Family Lunch

Day of Reflection

As I was having breakfast this morning, I thought that today would be a good day for writing down some of my thoughts. I look back remembering each place, I have been and each person I have met and wonder if I can make a difference in their life as they have in mine. In my prayers, at night, I pray God will give me the resources and the wisdom to help make a difference in these peoples lives.

Despite their poverty, you can look in their eyes and see that spark of hope. Like parents around the world, they want more for their children than they have had. They want the everyday necessities, but also, an education for their children, as they know that that is the key to a better future for the generations to come.

As I have said many times, despite the fact they have nothing, they are happy and smiling. On Sunday, they walk down the street/road, in clean clothes, all holding hands, fathers caring babies as well as mom.

I watched these families for awhile, and even though it brought tears to my eyes, there was a joy in my heart that was indescribable. I think of our families in America and know that the majority miss that feeling of family love and togetherness. We can learn real life lessons from these sensitive loving people.

I have identified many projects that we can do to help these people. Some will take more effort than others, but each one will make a difference in their lives. Several new grant possibilities have come out through Partners which fit right into our plan.

Even though they have come a long way in the past 5 years, there still is much to be done and most is simply in educating and teaching what we have already learned.

On a personal note: I have learned many things while here in Guayaquil, 10 of which I will share with you.

I will never complain about Boise traffic again. In a city of 2 million people, with over ½ driving I think it is a war zone out there. Funny thing I have seen some of the same gestures that are made in Boise. Also try and take a gas mask as the fumes are horrid.

Always remember there is a possibility of seeing a lizard creeping up on you or at least by you, no matter in doors or out.
Don't plan on a hot bath/shower as most of the water is luke warm.
Water pressure is minimal.
You will be drying all your clothes on a clothes line as there is non dryers.
You will eat more food in a 24 hour period than most of us eat in a work week.
Be prepared to kiss every person you meet on the cheek. It's the custom.
Men here are very polite and even open the door for women. They listen to what you have to say and husbands and wives even hold hands in public. Imagine!!!!!

Children are taught tom respect their elders. (Go figure).
Families gather together once a week to have a meal and share their weeks events. Every member of the family is expected to be there.

Activities today:

Went to Patricia's sisters for lunch. They have an awesome house. Gorgeous plants and it was a wonderful meal. Patricia and I then went back to Malacon 2000 to get pictures as I didn't get any the other day, camera had bad batteries. Home now and working on agenda for next week. Busier than the last one. I leave Thursday for Quito.
Bless you all
Paula