Guatemala - Day 6

This morning started out on a high note.  We were seeing children from another school, and were asked to come into the central courtyard before we started. Each child came by and hugged every team member. What a sweet sight to see! 

The kids we saw today were 4 and 5 year olds, 1st graders, and 5th and 6th graders. Several of these kids were in traditional Guatemalan dress instead of the school uniforms we've seen the past few days. Sometimes a parent would come with the child, and it was interesting seeing the Guatemalan clothes.

We learned a bit more today about life in this rural area. Most husbands and fathers still believe it is the woman's primary responsibility to cook, clean, and raise the children. Market is on Sunday mornings. The women sweep the street in front of their house, which is one reason the streets seem so clean. 

We talked with Joy, the missionary we have been working with. Joy oversees the compound here in San Raymundo. The compound houses a hospital, and hosts medical teams about 10 times a year.  Joy also is administrator of a school she started here as a result of teaching Bible classes to some of the local children. God provided for this school over and over again, and the school now has 220 students. 

Terry had an interesting experience today. We told you yesterday about Lindsey's grandfather passing away. She had to fly out today, so someone had to take her to Guatemala City. Terry went with Lindsey and one of the workers from the compound and got to experience how a local really lives - riding in a small car up and down the narrow, steep mountain roads. Thankfully she made it back to the compound in one piece! :-) 

The food has been amazing! Leti, the cook, is a professional. She teaches cooking classes, does catering and has done a great job to keep us from losing weight.

The translators have also been really invaluable. It is refreshing to see how God is working in the lives of so many people of different cultures.

Our evening ended with a devotional by our own Dr. Gary Mayfield and singing led by some of the dental staff. It was refreshing and uplifting to hear the students requesting to sing such old favorites as "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," and "I Surrender All." 

We have one more clinic day. It will be a half-day, and the rest of the day will be spent packing. It has been a busy, fulfilling time and we have seen God work in some incredible ways. But we are all anxious to get home and see our family. Please be praying for safe travel as we fly out Saturday.

P.S. - One thing we forgot to tell you. Fireworks here are a huge industry. You can hear fireworks at any time of day - or night. LOTS of fireworks. At ALL hours of the night. And the roosters and the dogs are still very vocal.