It’s mind bending at times to think that Guatemala has been my home for the past three months. It’s been the host of unforgettable memories, newfound relationships, and even the starting line for something new. I am leaving Guatemala with a chip on my shoulder. With a vision that has seen the drunkness of a town and the privilege of another. With a perspective for a life that I hadn’t ever thought was possible before. God has taught me so much.
The the feeling that you get when you’re close to home…the one where that tree or street or building is a clear indicator your close. It will only be another five minutes until you breathe in again those scents of familiarity. It won’t be long and all those memories that have been shared on the front porch and drive way will come rushing back into your mind. I’ve felt that here, and its blown my mind. Parramos, Guatemala has been home to me and the people likewise. They not only posses the GREATEST doughnut for less than a dollar, but carry a sense of small town pride I definitly can relate with. They know where they are from and accept its inability to dazzle at times. I love that so much.
Often we have left for a weekend adventure and people have said “I can’t wait to go home.” Surprisingly, its not for the states, or North Carolina, or my bed (even though sometimes I might think about it), but it is for our base back in Parromos. It’s for that long road that we’ve walked and skateboarded on to ministry. It’s for the dimlit base we’ve all put our mark on in a way. In just three months, this place has become home to us all. I’m honored to be apart of this culture for a short time and share in their rich heritage. I am honored to ride in the chicken bus and drown in the Guatemalans who pack every inch of the buses’s 72 ONLY designated sign where the bus used to operate in the states. I am honored to be here with these people.
The people, in which, have poured into me so much. The Adventrues Guatemala team that loved us every day taught us their vision and hearts in this time. They gave us what the Lord had already worked in them and invited us into their intimacy. Gabe taught me determined fearlessness. Kelsy taught me unbridled confidence. Kevin taught me how to ask biblical questions. Callie taught me about seasoned intimacy. Roberto and May taught me the innocence and courage of following the Lord. All of these people have shaped the way I will live. Thank you guys.
Thank you Guatemala. God brought me into His work in this place. He taught me boldness and revealed so much of who I was. Like bubbles to the surface, He has brought the memory and people of North Carolina back to my heart and mind. He has started a work that I am assured He will finish. God has brought so much revelation about my past, and I know there is redemption for the future. I’ll be praying over Psalm 131 for my time in Thailand. Thank you all so much for your prayers over this time. God is changing me.
Much love,
Will
