Spanglish: Up Close and Personal
My days in these last ten months have been an emergence into a life so different from my previous one.There has been a variety of cultures, bringing different routines, foods, customs, and the biggest one, language.
I have been around so many different languages that sometimes the routine of hearing gibberish becomes the norm. It becomes shocking and abnormal to hear English spoken around me and when heard, I realize that they too are probably “foreigners” (aka: American or European). On rare occasion, the English comes from a native and it is so refreshing to be able to talk, relate to and know more about them on a intimate level…than just hi, how are you?
When my arrival to El Salvador approached, I was surprised and excited to know that “ministry” would be living with Salvadorian families.My only brief moment of concern was whether I could communicate with my family and that bonding would occur. It was not a big deal; I lived in Brazil for almost a year without really connecting with the language but English speaking native relationships always seemed to be developed. Therefore, either way, I knew I would be ok…but deep down I was hoping for one family member to communicate with well.
The introduction of Sonia was a pure delight. 
She was a few years older than I was and was an elementary English teacher, what a match! My friend Silvia had shared that after praying about where to place the four of us she knew that we would really connect.
I soon found out that in this culture, until you are married you continue to live at home with your father and mother. Therefore, instead of gaining a Salvadorian sister I gained a whole family, mom, dad, and grandma!
This is where my Spanglish really began!
During my time, I felt as if I was relating to the movie Spanglish. It is about a woman who moved from Mexico years ago to the States with her daughter but never ventured outside of the Hispanic community. Her first experience with English speakers was her job as a housekeeper for an all American, dysfunctional, but loving family.
Her struggles included of course the language barrier, cultural and personality differences, and love at large. There were hilarious, heart breaking and challenging situations that occurred throughout her stay. Ultimately, a bond between her, her daughter and the family became real and surpassed any communication or emotional barrier. A must see movie!
These same situations seemed to mirror my own experiences. I did truly become a part of the Castello family and their routines of life. The easiest part was fitting in and enjoying the home life, the hardest was not being able to communicate.
I was blessed to have my own room and bathroom (the first on the race!), with meals waiting for me, morning, noon and night.
These were probably one of my favorite times because we would eat together, and try to communicate through a mixture of Spanish, English, and mime. At least I could say Buenos Diaz, Buenas Tardes, and Buenas Noches, which always seemed to impress them.
Each relationship I soon learned to cherish.
My “dad” was a source of peace and quietness. His mild temperament spoke volumes about his life. His gentleness and dedication to prayer and reading the scriptures showed a life of consistency and faith.
My Salvadorian “mom” demonstrated a life of faith, thoughtfulness, love and servant hood. With a small store at the front of the house, she was the source provider for the family.
Love for the family was shown through the amazing meals, hard work and care that she gave. Our shared connection was a heart for Israel, gardening and love for prayer. I know that I missed many great conversations because we didn’t speak the same language. However, we tried to make up for it through smiles and hugs.
My 86 yr old “grandma” cracked me up! She so badly tried to talk to me and I believe that I would have been so amused and entertained by every word that came out of her mouth.
I know that I was a puzzle to her. She was shocked when I walked around the house without my shoes (apparently unheard of…my feet would get dirty) and very curious about all of my piercings (she had none), and even looked to see if I had a belly button ring (uhh, no!). I almost fell down laughing. Her good intentions were well noted and I even enjoyed her more for her realness and frank approach.
Of course, my friendship and sister hood with Sonia was the piece that made my time so valuable, meaningful, and cherished! Her gentle approach to life modeled one of generosity and kindness.
I loved visiting her school and classes she taught. My time of sharing about missionary life and answering questions was filled with many quizative and interesting conversations with the students.
Through many talks, I learned about her life, desires, and love for clothing
(a woman after my own heart!).
She was an amazing chauffer and was even brave enough to let me drive her car, several times in fact. I was so ecstatic, ahh, the thrill of being behind the wheel.
I sincerely felt loved and welcomed by Sonia’s whole family, including the siblings (her sister and two brothers), nieces, and nephews. Their loving hearts and kind spirits made me easily feel a part of their Sunday gatherings. It was truly a gift to be welcomed into the Castello family.
