We
then took a long walk (for a while on the wrong road) and ended up at
our destination which was a visit with the Mayan Hands weaving group.
Most of the families of this group were displaced after the mudslide in
2005 and live in very temporary (cardboard, tin, cornstalks, tarps)
housing. There are as many as 15 of the families together sharing one
kitchen which is really only a place to have a fire. They were told
after the mudslide that the government would provide them with housing
in 3 months and it has not happened yet. This is the first group we
have encountered whose spirits were very low. They are continuing to
make their crafts which helps to feed their families but for now they
have no real home. It was difficult to hear their stories and we left
feeling helpless at not being able to assist them. After lunch at the
Elder Center, we went to a few of the homes of the elders. After seeing
their living conditions, it was so obvious how essential the feeding
program at the center is for them. One woman who is blind in one eye
has a small dirt hut for a home.
Three of the men from the Cucharas
Group which means spoon group came to the center to show us their
products. They hand carve small bowls, spoons, salad tongs and ladles
out of several different kinds of wood, then sand and oil the finished
products. They are absolutely beautiful! This is a second or third job
for all of the men and part of their profits are used to help the
elders in their community. The men traveled a long distance to meet
with us and were thrilled when we bought some of their gorgeous crafts.
It is so easy to make people happy here! We were so saddened to hear
that some Americans had previously met with this group, took many of
their wood products and promised to send them money, They have never
heard from them again. I can’t imagine the guilt they must carry from
stealing from these poor people for their own wealth.
Before
dinner, we met with 6 of the scholars from the Santiago area. Once
again I marvel at the sparkle in their eyes when they shared their
dreams which include becoming doctors, lawyers, tour guides, nurses and
teachers. These young adults are extremely motivated, go to school,
help their families, do their volunteering and study very hard so they
can go on to college. All of them were so genuine when they expressed
their gratitude for STDG’s scholarships so they can attend school. Most
of their parents are farm workers and there is no way they could afford
to educate their children. We had a wonderful time talking and laughing
with them during dinner. Some did not eat all of their food so they
could take some home to their families. When they left, there were many
hugs and they prayed that we would have a safe journey. Go to February 24
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