Machu Picchu!

On Wednesday, the group made it to Machu Picchu!  Below is a student's refelction on that experience...plus a few thoughts on the trek overall and lots of pictures!

**Quick side note:  today is the groups last day in Cusco, this evening they will fly to Lima where they will spend a quick night and then bright and early tomorrow morning head to the airport  for their flight back to the states.  If anything comes up travel wise tomorrow, I'll update the blog.  If you don't see anything here tomorrow, their travel plans worked as scheduled.**

Student reflection:
   Today we woke up early to catch the bus up to Machu Picchu, which was a high point for all of us after several days of trekking.  Our guide, Papa Freddy, gave us a history of the sacred city and we learned a lot about Incan tradition and history.  Freddy was an incredible guide- he cared for us and led us through the trek in a way that was both interesting and fun.  We all began to see hints of the gospel in the stories that Freddy told and it reminded me of the reflections I had made about hearing and understanding different cultural perspectives in order to bring the gospel well to another country.  
   One member of our team shared a conviction they felt from the Lord about asking questions that could have been perceived as pushy or insensitive- again, it's easy to enter certain interactions with a certain attitude, and it's been encouraging to watch those attitudes shift through the weeks we've been here.
   One part of Freddy's story that really resonated with me was about when the conquistadors were invading Peru and Machu Picchu was abandoned, the Spaniards were looking for it and offering bribes, but none of the 600-800 members for their community revealed the whereabouts or any of the traditions or secrets.  This was a testament to the dedication the people had to their home and traditions.  It made me reflect on my willingness (or unwillingness) to remain true to my own faith in difficult situations.
   After hearing the history of Machu Picchu (Old Peak) and exploring the views for a little while, we trekked up Huayna Picchu (New Peak) which holds the incan temple of the moon.  It was 45 minutes up steep steps carved into the face of the mountain, and when we reached the top we were in awe- both of the view from the very top of the mountain and of the work that the Incans did.  We struggled to simply climb up and down, and it's difficult to imagine how they were able to build these incredible structures without modern technology, and it's especially impressive that those structures have so faithfully stood the test of time.  
   We have much to learn from the history of Machu Picchu and it was easy to understand why this is considered one of the wonders of the world.






(One of the unique aspects of Machu Picchu, is that you're not just AT the ruins, you're IN the ruins...walking where the Incans walked...and touching the walls that they built.  What an amazing experience!)


(Their guide- Papa Freddy)


(Picturesque spots abound)




(Llamas just wander around the grounds at Machu Picchu....and yes, you can get up close and personal with them!)


(The classic group shot)

A personal reflection on the trek:
   The trek was physically demanding and all of us were pushed to our limits, but it was particularly difficult for me.  I wasn't feeling well on days 2 and 3 and fell far behind quickly and frequently.  I was discouraged and angry with myself for two reasons: first, I felt like a burden; second, I felt like a failure.  The others in the group showed me so much more grace than I was showing myself and that was humbling for me.  
   Part of me wishes I had experienced the trek differently, because some of the beauty of our surroundings was clouded by the way I was feeling.  The other part of me, however, understnads that the Lord was teaching me why it's so important to accept help from those who are willing to offer it.
   The last couple of days of the trek were incredible- I was feeling much better and able to engage better with both the group and the trail.  Climbing Huayna Picchu was a fun and attainable challenge for me, and it was encouraging to enjoy that part of the trek so much.  
   I prayed before the trip for humility, and the Lord surely delivered.  It's been helpful for me to recognize both challenges and encouragement, and to view both as blessings.
-Brooke (Cairn)

(Brooke and CCO staff Jonny at the top of Huayna Picchu)




For perspective on the next several shots, if you look in the background, the lighter green colored area is the main portion of Machu Picchu....that's how high up the top of Huayna Picchu is!