“Estoy nerviosa.” That was my response to the reflection questions during our nightly delegation meetings. Each night leading up to our arrival in the Nueva Guatemala community in the Petén, I grew more and more nervous. What if I didn’t know enough Spanish to be able to communicate? (Spoiler alert: I didn’t.) What if I couldn’t figure out how to use the latrine or the shower? What if they judged me for being different from them?
When we stepped off the bus, we were welcomed by a parade of children singing, balloons, banners, and more. After a meeting in the ILA San Isidro Labrador church, the other youth in the delegation and I were quickly ushered over to play with the children. Only then did my worries subside.
We colored pictures of different vegetables, and they taught us the Q’eqchi words for each one. We played soccer, pato pato gonzo (duck duck goose), a roosta sha, and more! The children showed such patience and kindness as they explained games to me and asked me questions about myself.
It was so impactful to see children showing God’s love through warmhearted fun. They didn’t care that I didn’t speak their language, didn’t know how to play their games, and couldn’t play outside in the sun for long without needing a break. Those same children were up and dressed and ready to say goodbye before dawn the next morning!
¡Hasta la próxima!
Natalie
Our Savior’s, Circle Pines
A delegation from Our Savior’s in Circle Pines traveled to its partner congregation in August; Natalie was one of two youth members who were part of the group. As a high school senior, she is involved in the youth ministry team, student action leadership team, track and field, DECA, and more. In spite of her busy schedule, she found time to experience God’s work in the world. We are grateful that Natalie shares a “youth” voice as she reflects on her journey for this month’s Caminando Juntos.
