March 27, 2008

Today we went and met with the ladies organization at their church and listened to all their wonderful stories about how they got the group started and what they did to help the people of Cuernevacca. Each of their stories was unique and special. I was really blown away by their programs and how they teach people about nutrition, art, current events and religion. I was especially impressed by the nutritional part. I must admit that I was starving and it was difficult to stay focused while smelling all that wonderful food. The meal that was prepared for us was probably the best that I have had on the trip, but I was mostly amazed by the amount of love and preparation was put into making it. The people of Cuernevacca are lovely and polite as well as hospitable. I am always touched by the kindness that is shown to me here by the people. Smiling is not hard for them. Affection adorns the streets every where I go. It is either a simple greeting with a kiss or a romantic moment shared by young lovers. I love that! In the US we are so self involved. We don’t take time to kiss the ones we love or show hospitality to complete strangers. I wish we would. Following the lunch, we went back to Cemal and met with the artisans of the surrounding regions. Each of their stories was unique and their cultural differences were manifest in what they were selling to us. We heard about why their work was so important to the economy and to their family’s survival. Can you imagine what the must be like? The poverty out here saddens me a great deal. This place is so beautiful and to see what so many are suffering or living without has opened my eyes to a new perspective. It especially saddens me to see the children working on the streets to help keep their families alive. I couldn’t imagine a childhood like this. In fact, there is nothing childlike about it. These children have to grow up quickly and adopt a work ethic of an adult. They don’t have time to play with their friends or watch TV or play video games. They don’t get to go to school and get an education because it isn’t practical to their survival. I think about my boys and all the things that they have that these children do not. I wish that I could give these children what they deserve.