St. Kitts: There's no place like home.

A shanty located in St. Kitts.

It is easy to look at this and feel bad for the inhabitants; they don't have any of the basics which we take for granted.  No power, no running water, and a home that is more hovel than hotel.  How is it that they could live in such poverty?  It must be terrible for them.  Or is it?

The truth is dependent upon what you are used to.  Most of us North Americans would be uncomfortable here.  Our "quality of living" standards would take an enormous hit, and it wouldn't be long before we were in a desperate state.  There are many in the world, however, that would look upon this as an upgrade.  Its got a roof, a beautiful view, and it is dry.

There are some things going on here though which need a closer look.  Notice that there is no garbage, debris, or other wastes hanging about.  The area is relatively free of weeds.  It is built on a bit of a knoll so that the substrate is dry.  Even though the structure is built out of salvaged bits and pieces, they are assembled in a way that makes them relatively solid and keeps the elements out.  There is a safe place for kids to play.  In short, the occupants take pride in their dwelling.

The reality is that we don't need much to survive.  Shelter, food and water, and a way to deal with wastes fit the bill.  The question becomes less about what you have and more about how well you care for it and the people who live there.  If there is one standard we were to look at, it should not be where you live, the size of your house or the kinds of cars you own.  It should be how well you look after the things in your care.  That is the measure of success, and the only real way to make a place your home.