So, we have many years of college studying engineering, seventeen more learning even more in practice, twelve years of parenting, fifteen years learning how to be married, and many volunteer leadership roles across a wide range of places. So how can we use these experiences in rural Guatemala, with people who may not speak English? And we don't speak Spanish? (although the kids do!). Well, that is one of our biggest growth and learning experiences so far.
We have lots of practice designing, fixing, leading, and generally getting things done. Now we are faced with a new challenge: a region, culture, and circumstances where "get 'er done" is much less important than "how are you doing?". For all the "love your neighbor" Bible studies have we discussed academically, it's now time to stretch the comfort of our habits and take action on what we say is the most important aspect of live: people. This trip isn't about telling those that we meet the great things we've learned, but using the wisdom from our experience, letting others tell us what they need, and simply being there to help make someone else successful in the efforts they already are working on.
Our job in Guatemala is to meet with several churches there and help make them successful. It's not about how we can change what they are doing, as if we know better what their own people need. It's about us taking the time to understand them and step in to lift them up in their efforts, provide encouragement, and show them that love can cross cultural and social boundaries just because that's what God wants us to do. He made us in His image, an image of love. And that's the best we have to offer!
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