Shining Path,” shamans and the occult. Now, Bolivia, “What’s in Bolivia except Lake Titicaca?” Next, is Venezuela. It is a socialist morass of chaos, like finding oneself going from the frying pan into the fire! And lastly, Paraguay, a country where dangerous “Shrubs” and a certain evil “Moon” have a potential to lurk. So, “No, no and no.”

 

And, now, my former feelings of “Desperation” feel good in comparison, to what I am experiencing presently, since years have passed from when I first commenced my search. I am beginning to wonder if God has forgotten my name. Regardless of prayers, beseeching the Lord for help and guidance, there is silence. I am not going to give up however,and am more determined than ever, as I rally again to try Argentina.

 

It is a land of the pampas, gauchos, superb beef, the tango, Buenos Aires the “Paris of South America,” and the uniquely beautiful area of Bariloche, which happens to be my favorite place in nearly all the world! Then, in the Northwest, is the small town of Cafayate. It is famous for the “Safe-Haven” community which Doug Casey finally built himself, Estancia de Cafayate, a beautiful equestrian community with an 18 hole golf course, exquisitely designed homes, set within their own vineyards, and organic gardens. The mountains flank each side with their rust-colored hue, enhanced by a very big blue sky.

 

I ask myself again, this country has to be it, right? Ah, sadly, no. Why? You guessed it, because it is in Argentina! Unfortunately, if it were not for those who have destroyed the government of a proud and industrious people, Argentina would currently be a burgeoning country since it is rich in resources and culture. But, as we know, they do not stand alone in these crimes. We as God’s people know the true causation of which I speak, and we know it is pervasive, and the very reason I am on this journey.

 

Not Giving Up

 

I realize, at this point, most folks would have just given it up, thinking they really did not hear the message. But I knew that was not true, and so, I was still compelled to continue my journey. If there is one thing that I am, it is determined, or maybe just plain stubborn like that of a Rottweiler. (Some have mistaken me for a Chihuahua. Big mistake!) Either way, my mind and heart were still focused on my promise to be obedient and find where God wanted me be.

 

Guatemala

 

So, again, I returned home to the U.S. feeling utterly defeated. What could be next? I am so tired, I am praying and I am confused! What are you trying to show me dear Lord? I am waiting for a download from you Holy Spirit! And again, nothing happened. So, when some folks I met along the way in all my travels called and said, they wanted to go to Antigua, Guatemala because there was a community being built there that we want to see, I packed and flew out to meet them for a look see.

 

I prayed the whole flight, “Let it be the place!” What a shock, we were aghast at Guatemala City. We did not know it, but a few days before our departure, the airport was closed because of a volcanic explosion and a sink-hole which swallow up 70 some homes, not to mention the poor little CNN reporter who went to the Lord, when a giant rock hit her in the head. Oh my, not another volcano country! It was literally a nightmare.

 

We quickly were spirited into Antigua by our driver. What a difference. Here, nestled in the mountains at 5,000 ft., sat this charming little town, a true dichotomy of what we saw in the city. Green mountains in all directions, cobblestone streets, like a patchwork quilt, loads of great restaurants, hotels, superb coffee, so-so grocery stores, but adequate, and some truly gorgeous housing. And the weather was literally perfect, not too hot, not too cold, and very little rain!

 

I rented a 5 bedroom house with a full upper deck, vaulted ceilings, massive rock fireplace, granite kitchen with all the North American accoutrement, several gardens, a gardener, a maid, all lavishly furnished and a garage, for $1,000 per month! The weather was glorious, the people were nice and the house was divine.

 

Was this the place? Not really… it was a tourist town, and that was getting old. Those green mountains, yep, they were volcanoes. But, the following was to be the additional nail in the coffin. We ventured to meet some U.S. ex-pats every Thursday morning for breakfast adjacent to the town square. After a month or so, we found out that some very nefarious activities were ongoing in the central park square, operated by the same ex-pats. The nature of which was so serious, it led to the Holy Spirit telling me to leave. (Oh, I was so glad to hear something. I wasn’t deaf or worse, forgotten!) But even more importantly, that same afternoon, I happened to come across a bit of information on the Internet by complete accident, that would come to change my life in ways I could never have imagined. And so, I left, never to return. Again, it was a resounding “No” to Guatemala from the Holy Spirit!

 

Feeling A Bit Defeated

 

Back again in the U.S., I realized that all my neighbors, friends, and family think I am ready for a mental ward. I keep leaving, only to come back like a boomerang. I suppose it seemed strange to everyone but me. All I knew was that I had two more countries to go, Brazil and Uruguay, but I just did not have the steam to continue at that moment. So here I was, back where I had started, because the Holy Spirit told me to go home! What had I done wrong? I am supposed to leave, but to where? And that 40 years in the desert thing was ringing in my head.

 

I knew one thing, the Lord would never abandon me, even though at this point I was spent, confused, and at the end of my rope. I kept saying to myself, He must have had a very special reason for all of this.

 

Uruguay

 

Then, something did happened, something amazing, and, it could never have happened if I had not gone back home as the Holy Spirit had directed me to do. Without reciting all the details which led to my being propelled out of Guatemala, that bit of information I found on the Internet that day, connected me to a special group of people that would be the catalyst which led me to my “Promised Land.”

 

Of course, during all this time, I was completely unaware of the multi-dimensional chess game being managed by God, on my behalf. Years passed, and one day, the subject of my leaving became front and center again. But this time, I pulled that lever, and it all lined up, like 3 cherries in a row! Now, I take a jaunt to Uruguay at the urging of a friend, “Go check it out for yourself,” and this was exactly what I did.

 

Flying In

 

As the plane neared the coastline, all I could see was the greenest grass. I said to myself, this country looks like a giant golf course! Now, as we taxi in towards the terminal, I took a double-take. This terminal looks like a giant flying saucer! Oh my, these folks have a sense of humor here! I had been up for 2 days with no sleep, so some of this personal amusement was lack of sleep.

 

The Warm Welcome

 

As I step off the plane, I am greeted by the most meticulously polite airport personnel, sporting friendly smiles while helping me with my carry-on luggage. I had forgotten what gracious travel had felt like! But in Uruguay, you are treated with respect. A young man came out of nowhere and collected my bags as I stood pointing at each bag rolling off the conveyor. Politely he whisked me through security and to the taxi stand. The taxi driver proceeded to take me to the hotel, and after arriving, he unloaded my luggage, carried it inside of the hotel for me, and kissed me on the cheek, saying, “Welcome to Uruguay!” Then, the people behind the front desk said, “You must be Alexandra! Welcome to Uruguay!” From this point forward, every day I was there, it was as if I was some celebrity.

 

Previously, I had met the brother of the man who oversees the Uruguayan Consulate in Miami some months before. Well, upon discovering that I am headed to Uruguay, he insisted on amending his visit with his brother, and flying back down to Uruguay so he could take me on a tour of the country. He came to get me at my hotel with his great smile and warm demeanor. I hardly know this guy, but now he is chauffeuring me to Punta del Este and La Barra, up the coast from Montevideo, the capital city. Once my eyes saw that area, I was in love with Uruguay. He took me to his home to meet his wife and children. I stayed in a dazzling boutique hotel just up the street from their lovely home, directly on the La Barra inlet. There was no charge, as this was his friend Nico who was the owner, a sweet and generous soul. How lovely it was, and how welcoming they were to a stranger. I was truly overwhelmed by their hospitality.

 

Diego began to escort me all over Punta del Este as well. It looked just like the U.S., a small town of some 30,000 people off-season, and rather elegant. From the yacht basin, to the many luxury hotels and condos lining the rolling sandy beaches, beautiful homes and neighborhoods, many restaurants, an American-style shopping mall, multiple upscale grocery stores to rival and surpass any we have in the U.S., car dealerships, hospitals, hardware and paint stores, an entire street called the “Design District,” and on and on. Instantly, one could see how livable a town it was. As you have already read, I traveled to a myriad of countries in South America, but this place, well it is a just unique, the “Crown Jewel” of South America. It not only looked like home, it felt like home!

 

Uruguay Was The Place!

 

And at that moment, I realized, my journey was over! I wept profusely, and thanked God for bringing me here. I had not done anything wrong, I was not deaf, He had not forgotten my name, He had just saved the best place for me! My obedience delivered me to my “Promised Land.”

 

Lunch With Four Little Boys

 

After being treated like a V.I.P., I return to Montevideo to spend my last weekend in the big city. I bid Diego good-bye and knew I had made a good friend, and acquired a family in Uruguay. The next day I went to the shopping mall, where a young boy about 14 came up to me. He said, I heard you speaking English. Are you an American? All I had to do is say “Yes,” and three more little friends gathered around me. They asked me if I could tell them about the U.S. Constitution, and more importantly, if the United States was founded for God? Well, I was more than surprised.

 

With that I took them for lunch and ice cream, while answering their many intelligent questions. They all walked me back to my hotel, carefully escorting me across every street, and then each of them said good-bye, and gave me a kiss on the cheek, as they left. How utterly adorable! I thought I was in a movie, as none of this whole trip seemed real, but there was more to come!

 

The Result Of Lunch With Four Little Boys

 

Two days later, on Saturday, the phone in my room rang. It was Mauro, the little boy from the mall. He told me that his parents are so grateful that I had taken his friends and him for lunch, they wanted to invite me to their family luncheon tomorrow.

 

Now, I know I am in a movie! Naturally, I accept, since I don’t want to miss the show!

 

At 1:00 p.m. sharp, Sunday afternoon, Mauro and his lovely mother Marianna arrive to pick me up at the hotel. Off we go to this chic little restaurant, La Perdiz, where Alfredo, the husband, and Chiara, the daughter, are waiting under a colorful umbrella in this outdoor café. To make a long story short, the luncheon was tremendous, the conversation friendly and genuine, encouraged by a bit of fabulous Uruguayan wine. A good time was had by all.

 

Thinking lunch was over, I began to thank them for their hospitality, when Alfredo asked if I would like to see their weekend home. So, poodle and all, we trek 30 minutes outside the city to “Marina Santa Lucia,” a very extraordinary, upscale community of homes on a canal off the Santa Lucia River.

 

Oh my, it was simply gorgeous! As I am escorted by Mauro through the house and then into the back yard, I see this large and extravagant yacht. I said, what a stunning yacht! Alfredo said, do you like boats? (Ah, this was no boat!) I answer in the affirmative. He says, would like to take a ride?

 

No doubt now, I am in a movie, and it is a great one, because minutes later, I am flying down the Santa Lucia River in their fabulous yacht, with 4 people I have never met before being in Uruguay, and it is as though we are family!

 

Now, to make my point, this just happens to be the last day I am in Uruguay, as my flight departed at 11:00 p.m. Who could have imagined that anything else unusual could happen? Well… we get back in the car and proceed to my hotel. We kiss and hug and say good-bye, oh my heart did thump. That little Mauro was a heart-breaker!

 

Returning To The US

 

I am now at the airport, approaching my gate. I have a few minutes to catch my breath, when I hear, “Alexandra.” Who do I turn to find but Diego’s brother from the Uruguayan Consulate waving to me as he walks over to, yep, you guessed it, kiss me on the cheek. I think it is time to disclose something about Uruguayan culture. They do not shake hands, they kiss you on the cheek instead, in case you were thinking something else. What a country!! At that point, he says, I changed my flight so you would have some company!

 

Yeah, yeah, it’s a movie alright! Real life doesn’t happen this way. So I am going to wait for the sequel, since the first movie was so darn good.

 

Moving To Uruguay

 

Now this time, I return home and with confidence. I started packing up my household. The neighbors are now more than curious. My family is questioning me and my friends know for sure that I am no longer a sane person.

 

Within months, the sequel unfolded, as I was living on that beautiful inlet in La Barra thanks, in large part, to Diego, my first and best friend in Uruguay. Yes, it really does look like a movie set. Wait until you see it!

 

The Thanksgiving Party

 

Shortly thereafter, I had made many friends, so I decided to give a Thanksgiving Party. Little did I know it was to be the most famous party La Barra would ever see. Thirty eight people showed up, including Alfredo, Marianna, Mauro and Chiara, and their yacht captain. They had driven all the way from Montevideo to be there! People I barely knew came, especially this darling little man who came up to me after dinner and said, “I would like to sing for your guest.” I thought…well…. you know what I thought. I said “How nice of you,” in the most polite manner I could muster. I said a silent prayer with this frozen smile on my face and hoped for the best.

 

Well, all the large glass doors of this very large apartment were open that were facing the inlet and the town. This is an important point, as this man steps up, and starts to sing, and sing he did! And with those doors open, the entire town could hear the magnificent voice of Eduardo Koumanjian, one of Uruguay’s finest opera stars. Within minutes, Alfredo realizes who he was, as well as Professor Pablo Maggone another of my guests. They are cheering wildly. Eight operas later, Eduardo wraps it up with “Granada.” The entire township and everyone who was in attendance, is still talking about it!

 

Yeah, I know, it’s the best sequel on the planet. But then again, just imagine who was the producer and director?

 

Our Hope Is In The Lord

 

Life is a journey, where we can choose to obey God, placing our lives in His hands, or struggle in disobedience. But curiously, sometimes, the struggle is the journey God had intended for us. We just have to find the wisdom to know the difference. And our faith, with our hope in Him, will always deliver us to the right destination in all things. God knows what is best for us, and His timing is always correct. We must also learn to forge an understanding of His “Appointed Time,” then trust with all of our hearts that He will deliver all that He has promised through faith, hope and most importantly, “Obedience.”

 

Matthew 21:2 – And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.

 

Psalms 31:24 – Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

 

Isaiah 1:19 – If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.

 

Some facts on Uruguay

 

 

Uruguay Information – Live in Uruguay – Uruguay Travel – JoinUruguay.com

 

YouTube shortlink: http://youtu.be/Br4vTypFlcg

 

Someone recently emailed me, asking, uh, yeah, where is that? Is that near Indonesia? Oh boy, I know it is a small country, but let us review our geography. It is located just under the big bulge of Brazil, on the Atlantic Coast of South America, and to the South and West lies Argentina. Uruguay is blessed with rambling hills, 180 kilometers of sandy beaches, the largest water reserves in all of South America, 12 million head of cattle, 10 million head of sheep, oranges and rice in the North, olives, blueberries and grapes nearly everywhere else. Suffice to say, this country has some of the finest farmland in the world. This is true abundance, as there are only 3 million people in the country!

 

Uruguayans – A Special People

 

When you arrive here you will instantly know, these people are very, very special! As an example of their caring hearts, I will tell you what happened when I became rather ill with pneumonia this winter. Well, the entire staff of the condo where I live, the developer’s secretaries, friends I knew, and folks I barely knew, were all hovering over me with soups and treats and caring wishes. They proclaimed, “You are not alone, Alexandra!” One gal sent her father to see me, who was a doctor. He showed up, and we were both so surprised. He was a man I knew. He was also the President of what we would call the Chamber of Commerce here in our town. We had met at a big meeting some months before. I tried to pay him, but he softly, but firmly, refused to take any money!

 

Their concerns were beyond what your own family would be, if they knew you were ill. Next the condo staff went to the grocery store, pharmacy etc. Then, my great friends Natalia and Ernesto came to give me their medicines of choice, honey from their chacra (ranch), bee propolis, hot teas, home-made chicken soup and you guessed it, mas besos, right on the cheek! After recovering, my dear friend Diego took me shopping and carried all the groceries up to my 18th floor apartment. (Yes, I know, it has to be a movie!)

 

Low Crime – Great Infrastructure

 

The energy for the high-speed Internet system is provided by hydro-electric power. The road systems are excellent. There is virtually no violent crime either. That is not to say that there are no purse snatchers or pick-pockets, but all in all you never hear of any crime. It exists, but it is a scintilla of what we have in the U.S., a high crime, high murder rate country. Not here!

 

Great Healthcare

 

I recently completed my exams to obtain my health care at the local hospital. I was told because I was older than the limit allowed to get approved. But, just like everything else, I was connected to someone who got me into the best program. This program includes cancer treatments, transplants, replacements, tests and all the other obvious procedures. It is going to cost a whopping, $82.00 per month! That ought to get your attention! And yes, the doctors are highly qualified and are very caring. How would you like to pay an additional $35.00 a month, so if you do get sick, the doctor just comes to your house! Rather unbelievable, I know!

 

NOT A Police State

 

A bit weary of traffic tickets? Hey, there are no militarized police here. In fact, you see some little police cars, but they are peace officers. They do not stop you or give you a ticket. Revenue generating is not a part of their duties. However, if you cause an accident, or get caught robbing someone, they are tough. But for the average person just driving around town, they are next to invisible. You are shaking your head in disbelief….

 

Food

 

I have been also been asked about the price of food. It depends on the item. Anything imported is a bit more expensive. But basics are the same as in the U.S. and in some cases lower. Food quality is very high and there is much variety. Just sometimes, in the meat department, you are not really sure what part of the cow is in that package, however, all the chicken is recognizable!

 

The not so good news is that the average coffee is truly horrible. And I know some people who cannot live without their coffee!! Well, sorry to say, if you move to Uruguay, you will have to part with a few bucks to get the good stuff, or find a source to fly in a supply!( Coffee donations gladly accepted! )

 

Housing

 

As for housing, if you are diligent, you will find reasonably priced luxury apartments and homes. The key is to rent annually. This small town, of Punta del Este has a population of about 30,000 people for 9 ½ months out of the year. Because this it is a place where wealthy Argentinians and Brazilians come to “Summer,” as they say, from December 15th to April 15,th it can swell to 150,000- 200,000 people.

 

It is the only place I have found in South America where you think you are in the U.S. That is why I call it the “Crown Jewel.” Single family homes are a bit harder to find at moderate prices, but the prices of luxury apartments are softening due to the recent bankruptcy of Argentina. Most all have great facilities such as indoor and outdoor pools, tennis court, health clubs, yards and swing sets for children, as well as party rooms equipped with their own built-in BBQ. This is very Uruguayan. Every Sunday, all the families have dinner together as dad grills the meat.

 

Montevideo, the capitol, is a city of over 1 million people. For our purposes, avoiding heavily populated areas will be preferable in the future. Nevertheless, it is fun to visit, where a plethora of goods and services are to be had.

 

Punta del Este

 

But, my recommendation is Punta del Este. If you decide to relocate. It is a good place to reorient and start to acclimate to the paradigm shift, feeling more like an American way of life. Nonetheless, the real name of the game will be to achieve a self-sustaining lifestyle in the future, that being phase two. That is when you do your due diligence and buy some real estate. From what the Holy Spirit has told me, moving from the city to a farm, should be my ultimate goal.

 

And for those who do come, perhaps God will bless us with like-minded companionship. We may find some nice neighbors in the farms adjacent, who just happened to have also heard the Holy Spirit beckoning them to this beautiful and safe land.

 

A Good Place For Americans

 

And, as I said before, safety being a major criteria, Uruguay is a good choice. There is no oil here, nor are their large caches of precious metals for others to covet. There are no alphabet agencies, no natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, title waves, earthquakes, tectonic plates, etc. For now, Uruguay is off the radar, making this one of the more peaceful countries in the world. But mainly, we should always remember that our safest refuge is the Lord!

 

Presently, Uruguay is still a place where Americans can open bank accounts, be granted residency and then, ultimately, obtain citizenship without much hoopla. These prospects are drying up in many other parts of the world. Therefore, this is something important to consider.

 

Some Things Are Expensive

 

Now, for the not so inexpensive side of Uruguay. Cars are expensive, about 35% more expensive. Gasoline may be $7.00 a gallon, but this is a small country where things are conveniently located, and you do not have to drive long distances on a regular basis to conduct basic everyday business.

 

This is some basic knowledge of the good, the bad, and not too much ugly, regarding Uruguay. As you have read, I have been to many countries or have researched the rest in detail giving you some contrast. Therefore, I hope you will find the story of my journey that God intended for me, to be of help to all of you.

 

Lastly, I wish to thank John Little. He is a watchman who exemplifies great love for his fellow man, as all watchmen do, by the very nature of their ever-vigilant commitment to warn their brothers and sisters. As a former magazine publisher myself, I know the amount of work and diligence it takes to produce this blog as well as all his other endeavors. Thank you John for all you do, and may God continue to bless you and your work!

 

Your sister in Christ,

 

Alexandra Devereaux

 

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© Copyright Alexandra Devereaux, 2014

 

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My Thoughts On What Alexandra Wrote

 

What a great article. What a great story of following the Lord’s direction, even when it doesn’t make sense sometimes. You cannot lose, if you place your future in the hands of God.

 

When all is said and done, each of you will have a different story to tell of where and how God led you in the days that come. The choices that you make will be different than Alexandra’s, because God has a different place and role for each of us.

 

If You Have A Story To Tell

 

By the way, if you have also followed the Lord’s hand in your life and chosen to relocate – whether within the US or outside the US – share your experience with us.

 

Better yet, write an article. Alexandra is obviously a great writer, which meant that I didn’t need to do any editing (except headings and three typos). But, I am more than willing to help you edit and polish what you write. I really want OmegaShock readers to hear as many voices as possible, to help encourage them to take the direction that God is calling them.

 

Be Encouraged

 

Whatever your situation, please be encouraged by Alexandra’s story and redouble your efforts to seek the Lord and follow His will. God may tell you to stay where you are, or He may lead you to some other spot on the planet.

 

The main point is to seek the Lord and submit to His will.

 

May the Lord guide us all, in the dark days ahead.

 

I truly hope that you’ll be ready for this

(That’s a link. There’s not much time left.)

 

A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. – Proverbs 22:3

 

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If you find a flaw in my reasoning, have a question, or wish to add your own viewpoint, leave a comment on the website. Your input is truly welcome.

 

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