Current Context

It's our first week of training in Guatemala. We've been discussing in depth the context here and in El Salvador in which we will be working. 

I'm simultaneously…

Heartbroken,

over the stories of sexual abuse, systemic poverty, cycles of low self-esteem among women, and a culture of treating women like third-class citizens.

Discouraged,
by the issues surrounding the 36-year civil war and the ways North America contributes to so many problems.

Excited,

 to get to know our staff and to build relationships.

Encouraged,

 by the work MCC's partners are doing throughout Guatemala and El Salvador to educate and create space to think differently about some of the horrific systems.

Frustrated,

 by the width and depth of problems and politics involved.

Wondering, 

if it's possible to make a difference here.

Pensive,

 thinking about ways we can continue to connect our work and stories with North America. 

(Come visit! There are several opportunities to join a group to work and learn here).

Hopeful, 

that we might breathe new life and new perspectives into our work.

Thankful,

for the opportunity to live and work and grow in ways we can't yet imagine.