Today we were treated to a wonderful meal. The woman, Jisela, who has previously cooked for us, asked us back to her home. When we arrived, full of joy and excitement, we were greeted in kind. As we do in the States, we thanked her for having us and asked how she’s been since the last time.
I don’t think anyone could have anticipated her response; we were told that just last night, her young daughter moved out to live with a man. Cue our onslaught of gasps, shock and questions. This is the jist of our knowledge: She is not married. She moved to a different village. It is uncertain if she will continue in school. No one knows if they will live in a house on their own or with his family. He is 22. She is 15. There were no hints, no plans; nothing to prepare the mom for this.
I let you know all this to say, she still greeted us with a smile. She still wanted nothing more than to have these strange speaking Americanos be in her home, eating her delicious food, occupying her Europlast chairs. A friend of mine just wrote a blog about Hospitality. It is dead on. These people I have met in Mogollon are tender, kind, generous and hospitable. No matter the circumstances, no matter the time of day or the amount of food prepared – you are always welcome. No one says, “I don’t have time,â€� “It not a good day,â€� or “I’m not dressed for it.â€� Everyone says, “Come in,â€� “sit,â€� and “would you like some soda?â€� Hugs and kisses on the cheek are mandatory also! J
Today was no different. Five Americans, one translator, the pastor’s wife and three children show up for a meal. Jisela smiled. She had fresh juice in a pitcher, glasses set out, dishes stacked and food prepared. 
After confiding that her daughter had unexpectedly moved out, she was still willing and happy to receive us. We were instructed to help ourselves and sit down.
Then she tended to her four children who still live at home. Can I say that I now dream about beans and rice?! Its amazing how love perfectly seasons food! Back on track…After lunch we had cake that we made and brought for the occasion. Rigoberto REALLY liked the cake. The girls were covered in chocolate! It was fun to see them enjoy our gift so much….However, It was nothing, I mean nothing compared to her food. I might be willing to give up dessert in favor of more moro. J
One of the twin daughters enjoying her food…she was served only after we were all offered seconds. As you can see, she likes to save a little for later 🙂
Some loud, complicated conversation followed. I walked outside to enjoy the view and the fresh air. What I got was a view of a rooster picking at the leftovers that were still in the pot over the fire! (video) Right out the window while the rooster feasted, another chicken walked around with her broad of little chicks. It was all so quaint. As I walked around the back side of the dwelling, several ladies were gathered, chatting (as is universal when ladies get together) as I smiled, took photos and simply admired the surroundings.
an elderly woman sweeping with the prettiest broom I’ve ever seen.
If you look above the caged hens, the mangy dogs and the smell of trash burning, you can see miles of crop farms, mountains, puffy white clouds in the crystal blue sky. It is truly breathtaking every day. Today when I looked up from the baby chicks and the trash disposal rooster, I saw one of my teammates, Alicia, with a few people across the street. I wandered over to see what was going on…bean harvesting. Jisela’s husband tends of acres and acres of farmland, mostly beans, but also corn. They plant, harvest, sort and sell all kinds of beans. Today we came in at sorting. This is a tedious step.
We were welcome to observe” inferred from the empty Europlast Chairs that were put out-but not expected to do much more. Surprise! We wanted to help. I walked over and stuck my hands in, sifted beans and picked out rocks. There crazy amounts of beans to go through. This batch happened to be the red beans..yum! J For our efforts, the farmer gave us some to take home. This gift was not a small gesture either, he gave us probably 10 pounds of beans, out of his crop, out of his merchandise.
The heart of the Lord pours out of these people effortlessly. It is a humbling experience to know that our enjoyment brings such joy to these people. It makes my heart smile to be included like family. Trying not to take more than I give, yet, the hospitality and graciousness of these people sure make it difficult to not walk away with a bigger smile and a happier heart!
happy after blessing and being immensely blessed!
