Hi all, from Guatemala… Well … How to put into words our experience today!! It all began yesterday when we were at the Dump site to feed the people of the village there. The elderly lady that our team has seen every year at the dump. The lady that we were all amazed at as she broke glass to sell to support her family, was there again. Only, this time, she was not the same. Carlos´s brother came to gather our team as we were finishing up at the feeding center. This elderly woman, known as Juana, sat on a concrete block, and appeared to be almost lifeless. The spirit of the lady that we had all witnessed the year before did not seem to be present any longer. As we remembered her as she was, we became saddened and knew something was wrong. Sue and Sal began to question her, with little response, they were able to figure out that she was very ill. As she sat there with one small child clinging to her as if she could not let go, we all listened and watched to see what we could do to help. Preston, who has a medical background, looked at the medicine that she had been given by another doctor, and he believed that it may be what some of the problem was. So, at that point, the team convinced her to let them take her home with the children by her side. Well, what Sal and Sue saw when they arrived at the home, was beyond what they could describe so we knew we needed to step in and help. A team of us was formed for a true mission from God. Our team consisted of myself (Angie), Nicole, Terry, Margaret and Joanne.
We began our day by gathering supplies at the mission´s warehouse. We gathered canned foods, medicine, shoes, soap and plastic containers. We boxed all supplies and headed to do God´s work. Our first stop was the dump site where we knew the family usually could be found. The grandmother, whom is also a great-grandmother, Juana, was asked not to leave her home and rest for the day, but sure enough, the grandchildren found their way to their ¨home away from home¨ to collect food and supplies for the day. We were able to convince the three children to come with us. We loaded their wheel cart in the van, and then we proceeded to their home. As we drove, the children gave Sue the directions as they pointed at each cross road to help us find the way. Once we arrived, our mission at hand began to unfold.
We started by going to the door of the home and introducing ourselves and asking permission to help. As we all entered, we saw living conditions that are hard to describe on this blog, although we have pictures to share when we return. Then, once given the ok, we began to unload the supplies and begin the work at hand. Nicole began with a beautiful prayer that was interpreted by Sue. She thanked the family for allowing us to come into their home. She praised God for the opportunity to do so. She also thanked God for the health and beauty of the children, all twelve of them, that lived in the home. She made certain to mention that she could see God´s work in the strength of the 87 year old grandmother, who is still able to care for the twelve grandchildren that lived in her home. After the prayer, Sue made certain to say that our team was there to do God´s work, and to make certain that she was comfortable with us doing just that. Juana seemed grateful and in full support so the work began. We all moved about the small room to decide who would take on which role. It was almost as if we had practiced our role for the day. Almost as if we have done this a thousand times.
We had forgotten to bring towels so Nicole took her undershirt off and tore it in half. This gave Terry and I rags to bathe the children. Then Nicole began to play with the children by blowing bubbles and coloring with them and showing much love and appreciation for each and every one. As she continued to do this, Terry and I set up our spot in a small outside area that had a sink and water. We began to bathe the children one child at a time. Although they were not too happy as they felt the frigid water meet their skin, they were thankful when the job was complete. After bathing and drying each child, we helped them into new outfits. The outfits were purchased by the mission the night before, and selected by Joanne and Sue. They were each beautifully coordinated from clothing to shoes. After this was completed, the next station was Margaret. She was know as the ¨Salon¨. Each child´s hair was brushed and styled with a matching bow, barrette, or hair tie. Smiles were abounding!!! Laughter filled the air as each child felt a newly gained pride in themselves. Terry and I were able to bath all the children with the exception of the oldest grandson who was 7, and very shy. We gave the clothing for him to his grandmother but did not expect what happened next. While we were handing out sunglasses, fun toys, and candy, the oldest grandson quietly went into the kitchen area, closed the door, and bathed himself. He was actually one of the most covered in soil, and when he came out to show us, he was shinning like a new penny. He was so proud to be clean and in his new outfit and shoes. We all told him how handsome he was and his smile lit up the room.
We finished up by giving the children medicine, since several had colds and coughs. Nicole and Sue explained what to do with the medicine as I gave each child what they needed. They each seemed to know that we were taking care of them, and took the medicine without hesitation or delay. They knew God was working thru us each and every one, to make sure they were safe and healthy. It was truly one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had in my lifetime. I know everyone on our team today shared the same feeling. Truly, to wash the feet of each of those children was one of the greatest gifts that God has ever given to me.
Signing off… Angie Gillis Team Guatemala
First day Construction - Josh, Jay, Jim D., Sam, Rick, Steve, Preston, Mel, Sarah, Lori, and Alicia
Planting – Jim K. Jessica, Chrys, Katelyn, Ken Thom and Alexis
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