Mornings consisted of Spanish class (for me as well! still working on the subjunctive, unfortunately enough) and the afternoons were filled with activities teaching us about issues the community is facing and initiatives the people are taking in response. We dove into topics such as immigration, water, deforestation, education (i.e. lack of funding for education) and cooperatives. I learned an incredible amount, all of this set in a breathtaking corn'field' tucked away in the mountains.
What I will most remember from the week though is, without doubt, our host-family. Grandma, Grandpa, Mom and her four children were, without exception, utterly endearing. Home stays are a part of my job, and while I always appreciate getting to chat with people and hear different perspectives, I don't generally expect to get attached in a week anymore. I think that the 6 year old daughter in this family stole our hearts the first day and throughout the week we (Joe and I) only grew to appreciate them more.
I could write much more about them, but really, what it boils down to is that they humanized poverty for me. I wish that all of my loved ones could meet this family, could see this community, could laugh with them and be touched by the way in which they continue to fight when the odds are impossible. I wish that all of my loved ones could
Small comfort comes from the fact that it wasn't just me out there last week. I was there with 8 students who were hearing the same stories, seeing the same injustices. I am increasingly convinced that only through human connections will we be truly motivated to change...and I guess that's why I love this work.
3 comments:
You are such an inspiration. Thanks for caring and for the reminder of connecting with others and with need. You help me want to go take that path of caring, maybe even so much that my heart breaks. “Oh break my heart, break it again. So I can love even more again” – Sufi
Love you! Mom
I think.. to give happy moments to children is the greatest work. I admire you! and thanks.
Beck! Wow, thanks. Your words you know hit my heart. I read your words and wish I could inspire my students to care enough to make a difference or see the reality that you see. Thanks for bringing me back to earth and away from cynicism. love you and miss you mi amiga!
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