Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Guatemala Day 8

For the past three days, we have been living in a remote village called ?Ceboc?. It is located high in the mountains (at 7,000 feet above sea level) which meant a little less oxygen and little more struggling up steep mountain trails. On Sunday morning, we had the privilege of attending the local church service. Although we could not understand any of the 3-hour service, we still felt a sense of bonding as a body of believers through the Holy Spirit. Towards the close of the service, Rob suggested that the class sing some of our favorite songs for the congregation (such as Great Is He and The Doxology). In return, the church's youth group performed their song for us which they had written specifically for our visit. Following the service's conclusion, we gathered outside in a large circle and met our assigned host families. The distances of the journeys to our homes varied from a few steps from the church to an hour long hike. Although all of our stays were unique and even challenging at times, they all shared a few qualities that kept reappearing as the class shared their experiences. For example, each of us have realized the amazing display of hospitality that the Guatemalan families have shown to us. They share freely of what they have - begrudging nothing. And although they are not rich in earthly possessions, they are rich in precious jewels such as their dedicated love for God and their deep regard for family ties.
In addition, Monday morning half of the class chose to take a hike to the very top of a mountain that offered a magnificent view. On a clear day, the mountains that mark the border of Mexico can be seen.
Concluding our home stay this morning, each family sent a guide to lead us back to the designated meeting place. There were many exchanges of hugs, thank-you's, and good-bye's. Twenty-six of us squeezed into the charter bus, and the remaining students and advisors either rode in the cab or stood in the back of the pick-up truck.
Upon our return, the unwashed masses (a.k.a. the students) made a mad dash for the showers. Everyone emerged from the showers feeling refreshed and grateful. We were given the rest of the day to rest and recharge - both physically and electronically. We were also given the option of buying Guatemalan coffee, chocolate, and candles. The proceeds serve as scholarships for the girls at the training center.
Tomorrow, we leave at 5:30 AM for our fun day at the water park. We look forward to this day of sight-seeing and relaxation. After the fun day, we will begin the journey home.
-Grace Crider

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