Day 9

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Today was our last full day here in Guatemala. Even though we weren’t ready for the trip to be over, we still managed to turn today into another incredible one. We arose again to a very early morning (some earlier than others due to some technical difficulties) and headed to a Catholic Mass service in ChiChi. We entered the beautiful church and were met by a congregation of hundreds and a ton of smoke from the incense. The entire service was in Spanish, but it was a thing of beauty. We couldn’t really understand what was going on but we were still able to connect to the service because no matter where in the world, God is always present. It felt incredible to be able to share in the Lord with the people of Guatemala on our final day here.

Following the church service, we then headed to a nearby hotel to rustle up some grub. We made sure to fill our bellies as much as possible because we knew we had a long day ahead of us. After eating, we then had several hours of free time to do as we please. ChiChi is known for its market, so many of us hit the streets and put our bargaining skills to the test. We were able to see and buy numerous different items that the Guatemalans make themselves. It was amazing to see so many people in one place and see all of their own hard work up for sell. Our purchases varied from bracelets to blankets and even jewelry to multi-colored pants and shorts. While some shopped, others took our free time to simply wander and people-watch. There was a nearby cemetery, churches, and tons of people about; so we definitely had plenty of options for exploration. We ended our shopping with some down time at the hotel before departing back to Guatemala City.

Next, we had the chance to see some more of the Guatemalan countryside as we embarked on quite a long bus ride. Even though we were all exhausted and ready to be off the bus, we were still thankful for the ride. This gave us more of an opportunity to enjoy more conversations, some games, and simply soak-in the beautiful landscape. Just by seeing the beauty and scenery of Guatemala assures us of God’s presence here in this country. Upon our arrival back to the city, we checked into Hostal de Don Pedro for our final night. We had the opportunity to enjoy one last dinner out, and even had the chance to meet Emerson’s beautiful baby girl and wife, Sophia and Evelyn. Dinner was amazing as usual, and then we ended our night with a final devotion and reflection.

Devotion gave us all the opportunity to share in all the experiences of the past week. We have been so incredibly humbled and thankful by our time here in Guatemala, and we couldn’t have asked for anything more. This group of extraordinary people found a way to share their thoughts, open their hearts, and see god in every moment; in a way that has left me completely amazed. Tonight was probably one of our hardest times of the trip, simply because we knew it was time to say goodbye to this country and our dear, new friends, Emerson and Annie. Annie is an incredible woman who has a gift like no other. She exemplifies what it means to be a friend and has became very close with everyone in the group. Without her, our trip could have never been the same. She knows what it means to live a life led by God and we will always keep her close in our heart. This goes just the same for Emerson. Emerson has taught us more than he will ever know. He is a true man of God and has inspired each and every one of us to live a better life. He has helped open our eyes and hearts to Guatemala and we will never forget the role he played in our incredible journey.

Even though we will be leaving this beautiful country and its people tomorrow, we will be taking it back with us in our hearts. Over the past nine days we have been challenged, humbled, thankful, joy-filled, and so much more. God called us all on this journey for a reason, and we will leave this country with a stronger relationship with Him. The love we shared amongst each other and the Guatemalans is almost unexplainable, but we can’t to share our experiences more with you all back home. Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers, and please continue to pray for this country. God has been so present in our lives, this country, and our journey, and our gratitude is beyond words.

See you soon,

 

Ryan and the 2013 Guatemala Team

Day 8

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The day started of with a nice relaxing breakfast at Hotel Toliman, as we enjoyed our beautiful view of the lake that we crossed a few short days ago. After our delicious meal and breathtaking view, we grabbed our bags and checked out of Hotel Emanuel. We then trekked across the mountain to Panajachel. The bus ride provided us with the opportunity to see more of God’s creations here in Guatemala. Then we finally arrived in Panajachel at K’em Ajachel, the co-operative micro-loan financed women’s community center–where we learned about the history and current state of the organization and the women that run it. After providing our input on their brand logo, they prepared and served us a wonderful meal. Then we checked into our hotel, Jardines del Lago, where we enjoyed the beautiful view of the lake sunset, dockside. Some then shopped on the streets of Panajachel, where we picked up Guatemalan treasures from local artisans. While some roamed the streets, others simply just enjoyed the afternoon and environment as they relaxed swaying in hammocks or just laying along the shore. We were blessed with a breathtaking landscape and sunset we will never forget. The group then reconvened for a nice candlelit dinner at Casablanca, where we enjoyed authentic multicultural cuisine. After din din, we sat by the lake and enjoyed a wonderful devotion and reflection. This allowed us to reflect on our past few days and take some time to just sit and talk. Following devotion, we then had the rest of the night as we pleased. For some it was hitting the hay and turning in for an early night, while others stayed up to enjoy some more fun. T-Park, T-Pinck, Anni, and Meghan had the opportunity to crash a wedding, do they seized the chance. They hit the dance floor and laughed amongst local Guatemalans celebrating new love. The guys took a night out in the hammocks just enjoying the breeze and good conversation. It didn’t matter what anyone was doing because we have found a way to always incorporate fun into each others lives and it is evident how close we have all grown.

As we approach our final full day here in Guatemala, we look forward to seeing all of you again, but are saddened to leave the country and people we have fallen in love with. We are going to spend our final time here continuing to laugh, learn, and strengthen our relationships with The Lord. Please bless us with your prayers as we continue to keep all back home in our own thoughts and hearts.
Ryan, T-Pinck, and the band

Day 7

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I Can Dig It!
We arose to an early morning excited to begin our work day with La Missión. After a quick breakfast we were eager to get our hands dirty with the Guatemalans…(strictly professional). We began with various construction tasks–from transporting different material to smashing rocks, and mixing cement to tearing down walls. It was an extremely hot day, but regardless we were thankful to work alongside the native people and give back to a community that has given us so much. Our group worked with construction for the first half of the day and we were able to accomplish a lot. Even though we became exhausted and sun-burned, we were grateful for the opportunity to live out the Queen’s motto and serve such humbling people. The physical labor challenged us and have us the chance to encounter something different from the rest of the trip, and by the time we reached lunch, we were ready for a much needed break.
Following yet another great meal that included some Guac that rocked our dirty work socks, we were then underway with another chance to serve. However, our next task differed greatly from our first. We went from getting down and dirty at constructions sites to a more tedious task–sorting out coffee beans. Even though we were all tired and ready for an afternoon siesta (“nap” for all you ‘Muricans), we were still thankful for this time. We were able to have some great conversations and share in more laughter. Everyday we grow closer and closer with one another and to the Guatemalans.
Our day left us covered in dirt, burned, and exhausted. We had dinner and headed back to the hotel for some down time. In the late afternoon, some of us had the privilege of playing fútbol, basketball and tag with many different children. We then concluded the night by coming together for some devotion and reflection time. We continue to challenge one another to grow, and everyday we see how great our God is. We are living happily here in Guatemala and we pray we can bring our joy back home. Please continue to bless us and this country with your prayers.
With Love,
Ryan and the Rock-Smashers

Day 6

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Ladies and gentlemen, we are back we are back! It’s been a fantastic day two here in San Lucas– a day of learning from our Guatemalan neighbors and of soaking up a spectacular day of sunshine, sights, and sounds in the lake-side city. This morning, we spent our time experiencing the work that our Guatemalan brothers and sisters are carrying out in the community. From the women’s center to the health clinic and the reforestation work of Don  Toribio to the coffee project, it was incredible to witness all the opportunities that the people of San Lucas are creating to sustain and promote the growth of the community as a whole. It’s tough to describe in a short amount of words, but lemme tell ya- the work they’re up to is bangin fo shizz!

We kicked the day off like it was the Superbowl (except the lights stayed on the whole time). We began touring the different projects in the city and were able to see how Guatemalans were working for their own change. This included the Women’s Center, the Health Clinic, the Reforestation project, and a tour of the Coffee industry. All were run by the Guatemalans and exemplified their lifestyle–how they are always so full of hope and are so willing to make movements toward a promising future.
The afternoon was probably our group’s highlight for the day. We were assigned to work alongside Don Toribio at the reforestation project- moving plants, absorbing his wisdom about life and cultivating the earth, and whittling/sanding/polishing homemade wooden spoons that our new friends will finish and sell to support the cause of each other and the entire community. It was calming work but hey, it wasn’t no cake walk! It was humbling to witness the awesome talent of the women here, with them being able to produce flawless creations in a fraction of the time it took us to even put our irons in the fire and make something useful outta wood.
After finishing our work we then had some free time for ourselves. Some of us went walking around looking at different stores and buying goodies, while the rest of us enjoyed playing fútbol with some of the other American volunteers we are working with. It was a one caliente day, but one filled with much joy once again. The days seem to be flying by, but we are still doing our best to make the most of every opportunity here. As we are still praying for you all back home, please keep us and the Guatemalans in yours as well.
Ryan and the Goon Squad

Day 5

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To begin right where we had left off, we wanted to let you all know how our home stays went. I think I can speak for us all and to say the least…absolutely amazing! So that you all could be more a part of our experience, we are going to to tell our stories and experiences by group and family. I don’t think that our night could fully be expressed in words, but we will surely try.

Dora’s Family (Ryan, Tori, Brie, T-Park, T-Pinck and Carley)
      Our home stay was one of the best experiences from the trip and definitely the most memorable. We were able to spend time with Dora and her two nieces, Letti and Elva, and we were taught the true meaning of hospitality. All of our time was spent just simply being present to these women’s lives and I think that’s exactly what they wanted. We were able to see God so clearly by the way they live out their lives and just by meeting them, our own relationships with The Lord were strengthened. It was a night of much laughter and learning and all of us left our new family with sadness from having to say goodbye, but with much love in our hearts.
Bernada’s Family (Josh, Brandon and Emerson)
      Brandon, Emerson and I had the most amazing and heart warming experience at our home stay. We stayed with Bernada’s family, which consisted of Bernada (madre), Sebastian (padre), Margarita (23 yr. old hija), Rosy (21 yr. old hija), Blanca (19 yr. old hija), and the youngest of the bunch Jennifer (13 yr. hija). We were all a little nervous and anxious while arriving at her house, but those feelings quickly went away as we were able to experience life the way it should be lived. This family gave up so much for our benefit and we were humbled and grateful by the way we were treated. This family opened our eyes to the real importances in life and we pray that we can live more simply, yet with more happiness, when we go back home. We will never forget the love they shared.
Bonafacia’s Family (Meghan and Lainey)
      Lainey and I (Meghan) had the blessed opportunity to stay with a legitimate Guatemalan family. Lainey actually had stayed with the same family last year. The family graciously offered their only double bed and a delicious home-cooked meal. Their hospitality was evident. The one moment that really touched our hearts was hearing the story of Norma, Bonafacia’s daughter. Norma is in her early 20s and has a young seven month old daughter. Her husband, which they have only been married for one year, is currently in jail. She told her story of what happened to her husband. In 2011, her husband was dating another girl and they were in the streets having a beer. The police arrested him for drinking in public while the girlfriend stood by and did nothing to help him. He was sent to jail and was given a trail date in which the judge sentenced him to remain incarcerated until August of this year. Norma is only allowed to visit him on Mondays for a few hours. Hearing this story broke our hearts because we have heard many stories of injustice while in Guatemala. This was one of the stories that really affected us because we had personally met the people who were suffering from these injustices. Please pray that justice will be served not only to Bonafacia’s family, but to the countless numbers of families in Guatemala who have similar stories.
Noemi’s Family (Ashley and Alice)
       Our home stay was really amazing. We learned to cook meat over the fire, learned how to make tortillas, and learned to weave in a traditional back sling. It was amazing to watch our family love so well. One thing that really stood out was that Noemi and Mario said they chose to only have two children (William and Julisia) so that they can send them to university someday.  Education is so valued here. It is their path to a better future. We ate wonderful food and heard wonderful stories.  Pillow talk that night was awesome, and we were sad to say goodbye the next morning. In one night we had formed bonds that will last forever.
Anselma’s Family (William, Peyton, Zach)
      In our home stay we truly learned the meaning of hospitality and thankfulness. Our family made it feel like a “true” home and we were blessed she welcomed us the way she did. We had the opportunity to play with Suzie, Elizabeth, and Jonathan for hours, and even though we didn’t do much, we laughed non stop and our hearts were filled. The most amazing part of our night had to be when the family had us join them in gazing at the stars. Not only was it a beautiful sight, but we saw how beautiful these people are. The Atz family showed us that home isn’t a building, but the Spirit we carry with us everywhere we go.
Justina’s Family (Natalia, Dr.Mowrey, Katie, Annie, and Brennan)
       Justina’s family and Dr. Mowrey go way back, they have been hosting students since Dr. Mowrey began taking students to Guatemala. As Dr. M said, her family is a “power house” for justice in Guatemala. They experienced great struggle and loss during La Violencia and it was incredible to meet this family whose story we were all extremely affected by when we learned about their experience in class. Our home stay consisted of entertaining four rambunctious but precious children with “Pazo Pazo gonzo” (duck duck goose), tic tac toe, and coloring while Justina taught us how to make tortillas over an open stove (some of us more successful than others – practice makes perfect, right Dr.Mow?) and a yummy dinner prepared by her daughter Sandra. Natalie and Annie tag teamed on the translating, but language was no barrier to the laughter, jokes, and stories we shared. After promising to do the dishes in the morning, we hit the sack and slept muy bueno despite singing roosters outside our window. Justina teased us about over sleeping but we woke to a wonderful breakfast complete with fresh fruit. It was such a joy to meet this gracious family that has such pride in their country, love for strangers and hope for a brighter future for their children.
We didn’t want to leave, but we finally had to say goodbye to our new families, friends, and Chimaltenango. We couldn’t have had a more humbling or God-filled experience, and it will be a night full of memories we will cherish forever. Following our departure we made our way to San Lucas. We had to undergo a 3-hour bus ride, but it was entirely worth it because we were able to see the beautiful landscape and countryside of Guatemala. We looked upon beautiful valleys and hills, gigantic mountains, and had the chance to see many agricultural fields of the country. The bus ride provided us with some time to share our home stay experiences with one another and to also play Mafia, which has become the game of the trip. Near the end of our ride, we came upon an opening that contained a breathtaking lake. We have been given the experience to enjoy another beautiful city and we are doing the best to make the most of each and every experience. The love for Guatemala is burning passionately in our hearts and we continue to be amazed and learn each and every day. We ask that you kindly keep us and this country in your prayers.
Until Next Time,
Ryan and His Humbled Servants

Day 4

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Today was a day filled with ups, downs and all-arounds. We have had times of complete sadness where we were left shocked and dumbfounded. However, we have also had a day filled with more happiness and joy than we thought possible. Guatemala has found another way to touch our hearts and our experience becomes more meaningful and amazing each day.

We began our day leaving the Hostal de Dan Pedro and headed toward Chimaltenango. Along the way we made a pit-stop at the National Cemetery. This cemetery had no comparison to the ones we have back home. It was sacred ground that was dear to the hearts of the Guatemalans. The tombs, varying from packed mausoleums to elaborate structures, were set up almost like a city within a city.  As we trekked through the alleyways of the cemetery, we came to one of the most indescribable sights on the trip. We reached the far edge of the cemetery and found ourselves standing atop a hill, overlooking a massive landfill. Our nostrils were immediately filled with a smell that left us breathless, but what we saw had an even greater impact. Tons upon tons of trash was being stacked into the bottom of this valley. Hundreds of buzzards and other birds circled the site and more and more trash was continuously being brought in by huge dump trucks. As bad as all of this was, it wasn’t even the worst part. We then noticed several people amongst all the trash. Many Guatemalans were walking and digging through all these scraps in search of something of use or that they could sell. They were not being told to do this, but they did so out of necessity. These people were sacrificing their health and pride as they were fighting for their survival and trying to build on their hope. There were even some Guatemalans that were living in tents right alongside all the trash. Our reactions and feelings to this sight are almost unexplainable. Our hearts burned and broke at the sight that lay in front of us. We wept, were angered, and questioned what was occurring. We couldn’t fathom why it was happening, but it was; and it was hard to cope with. We left the landfill speechless.
After leaving the dump and upon our arrival in Chimaltenango, our sorrow was quickly transformed into joy. We made it to the Corazon de Mujeres (Heart of the Women) and were instantly welcomed. Adorable children alongside all of their mothers surrounded us and smiles were brought to our faces. We gathered for introductions and two of the women, Dora and Justina, shared their stories of the past at the time of La Violencia. It was saddening to hear, yet also very inspiring and hopeful. These women, along with many other Guatemalans, found a way to survive despite harsh circumstances and are living today full of happiness and intentionality. Over and over they thanked us for coming to visit, listening to their stories, and just being a presence in their lives. We were all entirely humbled by these beautiful women.
Following our introductions and an amazing lunch, all the fun was then underway. We began playing with all the niños and niñas, continued talking with the women, and began painting two of the rooms located at their organization. As time went on and the paint fumes began getting to our heads, some of us began to go crazy in a good way. Everyone was screaming, singing OneRepublic and Miley Cyrus, and running around non-stop. We played  numerous games with all the children and their spirits filled our hearts with joy. The children would use our cameras, laugh uncontrollably with us, and smile non-stop. The children and the women brought out the best in us and we were able to see God’s light shining through each and every one of them.
As our day was winding down and after finishing painting, we then had the privilege and opportunity to divide up and head for our home-stays for the night. We were split up amongst the mothers and families and invited to stay in their homes. Nervous, but excited, we followed our new families to their village and were graciously welcomed into their homes.  Since all of us were with different families and we each had our own personal experience, you will have to wait for Day 5 to hear how the rest of our night went staying amongst the Guatemalans. Please continue to bless us with your prayers.
With Love,
Ryan and the Children of God

A Day in His Glory

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Day 3

To All the Children of God,
Today has been almost indescribable in a way. We have been humbled…been broken…and had our hearts opened to The Lord. The Spirit is in constant flow here in Guatemala and we are amazed by the faith all people willingly share. Our day has been amazing in nearly every aspect and we would like to share today’s experience with all of you back home.
We began today’s events by traveling to CEDEPCA, the organization in which  our friend Emerson works. Our first session was with a woman named Betty. She talked to us about the violence on women in the country and we were able to hear stories that will remain in our hearts forever. She told us of all the struggles, not only the women face, but those of all the people of Guatemala. We learned the importance of healthy relationships, not hiding our anger, and to organize our thoughts before we speak. After hearing her speak we were able to realize how the sun shines brighter every day if we willingly open our minds and hearts. As we reflect on Betty’s words, we are trying to be more intentional when it comes to “reconstructing the old to construct the new.”
Next, we had a very informative session on Disaster Ministry. This discussion was led by Marsha and Anna–two kind hearted women who have took it upon themselves to reach out to many different communities here in Guatemala to bring a sense of peace to the hearts and minds of many. In search of a Central America that will be well prepared for disasters, these two women have provided psychosocial and spiritual care to those in need when the country is struck by various natural occurrences. Over the course of this session, Anna taught us many different exercises to help decrease stress and grief. She involves herself with many Guatemalans and helps them find peace and relaxation amongst harsh circumstances. Anna concluded by saying how Guatemala is ready to be healed, and for that to happen, they place their hands in God. This encourages us to do the same. We are in wanting–wanting to be healed and in need of our God that we can always rely on, despite the situations we are placed in, as the Guatemalan people have so strongly proven.
Afterwards, we took some to time to reflect on our morning and then we gathered for lunch, accompanied by all of the workers at CEDEPCA. This gave us the opportunity to not only work on our Español, but provided us with time to get to know these beautiful people more. It’s amazing to see how God can connect people from around the world, despite differences in language, culture, or our past. Following yet another delicious meal, we took a group photo with our new friends and shared in their smiles.
A short bus ride later, we arrived at an organization called GAM (Grupo de Apoyo Mutuo). This was a mutual support group that began in 1984. It was created during very difficult times and their mission has transformed from helping families find missing members or loved ones, to fighting against a corrupt government and searching for peace and change in a complex world. We learned that the problems facing Guatemala today have gone from force and warfare to hunger and corruption. These people are facing struggles on a daily basis; however, it is astounding to see the hope they still have in their people and their country. It is apparent that God is working in the lives of many people here as we see their resiliency shine in every moment.
Next, I think I speak for the group as a whole when I say that, our lives were impacted and changed for the better from our next powerful message. The Spirit began working within our team and our minds and hearts were put to the test as we were blessed by the presence of our new friend Erwin “Shorty” Luna. Shorty, an ex-gangster with a troubled past, willingly shared his testimony that will remain in our hearts forever. Since his childhood, Shorty has lived on his own, been faced with troubles we couldn’t even fathom, and even came close to death. However, despite all the challenges he has encountered, Shorty had “tried everything, but had not tried God.” He was able to transform his life by making a connection to our Savior. His shackles were removed and he was able to submit his life to the hands of God, be relieved of his past, and become a part of His Kingdom. Through his troubles, we were able to share some of the most inspirational and thought-provoking conversations thus far. He stressed that it was God’s will that placed us here in Guatemala and we hope to continue to test our faith and deepen our relationship with The Lord.
To say the least, it has been an extraordinary day here in Guatemala. We ended our day with a devotion that helped strengthen our trust and vulnerability within the group. Through reflection and prayer, we found a way to see just how God has touched our lives over the past three days here in Guatemala. We are striving to continue to push our boundaries so that we can seek God in every moment. We ask that you continue to keep our group and the Guatemalans in your thoughts and prayers, as we pray for you back home as well.
With His Ever-Present Love,
Our Humbled Team