Que Les Vaya Bien

Well, yesterday was my last day at Camino Seguro.  On Wednesday the women gave me a wonderful "despedida,"--the common practice in many Latin countries of having a good-bye celebration when someone is going away.  It really tore at my heart:  not just having to say good-by, but particularly the sadness and concern of some of the women that no one would continue to help them with their reading, and for some that they would not get help when they struggle with math.  I reassured them that the other teachers would help them and that at some point another volunteer would come (as of my leaving it was still unclear when or if another volunteer would be able to come to the women's program).  

The last two days were days of hugs and kisses, tears and gifts, homemade cards and prayers.I also now own more jewelry than I have ever owned.  These women who have so very little buying some small token for me to have as a remembrance of them, or using their scant resources to make a piece of jewelry for me.  Some wanted to take a picture with me so that I would remember them.  I have tried to think about what parting gift to give to them, and have decided upon purchasing some office supplies as well as some items for the reading room:  an alphabet chart, and once I am back in the States I will order several copies of some of my favorite children's' books.  In order for the women to practice reading together, there needs to be at least four copies of each book, and for the most part they only have one copy of each.  They also need more early reader books for the women who are just starting to read.  For sure I will order a few copies of "The Runaway Bunny," in Spanish, and I fund a site with some other really good stories (they teach some type of lesson) that are in Spanish.  

I will really miss the women, but have their gifts and many pictures for remembering them. (The pictures are posted on my Facebook site.)  Although I had mixed feeling about Camino Seguro when I first started,  my time with the women's literacy program turned out to be a true blessing.  More important than what satisfaction I was able to receive, was the fact that I was able to share my gifts and love with the women in a way that helped them to feel encouraged and supported.  My love for them is great, and for that reason, I would consider returning to that program at some point to visit with them or bring a team for a visit.

Hasta Luego

Managed to stay healthy for my entire stay here in Guatemala, but now I have come down with a cold!