Summary of day's activities
Today, our SHPEd Abroad Group arrived in Antigua, Guatemala to begin a 6-day journey of outreach, fellowship, and the accomplishment of personal and group goals. After orientation at the Maximo Nivel HQ, we proceeded to explore some parts of Antigua, Guatemala. One famous part of Antigua that our group came by was the famous yellow-colored arch that is often featured in tourist advertisements concerning Guatemala. In addition, we came across some of the banks, food places, and other outgoing places that our group could go to in case we needed to relax, exchange USD for Guatemalan quetzals, or get something to eat. Afterwards, we arrived at the home of Olga de Molina, our Guatemalan host leader whose family would be taking care of us for the next 6 days. After going out for a few hours, we came back home and got treated to a somewhat lackluster dinner of bologna + cheese sandwiches and soup. Afterwards, we went out for a good night of fun.
Reflection for the first day
What goals do you think are most important?
The most important goals that were spelled out today were the cementing of the SHPE Familia and the acknowledgement of personal goals. Some of the personal goals spelled out were the encouragement of understanding for other members and the dispelment of personal self-consciousness and self-doubt.
What goal(s) do you think will be most difficult to accomplish, in terms of projects?
The goal that will probably be the most difficult to accomplish is the self-consciousness and self-doubt because I have always been hesitant to try out new things. However, slowly I am growing out of that shell. In addition, I need to not take things personal because that will simply make everyone's day bad.
Do you have any doubts?
Some doubts that I have about this opportunity is the willingness of team members from SHPE going to Guatemala to understand me and where I come from. Often times, I feel like people come to conclusions about the way I act about things or they do not take the time to yield patience towards others. Maintaining patience and understanding is the first step in solidifying what the SHPE Familia is.
Famous Antigua, Guatemala street arch that iconisized the small town which was seen as part of our orientation walk today.
Ruins of an old church also seen during our orientation walk today.
Monday - May 5, 2014:
Today, we woke up to a good breakfast of eggs, bread, and fruit. Afterwards, we were driven by a Guinness International van to the work location in the higher locations of Antigua, Guatemala. From 9:00 AM to around 11:30 AM, we worked hard on using cement made from scratch to fill in gaps between conceret blocks as well as using cement to lay bricks on top of to solidify and form foundations for a new library to be built at the village. This library would represent an expansion of the rudimentary education and literacy of the people in this village. Then, we came back to the house of Olga de Molina to change and prepare ourselves for a good lunch at Rincon...
Picture of central park in Antigua, Guatemala from today's walk to the bank to exchange money
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