A Second Perspective on the First Day
Here's another student's perspective on their first full day in Ahuac:
Today we were led by Nilton and Elizabeth up the Peruvian version of the Via Dolorosa and given the unique experience of sharing in some small way in the suffering of Christ. We were still acclimating to the altitude, and so much of the hike was a struggle for us. it concluded at the base of the Cristo Resucitado, a statue meant to commemorate and celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Peruvians gather there every year during holy week to remember the resurrection and it was incredible to spend time reflecting in a place which holds so much joy.
As we sat, we felt the warmth of the sun and the cool of the breeze and the freshness of the air around us. One member of our team pointed out that we could hear five distinct things, and that if those things disappeared it would be completely silent. As people who suffer constantly under sensory saturation and inescapable busy-ness, the stillness which we are experiencing here feels sacred. Some of us appreciated the plants, while others listened to the cultural legends shared by Elizabeth as we climbed.
Elizabeth is working on growing in her faith and hearing the stories she grew up with is invaluable in sharing the stories of how Christ has worked in our own lives. She taught us the names and healing power of the natural springs in the area, like Matorpuquio, and also about how the village people bury their dead up the mountain and across the river so the spirits can not return.
Coming from a Christian, first world perspective, it can often be tempting to dismiss other cultural practices as out-dated or uninformed. Today was an excellent reminder of the significance of putting aside our own expectations and understanding different traditions.
(This is Elizabeth and Nilton- the group's hosts. Who have been inspired by the groups time in prayer and group devotions.)
After a (much needed and appreciated) lunch, we began to prepare English lessons for the children from the village. This experience was so precious and pure- we were blessed by the excitement of the children when they greeted us, their willingness to learn and their patience with those of us who are less familiar with Spanish.
(This is the group on a Combi ride to the school)
We all pushed ourselves and learned more about our strengths, which was special because before, all we could focus on were our weaknesses. The Lord provided confidence and reassurance, along with encouragement from all those around us- our teammates, Nilton and Elizabeth, and especially the kids. We were particularly struck by the joy with which the kids carry themselves, despite difficulties at home. It was sweet reminder of both the things we take for granted and that excess can often become a burden.
-Brooke (Cairn)
Today we were led by Nilton and Elizabeth up the Peruvian version of the Via Dolorosa and given the unique experience of sharing in some small way in the suffering of Christ. We were still acclimating to the altitude, and so much of the hike was a struggle for us. it concluded at the base of the Cristo Resucitado, a statue meant to commemorate and celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Peruvians gather there every year during holy week to remember the resurrection and it was incredible to spend time reflecting in a place which holds so much joy.
As we sat, we felt the warmth of the sun and the cool of the breeze and the freshness of the air around us. One member of our team pointed out that we could hear five distinct things, and that if those things disappeared it would be completely silent. As people who suffer constantly under sensory saturation and inescapable busy-ness, the stillness which we are experiencing here feels sacred. Some of us appreciated the plants, while others listened to the cultural legends shared by Elizabeth as we climbed.
Elizabeth is working on growing in her faith and hearing the stories she grew up with is invaluable in sharing the stories of how Christ has worked in our own lives. She taught us the names and healing power of the natural springs in the area, like Matorpuquio, and also about how the village people bury their dead up the mountain and across the river so the spirits can not return.
Coming from a Christian, first world perspective, it can often be tempting to dismiss other cultural practices as out-dated or uninformed. Today was an excellent reminder of the significance of putting aside our own expectations and understanding different traditions.
(This is Elizabeth and Nilton- the group's hosts. Who have been inspired by the groups time in prayer and group devotions.)
After a (much needed and appreciated) lunch, we began to prepare English lessons for the children from the village. This experience was so precious and pure- we were blessed by the excitement of the children when they greeted us, their willingness to learn and their patience with those of us who are less familiar with Spanish.
(This is the group on a Combi ride to the school)
We all pushed ourselves and learned more about our strengths, which was special because before, all we could focus on were our weaknesses. The Lord provided confidence and reassurance, along with encouragement from all those around us- our teammates, Nilton and Elizabeth, and especially the kids. We were particularly struck by the joy with which the kids carry themselves, despite difficulties at home. It was sweet reminder of both the things we take for granted and that excess can often become a burden.
-Brooke (Cairn)