Today I learned how to make cheesy pasta and fried plantains with a new friend I made the other day. Her name is Pastora and she lives with her sister. Both of them are currently not working because of an unusual sickness. Pastora has fluid stuck in her brain causing dizziness and fainting spells. It’s caused her to lose her job and has to be constantly watched by her sister Paula. They used to open their home to the children in their community and have parties and share the gospel with them. However, they can no longer. They’ve lost a lot of friends just because they can’t go out to do normal things due to this illness.
This has not dulled their love of Jesus though. They are both incredibly strong women and now Pastora is an incredible cook with whom I had the honor of learning from. I have learned very quickly that food is the key to the heart. If someone offers food, ask if they can teach you how to make it. The best memories are made in the kitchen. It’s the easiest place to break the language barrier because cooking is a universal language. Cooking with someone creates a bond like no other.
Not only do you learn a new recipe, but you create a new friend. I also learned later in the day that cheesy pasta is a dish often served among close friends. I am truly honored not only to learn how to make it but to eat it with Pastora and Paula as well. For we truly have become close friends.
