Bliss

Bliss. No other word can aptly describe today's experience as our St. Andrew MissionTeam walked with others in Guatemala. During this evening's devotion, after spending many hours together, we were encouraged to spend 15 minutes of solitude reviewing the day. Each moment of reflection created the image of a smile, a hug, a lesson learned and a connection of two cultures that are worlds apart. Pure bliss. Reviewing the images brought goosebumps. An orchestra teacher once said, "If music gives you goosebumps, it must have been wonderful"! Today was wonderful.

Again, the morning started with a savory breakfast that included frijoles (the best black beans in the history of time), platanos, eggs scrambled with salsa, tortillas, hot cereal and that energy-sustaining Guatemalan coffee. Pastor Luis, always inspiring, spoke of Daniel and challenged the team to see the virtue in being rich, not in name or things, but in spirit. We were reminded that our lives become the result of our decisions. We were all happy that we made the decision and took that leap of faith to come to Guatemala.

Activities of all kinds had been planned for the day including the construction of three cinder block houses, moving large rocks to build a wall, a medical clinic and two of the Impacto Ministry's signature programs, "Happy Tummies" and "Abuelitos". As a group, we have been encouraged to try our hands at many of the activities, but it will be difficult for those of us who have witnessed the love and joy at the Hungry Tummies Facility to try anything else.

The Abuelitos program is designed to give widowed seniors activity, fellowship and dignity as they live out their remaining years. We were greeted by these men and women with hugs and kisses, the universal communication. In truth, it made no difference what our group had planned for these gentle souls. They would have been completely satisfied simply to have our presence. Their smiles are life sustaining and were gifted to us the entire morning. Who knew that coloring pages from a "Dora the Explorer" coloring book would bring such peace to those who have lived a life of manual labor? The morning was finished with a chance to try on reading glasses, movment/dancing and medical screenings. We were blessed with such willing participants and have received so much more than we have given.

He's not heavy, he's my Brother in Christ

The day continued with the "Hungry Tummies" program. This program is designed to provide nutrition, education, healthy living skills, recreation, Bible stories, prayer and socialization for local children after they finish school for the day, The Happy Tummies Facility takes on a whole new energy as these children enter the building, stow their backpacks and eagerly wait for what is in store. A few aren't so sure of this new group of missionaries, but others jump in, engaging immediately. It is clear that they are becoming comfortable with these ever-changing corps of missionaries or "Gringos" as we are called affectionately. They were generous with hugs and willing when we asked their names. Some were slightly amused at those of us who tried to communicate with them in Spanish, but also forgiving as they helped us stumble through our "palabras" (words). Many even felt comfortable sharing their limited knowledge of English. Again, it wouldn't have mattered had there been no activities planned. They seemed to be satisfied with connection and affection.

A lap is a very nice thing

Books!

Happy Tummies is a safe place where meals, shelter and love are a sure thing in their unsure worlds. These children step out in faith each and every day and we would do well to follow their lead. Learning to be flexible and taking chances. They do it well. Stepping out of their comfort zones they truly live in those moments that are good and true. One can only guess that they have moments outside of this facility that don't nurture their minds and spirits. Beautiful smiles on little Guatemalan faces. These faces will be in our dreams tonight and for many nights to come. Today, many of us learned what it is to walk in faith, to realize our abundance and to understand that something as simple as our presence and touch are priceless gifts. Today we have been forever blessed. Buenos Noches and be at peace.