I decided last year in March or April that I was going to go to another Spanish speaking country with one of my roommates. We were hoping to go at the beginning of January and stay for 3-6 months. August came and went, then September, October, then November and I still didn't have a glimpse of a plan except that I wanted to go "somewhere" in January. All it took was one visit with an old neighbor who grew up in Guatemala for the next 6 months of my life to fall into place.
And here I am. In a small town in Guatemala. Living with a WONDERFUL family who happens to be my neighbors family. I live and help out at a Christian Church and get to experience life here as a true Guatemalan. I visit families, newborn babies, the sick, go to the mercado everyday to help buy lunch, play soccer with kids, and attend church 3 times a week. I have bible study on Monday nights, fast every Tuesday and youth group on Saturdays. We pray over people in their houses, at church, or at their businesses. Little did I know this would be my life for the next 5 months. I am so fortunate to be here.
In two weeks I will be starting work at a nearby orphanage called Casa Shalom. I get to go visit it for the first time tomorrow!! I've already been told that I'm going to be staying in the babies room. I am very excited to begin working with kids, especially orphans. I've always felt that God has laid it upon my heart to care for his children, especially the orphans. After all, that is what the Bible tells us we were called to do.
My first week here I went with the Pastor and his daughter Raquel to visit a small town called Agua Colorada. It is a very very poor community. Most of the people that live here have many kids who don't attend school and many of the parents are illiterate as well. Starting next week the church is going to be going to this community once or twice a week to begin teaching the parents how to read. This way they can be able to read the Bible.
The women in Agua Colorada are incredible in my eyes. When we went to visit we got to see where they do their laundry. It's a beautiful place where the water runs off the side of the mountain and pools at the bottom. However, it is a long, steep and rocky trek to the bottom and these women do it at least 3 times a week. I believe it took about 20 mins each way. As if that isn't enough they have to carry their laundry on top of their heads, typically with a baby on their back and a toddler holding their hand. It's really incredible.... and sad. Here is a picture of one lady that was on her way down to wash the clothes.
I'm excited to be able to share my experiences here in Guatemala. I'm hoping that I will also keep up with this blog! Thank you all for your prayers and support.
Love, Jenny
Philippians 2:13
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