Today was very hard work! We mixed an poured concrete my hand. Altogether we mixed 15 fifty kilo bags. For every two bags of mix, we had to shovel and haul 12 five gallon pails of sand and 10 five gallon pails of gravel. We also had to haul water in from another residence because where we were at ran out. Mixing the concrete was extremely hard work but we took turns as much as possible. We all left the site exhausted and covered with concrete but our hearts were light and happy to see the joy on Tiadora's face. Even though we brought our own lunch with us, Tiadora cooked a feast for us. She made chicken with a very yummy sauce, tortillas, rice and beans. Families at La Estación do not eat meat very often because it is so expensive. It must have cost Tiadora's family a lot of money to cook for us but she felt very strongly about doing something for us to show her appreciation for all the work that we did.
It is very cool to think that a little group of high school students from Northeast Alberta could have such a huge impact on a family in Mexico. Tiadora will have a warm, clean and dry bedroom to sleep in and she will be able to cook in a kitchen that does not have a dirt floor. Because of the the compassionate hearts, determination and sweat of this amazing group of students, she will be able to cook, clean and look after her family better than she was able to before. Today we were able to leave a bit of ourselves in Mexico forever.
Tonight we are going shopping in the Artisan Market after our burrito supper.
Wow, I was moved by your story and pictures today, I can't even begin to imagine how powerful your emotions must be by being there and actually knowing and connecting with the family. You should be so proud of yourselves for the difference you have made in their lives. I am sure they must be making a permanent difference in your lives as well. I will include Tiadora and her family in my prayers tonight - along with all of you. We are very, very proud of you all!
ReplyDelete