Chile is…. family. My host family for the month consists of Juan (dad), Elviray (mom), and their children Valentina and Sammy. We were instantly welcomed into their family and treated as their own. Juan and Elviray have given us a place in their home and food for each meal. Juan makes fun of us, each uniquely, while Elviray shakes her head in disapproval. Valentina and Sammy play countless rounds of Jenga with us, speak incredibly fast Spanish in hopes we may catch on one day, share their cookies, and watch Ratatouille with us. This host family is very special to me. Their hospitality and love is unmatched and made me feel right at home.
Chile is…. new friendships. It is a place where coffee dates, sushi making, ice cream runs, and intentional conversations have all taken place with my new Chilean friends. The relationships I have gained through the locals here make my heart beam. They have so graciously given their time to hang out with my team and get to know us. We laugh, make fun of each other and share stories as they show us around their town. These friendships are one of a kind and close to my heart.
Chile is….. hugs. You don’t have to know a person for them to instantly cling to you here. At any moment, you can expect to be greeted with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. They show their love outwardly and boldly; you never have to question it.
Chile is…. a lot of bread. Three times a day, my host family gathers our whole team together and prepares us our meals. They find joy in serving us and go out of their way to make sure we are taken care of (and trust me, our bellies are very well taken care of here). Meal times are very precious. It is one of the few moments in the day where my team and I get to slow down, enjoy each others presence, and get to know our host parents deeper.
Chile is…. overcoming language barriers. Most conversations have been made up of 1/3 English, 1/3 Spanish, and 1/3 hand gestures. The language barrier is something that we are each growing through together, but the Lord has still allowed us so many sweet interactions. We each laugh, smile, and play hopscotch in the same language.
Chile is…. ministry in the school and church plant. Tuesday- Friday, we are in the schools’ English classes from 8:00am to 6:00pm. We get to engage in fun conversations with the students as we teach them English and they teach us fun Chilean slang along with games. Friday evenings, we get to spend time at a church plant here in Antofagasta and their youth. They are lively, welcoming, and never run out of energy or fun games. My heart explodes with excitement at the church plant. This group of youth has captured my heart.
Chile is…. beauty. The people, the beach, and the mountains each carry an outward beauty that reflects the inward beauty of this country. The Lord has blessed this country with endless beauty.
Chile is…. home. A home for the month and a home that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
