Day 7: A Place Called Home

Amy: Those who know me, know I'm rarely at a loss for words, but as I sit here on our last day in Sibinal I can't find the words to express my thoughts and feelings. The people have been unbelievably gracious and humble. The town has quickly felt like home, I missed it last night when we stayed in the cabin. I had not anticipated feeling the desire to return after our hike and sleep in "my own bed." I missed Doña Julia's cooking and her warm inviting personality. While it was nice to spend the afternoon relaxing, watching movies and just being, I would have preferred to do it here in Sibinal. That connection to this place, this town, and its people was not something I had anticipated.

The people here are some of the hardest working I have ever seen. Everything here takes more time, more effort, and more determination to do, to complete. Yet, they do it, and more - taking care of neighbors, being active in their church, raising grandchildren. And their desire to do more, be more, is ever present. It's not about "having more," unless the having provides more opportunities to give.

The economy here is dismal at best, with little to no opportunity for work many have to leave the community to work. While this is beneficial for some of the families here, often those who leave create families of their own wherever they've gone and don't return to Sibinal. Once they have a family of their own to support, little money is sent back to those who remained here.

It's a tenuous balance to provide support and not give handouts. The people are by nature giving and proud, simultaneously they are acutely aware of their need. As one woman said "I could never be right with God if I took what you offer and did not give to others in need." Another spoke of the house they now have, "the roof is wonderful for me and my family, but this roof is for all who need one."

I am looking forward to the work ahead, the beginning of relationships to be built on, and the deepening of connections with the families here! Until the next time Sibinal!

Jasen: Today is our last day in Sibinal, the community is so amazing and giving. I could have never thought I would meet so many families that are willing to give. They offer you the last bit of food, rice water, or whatever they have. They may not know when they will get or have any more or even if there's food for their next meal. 

I would like to thank the GM group here in Sibinal and all the people in the Project HELLO group for opening my eyes to a totally different world. This trip has changed my life and I hope to continue to come back with the team.

We have met with families and have seen the way they live, have seen what we can help with, and helped with what we could.   Seeing that a family's a little happier is all it takes.

My wife (Amy) and I will be sponsoring the Ramirez family to make sure their daughter can attend High School. Here in Sibinal grade school is free, but to go and finish High School the families have to pay.  For people to get out of poverty they have to have education. With us sponsoring this family we hope the education for one in the family will help all in the family. This is only a small part to help the family.

While here I heard a good quote.... "If you are going to believe in something... Then live it!" This trip to Sibinal will start a new and amazing journey in our lives, thank you GM and Project HELLO!