Guatemala will always be in my heart. In May of 2018, I had my first opportunity to visit Guatemala with my church. My church has a partner church in the small village of Santa Elena, it is so small that it is not even on a map. It is in northern Guatemala, pretty much in the middle of the rainforest. Now you might be thinking, so you went on a mission trip. That is incorrect, we are partner churches. We help out when they ask for it and they help us when we ask for it. Even though there is a clear difference of wealth, there is no difference in efforts. I just need to clarify this because most of the times I tell people I went to Guatemala with my church, they assume I was building houses or helping in someway. I just like to clarify that in no way was this trip a result of the “white savior complex”.
Anyway, this first trip to Guatemala was such an awesome experience that I went again in the October of 2019 (RIP to the last trip I took, thanks Covid). The first time I went, I traveled without my parents. I had other members of my church there with me but it was definitely scary to be in a brand new country without my mom or dad. However, I ended up creating some of the best memories of my life. This first time I went, one of my main jobs was to hang out with the kids in the village. At this point in my life, my Spanish skills were good enough to talk to and understand these kids… most of the time. It definitely was a great way to get better at speaking Spanish. While in the village, we played games with the kids, sang, danced, did a Bible study, and laughed a lot. One of my favorite memories was with the ladies of the village. We did a spa-like night for the women in the village. They never really get recognized for their work or do anything for theirselves, so this was a little weird for them. We painted each others nails and it ended up being just a night full of laughter and connection building.
This trip to Guatemala was one full of new connections and memories, which is what drove me to go back last fall. I would recommend a trip like this to anyone and everyone who craves learning about different cultures and eye widening experiences.
Bible Study
Washing each others hands before painting nails
Playing wiffle ball with the kids
Wow, this was such a cute blog! It sounds like you have been able to travel to many places, but I think this trip is likely one that sticks out to you. I love the fact that you went on this trip to help your partner church. Sometimes you might think you will be giving these children something to gain, but in return, you are really the one gaining perspective on life. Also, those pictures- SO CUTE!!!
Traveling is an amazing opportunity to have in your life but something like this is so much better as it will definitely leave a lasting impact on both yourself and others. I have never been to Guatemala but it sounds like a beautiful and amazing place. I’m so sorry that your trip got canceled last summer but so hope you can return soon!
This sounds like the coolest trip. Getting to know people from a completely different place is so rewarding and it’s so great that you got to experience something like this. I hope for your sake that you can go back!