2009 - that was probably my first real experience with true culture shock. The blast of hot air as we left the airport, the less than ideal eating conditions, the reality of how these lovely people were living. It was all overwhelming and difficult and hot.
And now here we are some 15 years later - 12 trips to El Salvador and 2 Nexus virtual trips under our belts. Gosh some things sure have changed. Our ragtag little band of home builders has grown and flourished. Shelter is running like a wonderfully well-oiled ministry here with upwards of 40 local people being employed. All the employees are kind and dedicated and determined to make a difference here.
But some things are still delightfully the same. The local people in the outlying communities are still sweet and smiling despite difficult circumstances. They strive to find new ways to support their families and forge a better way of life. They are excited to join us in building and smile through the sweat as they dig post holes in the sun-packed ground. The view of the volcano in the late afternoon still takes your breath away. Ice cold coke with lunch at the worksite is still the best thing ever. It is still hot.
“It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously— take God seriously.”
Micah 6:8 MSG
Amanda
