IX. Sharing Joy - Lesvos, Greece

Rising early to arrive at Hope before the refugees woke, Anais and I scrambled. We made our way into the Hope living room, to see a few refugees huddled around the fire and volunteers moving slowly to wake up. After sharing a few "good mornings," we began cutting apples for 2 massive pots of oats, apples, cinnamon, raisins, and evaporated milk. We stirred the pot with delight, whispering prayers of peace into the food.

A Syrian elderly woman grew curious of what we were doing and brought herself to the pot. Within seconds, she was smelling the spices, trying the raisins, and telling us the names of them in Arabic. The 3 of us began to cook together in harmony: Anais and I stirring pots and our new sou chef pouring ingredients into the pot.

I resisted adding white sugar to the oats even though everyone insisted that no one would eat it unless it was intensely sweet. Many of the children's teeth were blackened or covered in metal - many of the adults teeth are in bad shape as well. While filling up tea, they tend to add 5+ full spoonfuls of sugar to a small cup.

Some volunteers tried the porridge and were delighted. At the sight of the food, the majority of the refugees chose to eat white bread and Nutella or cookies over the porridge. It broke my heart a bit. Most of them are happy and warm - this was a huge victory.

Two lifeguards from Lifeguard Hellas stopped in to help bring items we needed. I struck a conversation with one and talked about the conditions of the water and passing boats. There has been no sight of boats on our side of the coast. Yesterday a double decker ship flipped right off the coast of Turkey, and at least 40 people drowned. It is an absolute crime to allow these people to get aboard some of these makeshift boats.

Refugees play soccer outside of Hope!

According to the lifeguard, the police/coast guard are tightening up the Maritime laws and trying to get organizations like Pro Activa Open Arms, Green Peace, etc. off the water. The Coast Guard wants their territory back. This would be a huge disservice to the arriving boats, and would make things for volunteers on the beach much more difficult - as these boats are escorting incoming boats, communicating with people on shore, and making rescues if boats fail.

A local volunteer explained that this is a big business. The refugees are seen as ATMs. First they pay smugglers (mafia) a large sum to board a makeshift boat, then the Coast Guard intercepts them. In the past, the Coast Guard has been seen (through binoculars) beating the refugees and stealing their money. Refugees have arrived beaten and shared with the volunteers that they were robbed by the Coast Guard.

Ultimately, this local man does not see an end to this crisis for at least s, as corrupt organizations have found a way to capitalize off innocent people.

On top of this, there are racist groups on the island that are sabotaging certain camps. Yesterday an emergency medical tent was burned (after being slashed with knives days previous). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uFAU67q8zw&feature=youtu.be


After lunch, I received a phone call from Cookie - she called on request of the refugees, they wanted Anais and I to return before they left to say goodbye! We hurried back with a bag full of clementines to give, and shared many hugs, handshakes, smiles and Facebook names! One of the men said to me, "I love you." Ah! The gratitude of the people was obvious as they walked towards the bus with bags full of new blankets we gave them.  They were an incredible group of beings who spent most of the day helping the Hope Center with random tasks and construction. I will pray for them on their journey.

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/




A video hope center of last night shot by Eric Kempson (https://youtu.be/PFnW0VvuTgY) 

VIII. Hope Center opens - Yogi Kitchen: Lesvos, Greece

Aloha! Emotions of joy are bursting from my heart in these moments.

We woke up to a warmer day and calm seas. I expected to see boats scattered through the ocean. Instead, I watched Greek Military ships move up and down the invisible boundary, displaying their arms to Turkey and Lesvos. Since no calls were coming in on the radio and many lifeguards were at their post, I decided to take the opportunity to get a flat tire fixed at a local mechanic.

Victory was mine as I drove towards the Hope Center on four full tires! I was surprised to arrive with an unusual hustle in the air, and Anais setting tables with food and tea on them. "What is happening?!"

The ferry went on a planned strike this weekend, not running any boats. Therefore, there is an overload at the refugee camp, Moria, and the "powers at be" asked the Hope Center to receive 100+ refugees for a night or two; hence the unusual pace of things!

I jumped into the mix, helping Anais prepare the living room with an array of treats and teas; I wanted something more to offer then - that is when my favorite yogi meal: Mung Beans and Rice popped in my head.

I found Phillipa (she and her husband leased the Hope Center) and Cookie, and offered my service to cook a yogi meal. They took to the idea well, asking where we would get Mung beans - Lentils will do for now! Within minutes, I had a team of chefs who were willing to help chop veggies and follow my lead.

I fetched a set of massive pots, put in an order at the grocery store, got the water boiling, and off we were rolling. Green Lentils, Rice, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, zucchini, and spices - quite a step up from white bread and a slice of cheese! With the help of an amazing team, we were able to provide hot, delicious and nutritious food to 100+ people within a couple of hours.

The refugees walked into our living room warmed by the fire, full with hot tea and food, and many smiles. After serving food, Anais made rounds around the room to give mothers warm water for baby formula. Children laughed as they played on our carpet with donated stuffed animals. Some children played with balls, and other found it funny to play tricks on the volunteers.

With the help of bilingual refugees, we let them know our current situation, giving them free reign of the hotel - families are given priority to change first in rooms, and everyone will have space and a sleeping bag to sleep with (we need beds asap!).  We ate and chatted with the refugees, learning some of their stories. One man told me he left Afghanistan 7 years ago to get away from the Taliban, traveling though Iran and Turkey to get here. He made a gesture that if he was to go back to Afghanistan he would be killed. Others came from Iraq and Syria with similar stories.

In between cooking and cleaning, I was able to pick up my Ukulele and strum a few chords. Many ears perked up, and before you know it, I was full on jamming. An Irish man, Nigel, picked up an empty bin and began drumming, Anais with her angelic voice and a shaker, and we were making music. A Hawaiian track and Om Namah Shivaya left the refugees with a big smiles on their faces and a buzz in my heart.

I put in my order for the breakfast - oats, raisins, apples, bananas, cinnamon. I am looking forward to rising bright and early to make a massive pot of delicious food for a group of amazing individuals.








Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

VII. Fog on the Water, Lesvos, Greece

As fog rolled in over the morning ocean, Anais and I spotted the first incoming boat of the day. Why so late? Perhaps it is because of the lack of visibility? We teamed up with Pro Activa and the Greek Red Cross to bring the boat in safely, unload the refugees, and welcome them with a wave of warmth.

As I walked towards my vehicle, I spotted a military/police jeep with armed men inside. Their presence irked me; a burly looking fellow stepped out of the jeep in a full camouflage uniform and a pistol strapped on his hip. "Should I snap a photo of him?" Anais asked. Not this guy, there was steel in his eyes as he peered over the blue sea.

Morris, the leader of the Pro Activa lifeguards, told us the police are observing the people bring the boats over; although no one is sure of their real motivation. There is speculation that the European border control group, Frontex, will be taking extreme measures to turn refugees around in the water and send them back to Turkey.  In this case, I am sure they would not want a bunch of volunteers on the beach taking video of them!

Who knows?!? It is a tense time to be on island, as many changes are sure to happen in these upcoming weeks. 

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

An interesting chart I came across on who cashes in on keeping migrants out.
http://newint.org/features/2016/01/01/the-border-industry/

VI. Weather improves, Regulations increase - Lesvos, Greece

It seems Poseidon has answered our prayers! The weather has dramatically shifted since we arrived on island, from cold & bitter winds to warm sunshine. The weather is supposed to continue to improve, although locals say it has been up and down all winter. Improving weather means more refugees have the opportunity to cross the sea.

The EU has threatened to strip Greece of Schengen zone rights, and has given Greece 6 weeks to stop the flow of immigrants into Europe. What is Greece to do? You cannot stop the refugees from crossing the ocean, so do they turn them back? Do they keep them on the island, or make big refugee camps for them across Greece? Greece is in a predicament that has led to stricter regulations on the island, and a police presence that is increasing.

The volunteers here are prepared to do whatever it takes to keep things as peaceful as possible, as the unknown approaches.  People are preparing for the long haul. For example, The Hope Center has a 1-year lease with an option to extend to 5 years if needed.

Last night, the Hope Center received its first boat full of 45 refugees. Although we are not officially open, the renovated hotel was able to provide shelter, a warm fire, and tea to the group. Anais and I will be working with Sat Nam Foundation to help provide The Hope Center with necessities for the refugees. Stay posted on how you can support!

Pressure is increasing on the island. The local Greeks are feeling the financial effects of this crisis - as tourism is plummeting. Stress amongst the common folk is increasing as taxes have become a burden. Yet, the locals continue to welcome volunteers with open arms, giving deals on rentals, offering free desserts with meals, and playing an important role during this crisis.

As my perspective of this situation begins to widen, I understand we each play a crucial role in the development of the human race. I am beginning to see this as a gateway to long term service. Collectively, we can make a difference. We represent Sat Nam Foundation and all of the kundalini yoga family while we are on this island - help us make the love grow! Whether through prayer or action!




Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

V. Ups and Downs - Lesvos, Greece

Anais and I rose early with a new pep in our step, thanks to our little portable heater! Rising in the dawn is slightly easier when you cannot see your breath and can feel your toes. We decided to beeline straight for Skala, in hopes to help receive the morning boats.

There are two roads connecting Molivos and Skala: the mud road & the mountain road. We have passed through the mountain road a couple of times, although it is a bit longer and you run the risk of icy roads. We have heard many stories of the mud road; people bottoming out, popping tires, getting stuck, while others make the journey once or twice a day with no problems other than a muddy car!

As it snowed the night previous, we decided to try the mud road. By the grace of God, our little Nissan Micra successfully crossed the grueling road in about 25 minutes, arriving just in time to help with the unloading of the morning boats over the course of a few hours. We witnessed a pace that the volunteers worked - one that received the refugees, and then guided them into vans where they are transported elsewhere.

In the heart of the winter, the arrival of boats has been the slowest, as the danger has increased with falling temperatures. Lifeguards shared stories with me about October, when the entire ocean was filled with boats, and 10s of boats would land at the same time. The beaches were absolute mayhem and the island filled fast. People are expecting the weather to get better in the next few weeks, and a flood of refugee boats to take off from shore - as there are apparently millions waiting on the coast of Turkey for their chance to cross.

My favorite part of receiving the refugees is seeing the happiness and relief in their eyes, shaking their hands, welcoming them with "Salaam Alaikum," and watching family rejoice with hot beverages in their hands and dry clothes on their bodies. On the other hand, reality began to sink in, as not all is glitter and gold.

Yesterday, a refugee spoke to me as I helped him onto land. With his hands and words, he told me that there was another boat that flipped. I spoke with the leader of Pro Activa who had radio contact with his rescue boat, and he let me know that it was in "Turkish waters" and there was nothing we could do about it. I watched the refugees of the boat that arrived safely, and could feel the pain they were experiencing for their lost family and friends.

As it turns out, the boat did sink, and at least 23 drowned. As I spoke with Nigel (a volunteer from Ireland) about the tragedy, he told me a story: A group of 30 refugees paid a smuggler a premium price to take a boat with less people, as to be safer. They also paid the smuggler to drive the boat across for them, as they had never even seen the ocean.  When the morning came for the crossing, the smuggler loaded the boat up with 52 people (22 extra), and began to drive off the coast. When he was 50 meters from the coast, he jumped off the boat, pointed to a 23 year old young man and said, "you drive." Then the smuggler swam back to the coast.

With the winds and seas in their favor, this group made it safely across. There are many unbelievable stories like this, that involve the corruption taking place while helping the Syran/Afghan/Iranian people. If they do arrive safely to Lesvos, which is their only option into Europe at this point, they are not guaranteed entry beyond this point.





For example, a 22 year old young man was sent on a boat with his 5 year old nephew. The grandparents paid their crossing, so the child could see a better life. When they arrived, the young boy died of hypothermia. The uncle, tried to register and was deported because he was a "single male." Imagine the guilt and burden this man carries.

Some volunteers are speaking with refugees as they arrive, and telling "single" males to claim anyone as their family, or they will be sent back home. For many, their perilous journey hits a brick wall of legislation and ends in heartbreak.

We are happy to be here, serving.

Love and Peace to all.

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

IV. Determination & Celebration

Anais and I woke up with the rising sun, moved our bodies to create warmth, and hit the road. Our first stop: lighthouse #1, the home of Lifeguard Hellas. As we drove down the dirt hill, we saw a half sunken fisherman boat and a few local gipsy scoping out the scene, seeing which parts might be valuable.

Approaching the coast, I met with a lifeguard from California (part of the International lifeguard team working with Hellas Lifeguards). He was bundled up in his car, scanning the coast and trying to stay warm. He explained that a boat arrived around midnight. Luckily, everyone was safe and the lifeguards enjoying a bonfire present to receive them.

As the morning rolled on, the Lifeguard Hellas walkie talkie began to light up with communication from boaters. They spotted 8 boats approaching full of refugees. Most were heading towards Skala, while a boat in distress was being towed by the Coast Guard towards Molyvos. In these quick minutes, the lifeguard team arrived on site. Lighthouse 1 was covered.

I decided to make a move and jump in the car towards Skala. With Anais we drove through the mountain roads to the other side of the coast, parked in an empty lot, and jumped out in a light jog towards to beach. A boat was about 100 meters from the beach as we arrived. I made eye contact with a guard from Proactiva, and he motioned me to the other side of the boat. For a moment, I felt a deep sense of camaraderie, a sense of unity. 

Together, with the help of others, we guided 3 boats full of refugees in to the shore over the next hour and a half. It is so beautiful to see the refugees land safely - smiles plastered on their faces, hugging one another, and celebrating their safe passage! Many arrive soaking wet, some without shoes, some with bags, and some with lifejackets (many fakes). There are many babies and young children squished into the mob of people.

Boats jam packed - Chilly waters

On a couple of the boats received today, we had to help people off that were totally wet from the leaking boat and blue in the lips. Medics take over as these are obvious cases of hypothermia and need immediate attention. Others are guided towards camps where they dry off, receive warm liquids, a new set of clothes, and a ride to register on the island.

No shoes!

As I was unloading the 3rd boat, I saw a man on shore without shoes on. He was trembling, trying to send a text message on his cracked smartphone. Gently kneeling next to him, I asked, "Would you like some shoes." With clear eyes, he replied, "I am trying to text my mother and let her know I am alright." Laughing deep in my belly, I looked at him with serious eyes and replied, "Bro, your mom can wait a few more minutes - take care of your feet." I put my arm around him and walked him to the nearest camp.

It turns out he was the "captain" of his boat, which he boasted proudly, as it was the first time he had ever driven a boat! Many of the refugees have never even seen the ocean, let alone driven a boat. They pay smugglers upwards of 2,000 Euro, per person, to board one of these makeshift boats (many homemade), upwards of 400 Euro for a fake lifejacket, and take off into unknown territory. It is obvious that they are desperate. 

Anais kept busy this morning, helping prepare warming tents and clothing for the refugees. As they arrived, she greeted them with warm tea (her dream!) and helped them get their bearings. She shared how certain systems can be improved by increasing communication and using eco-friendly material (rather than using styrofoam cups). Hopefully, we will be able to improve the system as we spend more time here (following the lead of Solstice/Sat Nam Fest Yogi tea!). 

Lunch approached and the sky began to open, bringing a mix of rain and snow. We left towards Molyvos immediately, knowing the mountain road would quickly become icy and too slick to drive. Singing mantras through the snow, we began to defrost our bones in the warm car!

We spent the afternoon between the Hope Center - helping paint - and the Lifeguard Hellas beach, discussing the day and watching for incoming boats. It seems that most boats are arriving between 7-11 am, and towards Skala. We would like to be of much service to incoming refugees as possible, so we are going to attempt to be in Skala early.

We would like to continue to be a part of the creation of the Hope Center, and helping the incoming boats in Skala. In the beginning of February we need to move homes, as our guest house is reserved for other volunteers. Hopefully in the next couple of days we will land the perfect room to rent! Har Har Har ;) 

God Bless Cookie, as she gave us a portable heater for our room tonight! 

Sat Nam! Love and Light to you all!

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

Day 3 - Bitter Cold Crossings

Lifeguard Hellas Camp

I woke up with frost on my beard, and my beautiful Mexican partner curled in a ball. Last night was the coldest night this winter in Lesvos (-4 C - which is chilly without heat!). My mind wandered to the refugees preparing to cross the ocean, or living here on island in a small tent. I shivered under the covers, then opened the shades to a bright sun rising. The ocean is calm, with a deep breath, I feel it is going to be a good day.

As we prepare breakfast, I think of the old homeless Greek man I encountered last night. He was feverously searching for food in the garbage bins that line the main street. I watched him pull out an empty yogurt container, run his fingers along the edge, and lick the morsels he could salvage.  A rush of reality ran through my body - it is not only the refugees that are suffering. I pulled a Euro out of my pocket, ran into a nearby store and bought a packet of hearty crackers. With respect for this elder, I handed him the food. Without lifting his head, he cracked a smile, reached out his bandaged/bloody hand and received the package.

Scanning the coast for boats

With the rising sun, we vowed to help all those in need - whether it be through a simple smile and hug, or a deep sea rescue. We packed the car and headed off. Today we decided to split ways - Anais would continue to help the Hope Center take shape, and I would head to the ocean with Lifeguards of Hellas.

I arrived to the beach as a boat was docking - another 70+ refugees freezing from the morning cold and under dressed. Luckily no one was suffering hypothermia, although it seemed that a couple were having lung issues, potentially a virus. The refugees are guided into warming tents, where they are provided water and given blankets to warm up. Within minutes vans come to pick the refugees up to bring them to the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

Anais and I are still becoming familiar with the process of registering refugees, supporting them on island, and with plans to leave elsewhere (Germany, Sweden, Austria, etc.). As of now, we are on the front lines - in direct contact with boats arriving and helping them receive emergency help.

Hope Center - Anais

The camps we have seen are furnished tents. The idea of the Hope Center is to create a stable place for Refugees to arrive and receive hospitality - the ability to make their own tea, serve themselves food, and change clothes in privacy. The hotel can hold 2-300 people at once, and will be set up with hot showers, toilets and space for people to sleep if need be. We will provide refugees with sleeping bags, changes of clothes and basic necessities to help them on their journey.

Anais spent the day sanding and painting with a group of volunteers from all over the world. Many people have been sponsored or working with NGO's, while others pay their way to be a part of the service. It is an incredible effort to be a part of. People are working together to get things done

Foam boat that arrived yesterday - Municipality destroyed it
and will take it away as garbage - not be used again

Meanwhile, on the beach certain frustrations were being voiced by a lifeguard from England. He made the journey to help for a week, and cannot believe the disorganization and miscommunication between groups. He has observed a lot of wasted energy from groups driving around the island looking for incoming boats, and feels like things can be improved.

There are many representatives from many countries here, and it seems like everyone is doing their best to work together - although language and culture is a barrier. Most people I have met speak English pretty well and are trying to meet on a level ground with everyone to bring safety and peace to the situation.

Smugglers paint boats to make condition look "new"

On a side note, Anais and I have fallen into the Mediterranean diet with ease - as it is in our blood! In a couple of days we have managed to find local herbs, chestnut honey, olives, olive oil, feta cheese, eggs, fig jelly, roasted red peppers, salted mackerel, clementines, and rye sourdough bread. Although the island is mostly closed - since it is a summer/tourist island - the local farmers are still accessible and sharing positive vibes through their food!

We look forward to continuing to serve and be a part of a Global Volunteer Effort for Peace! Light and Love to everyone!

Sat Nam!

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

Day 2 - The Lay of the Land - Lesvos, Greece

Anais and I forced our way out of our warm cocoon into the bitter cold this morning. Imagining an experience of a refugee's morning crossing the sea brought a chill to my spine. Our first stop - the hope center.

Cookie had a morning fire going, and greeted us with hugs and a smile. My eyes scanned the surroundings for Lifeguard Hellas. Cookie looked at her phone and received a message that a boat had arrived safely, and the guards were helping them unload. She gave me directions to the beach, and with a nod we took off.

As we pulled down the long dirt road, we passed our first big group of Syrian refugees as we arrived at the lifeguard camp. It was clear by their faces that a wave of relief washed over the group. As we observed the group, my eyes began observing the piles of lifejackets, broken boats, and other rubbish on the beach. We walked through the wind towards the tent, and my eyes immediately found Mania - the head of the guard unit that I have been in contact with over the past couple of months.

Mania recognized me immediately, and we shared hugs and smiles. She did not hesitate to begin her story of the island and the current situation. Apparently, her husband and her had been planning on staying a week; after realizing a week was only enough time to understand the situation, a week turned into a month. As people from her home continue to support them, they have decided to stay through the summer! They play an important role on the safety of the arriving refugees.


Mania, barely able to move her hands from the cold, huddled around a gas heater in her moist wetsuit and explained that the only real "lifeguard" groups on island is: Lifeguard Hellas (Greek) and Pro Activa (Spain). There are many rescue units with boats: Green Peace, Sea-Watch International, etc. that do not have "rescue swimmers." Therefore, swimmers are a rare population on the island and a necessary one.

An island map has been made of the "boat landing zones" with code names for certain locations, i.e. two hotels, that help lifeguards/search-parties locate incoming refugees. It basically consists of the northern shore of Lesvos (~25 km).  On the eastern and western end of the shore there are lighthouses. These are the rockiest and most dangerous locations for incoming boats. They are connected by a rocky, 4x4 dirt road or an icy, high mountain road. Lifeguard Hellas is on the Western end, and a group called "Lighthouse" is on the Eastern end. In the middle, Skala, (which is the busiest since it is sandy beach) is primarily received by Pro Activa.

On the eastern end, team "Lighthouse," has high-tech thermal scanning going throughout the night. Their main job is to funnel any ships coming their way towards Skala, as landing on this point can result in serious problems. There is only a bumpy dirt road (4x4 have been damaged already) that can only be accessed by a serious vehicle, and is inaccessible during storms - causing refugees to walk over an hour to the nearest road. Hypothermia is obviously a real threat here, and has taken lives already on the island.

We visited Skala today to connect with different organizations and to feel where we will be able to serve the most. First we drove towards a beach and were intercepted by a volunteer. He asked us to roll down our window, and with a glaze over our eyes explained that they had just found another dead body. He asked us to turn around and directed us to the Skala marina.



Skala is a totally different scene than Molyvos (Team Hellas/Hope Center). There are many professional teams patrolling the streets and ocean in full gear, i.e. drysuits, helmets, medical equipment, 4x4 company vehicles, etc. There are also many camps set up to receive the refugees, dry them, change their clothes, and feed them. A lot of people are buzzing around, causing the roads and paths to be a large muddy mess.

By chance, Anais and I stumbled into "Lighthouse camp" and met with their manager, Jade. She showed us the lay of the land and the process of warming up the refugees - specifically through fire barrels and heated, gas-powered tents. Her eyes lit up when she found out I was a solo lifeguard, as it seems we are a hot commodity. The organization Lighthouse is trying to put together a funds to hire full time lifeguards/wilderness first responders - lodging/meals/gear included with a paid stipend (to all my wilderness/lifeguard buddies out there - get in touch with me if you are interested!). It is beginning to feel like we will fall into place here!

On the Western end, the Hope center is just being remodeled. Anais and I have an opportunity to get our hands in on a project that is just beginning. The vision is to funnel people to the beach of the Hope Center, as it is less threatening and calmer than others. A lifeguard team is going to be needed. Tomorrow morning we head back to the Western end to give what we can!

Thank you to all the supporters that have helped Anais and I get out here. Sat Nam Foundation is sponsoring us to be out here, and to provide the refugees with the care they need. Please support us at: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/

Welcome to the Island of Lesvos

The buzz of Athens quickly transformed into an air of peace as we entered the airport - a rare occurrence, as the airport is usually a source of stress, radiation, yelling voices, and a sweaty back. We walked up the to the counter of Aegean Air and were greeted with a large smile. Perhaps it was the bright red sweatshirt or the red "GUARD" buoy I was carrying that gave us away as volunteers. The woman working a the desk said, "My mother lives on Lesvos. No one is helping - except the volunteers." She then offered to check our extra baggage for free so we did not have to carry it - this never happens.

Anais and I skirted through the crowds, finishing our last bits of water before entering the dreaded x-ray machines. We shared a smile, as this has become a regular event in our relationship, and then began stripping down - making sure to remove the copious amounts of malas, karas, rings and precious stones. "Sir, can you open you fanny pack - it seems you have a 'Swiss Knife' in there." Ahhhiiyyaaa! Not another knife lost! I calmly grabbed my guard buoy, put my head down and waited for the awful news. Wait, this is new - she is calling her supervisor, he is measuring the knife. It seems he is trying to make it seem shorter than it really is. He hands it back to me and says, "Don't bring it on a plan again." Thankfully, I put my knife back in my fanny. I have officially discovered my new favorite traveling wardrobe!

As we approach the gate, we begin to see many folks wearing medical gear or group tags. It is clear that our flight will be full of volunteers. On the plane, I look a few rows ahead and spot a Greek lifeguard from Lifeguard Hellas I have been in contact with for the past few months - synchronicities are unfolding. As the plane takes off my mind wonders to Sounio, the Temple of Posiedon; where Anais and I paid our respects to the day prior - offering wine, prayer, song and dance to Poseidon. Deep in my heart, the blue god of the Sea lives - in this journey I will call upon him for strength, protection, and courage. Wahe Guru Poseidon!

We pick up our bags and rental car from a local guy - receiving an incredible debriefing of the current situation on the island. As Syrian refugees continue to flood in, other migrants are sneaking in using the Syrian flow as disguise. This is making things complicated on the island, as the government is forced to sift through the people, while deporting some back to their country and allowing others to continue to pass. It also has brought a large amount of poverty along with it; therefore, requiring additional aid from the common man. The sea conditions are rough today, and many boats are not able to cross.

I imagined the streets would be swarming with refugees. As we drove from Mytilene (southern part of the Lesvos), up through the heart of the island, we did not see one refugee. Perhaps I was distracted by the snow capped mountains and white capped ocean: imagining my immediate future swimming in these waters. We arrived as the sun was setting in Molivos where we will be stationed for now. Again, synchronicity brought us here.

A few months ago, I was put in contact with a local man, Thom. I spoke briefly with him about gear needs and logistics of helping in Lesvos, nothing further. About a week ago I saw Thom post a new project, labeled "The Hope Center" - an old hotel that will be transformed into a welcome home for refugees coming straight out of the water. A place for them to warm up, eat & drink, dry off, rest, and receive supplies. This project seems perfect for Anais and I, as I can help receive refugees from the water and bring them to the Hope Center.

I contacted Thom after reading about the new project, and he replied, "You can stay at my guest house." Here we have arrived - right on schedule and with our new friend and guide. Thom brought us to the Hope Center where we connected with a team of wonderful individuals. Purple hair Tracy gave us the grad tour, smiling the whole way. She has been here since July and clearly knows the ropes. The vision of the Hope Center is incredibly inspiring - an old hotel transformed! Hot showers, toilets, beds, sleeping bags, fire place, hot tea, and joyful spirits!

Tracy introduced me to Cookie from the UK. Cookie has the vision - and she gave us the download. She did not hesitate to take out her laminated maps and explain the areas where the refugees arrive - roughly a 25 km coastline. Most refugees take between 1.5 - 2.5 hours on the makeshift boats, sometime squeezing a few hundred on a small boat. Lifeguards and medics are stationed across the coast to receive the incoming boats - although they must first make it out of Turkish waters.

Apparently, some refugees come with black eyes, or busted knee caps as the Turkish police take a fancy for beating up fleeing refugees. Some even go to the extreme of cutting fuel lines on the boats or compromising the journey in another way. In the middle of the ocean channel, there is an imaginary line. One side is Turkish water, and the other is Greek. We are not allowed to cross that imaginary line and help refugees. This is the problem the few lifeguards made last week. They crossed the boundary and "smuggled" in refugees. Since then, bureaucracy has tightened up here in Lesvos.

In certain areas, volunteers have set up thermal imagining and connected it to an "app." Those who have access to the "app" will be able to see the whereabouts of incoming vessels and take the appropriate steps to receiving them. A system of patrolling the coasts 24/7 has also been put in place. People are connected through cyber space, and the risk of casualties has been minimized, for now!

The next two moths are supposed to be the coldest, with the roughest waters. We saw a bit of snow today with high winds. The Hope center is hoping (!) to be up and running as soon as possible. A goal is to raise funds to purchase sleeping bags for the refugees, so they don't freeze when they leave our hospitality. We are also hoping to acquire relaxing teas, herbs, and energy boosting foods to help them from the initial trauma.

If you wish to support this journey, you can donate on the "Sat Nam Foundation" website: http://satnamfoundation.org/index.php/campaign/lesbos/ , or if you would like to purchase specific gear for refugees, etc. you can contact me directly at mdenicola9@gmail.com.

Tomorrow we will head back to the Hope center in the morning, where I will be meeting with Lifeguard Hellas and see where I can be of most service! Wahe Guru! Prayers and Light! Love and Gratitude!