Day Six

It is in physically touching others that we connect ourselves to them. This profound thought was the basis of our morning devotional. The idea that we must reach out to those around us both children and adults, and through our touch show them God´s love. The touch can be anything such as a fist bump, a pat on the back, or even a hug. Jesus knew the power of touch and me must also.

After breakfast, we headed back to El Pino and Nueve de Julio for the work that lay ahead. The clinic team (Barry and Byron) spent the morning building shelves for the medicine in the clinic. They also helped disperse the medicine that we brought with us. The construction team (Sandi, David, Terry, Pam, and Brad) spent the morning continuing to help the workers put the molds in place for the walls and began filling the upper part of the walls for the house. The education team (Mary, Ken, Walter and myself..along with our helpers Tracy, Emilio, and Ricardo) returned to the school to teach about the Garden of Gesthemene...which is actually called something different in Spanish. There was also a mini soccer tournament happening at the same time which caused for many teaching distractions for us, but we did our best. And again, the children just want to be loved and hugged or have their hand held.

As the education team headed to lunch, we got behind a cattle drive which caused us to be a bit late for lunch. But I´ll tell you there is nothing like seeing a bunch of cattle in the middle of the road and cars on both sides trying to get through. It is truly a sight.

The afternoon brought Lisa and Pam to the clinic to help Barry and Byron paint shelves and John to the construction team. The construction team continued to fill the wall molds with cemente. They had to mix, carry, and then fill over and over and over. The team is helping make life better for a deserving family, but their muscles are feeling it. :) The education team returned to the school to teach the older students (4th-9th) grades. This was our first time with them and they had their own set of challenges. For me, I loved teaching them and the thing I found is that they (specifically the 7th-9th graders) act just like those I work with in the United States. It was amazing to see them...especially the boys. I did find myself trying to ´counsel´the ones who were just sitting outside of the school not actually attending....I guess I never stop being a Graduation Coach. :)

After some down time, the team headed out to dinner at another local restaurant. It is fun to see us try and order food from the waiters. I mean between their limited English and our limited Spanish, it is amazing that we ever get to eat. But just like the day before, the company and the bonding with the team is one of the best experiences I have ever had.

Today was one of the toughest for me in terms of having to work...I mean I spoke in Spanish for like 7 hours straight. However, I cannot imagine doing anything else. This has been such a great experience. I can´t believe that tomorrow will be our last day working here in El Pino and Nueve de Julio. I can only hope and pray that the seeds of love that we are laying will grow in the years to come. Till next time, love and do not fear......
--Harvey Oaxaca