by Landry Lockett
Everyone in our group has experienced culture shock in varying degrees since arriving in Guatemala. Sometimes it has felt like we’ve stepped back in time, with dirt-floor homes full of smoke from open-fire stoves; to farmers completing tasks with the original horse power.
Other times it feels like we’re on a different planet; complete with languages we have never heard, plants we have never seen, and food we have never tasted.
Many differences have been drastic; however, it has been interesting to observe facets of life that are the same both in the U.S.A. and Guatemala. Just a few examples are as follows:
The power of a smile
The force of thunder and lightning
Momma’s fried chicken
Giggling girls
Boys throwing rocks and playing ball
The song from the ice cream truck that can be heard throughout town
Running to beat the rain
Young lovers and private conversations
The sweet sounds of birds singing
Pride in country
The carrying on of traditions
Flowers in bloom
The universal language of laughter
Mischievous students
Weeds in the garden
Fussy babies
Curious babies
Hard work and stinky bodies
Holding hands
Little girls modeling mom’s behavior
Little boys building things
Parents providing as best they can
Church bells ringing
The desire to be successful
The desire to be happy
Faith, Hope, and Love
These things remind me that there are universal, unifying themes found in the hearts of mankind scattered around the world. Our differences add spice and tell amazing stories. Our similarities bind our hearts together.
I am forever, positively changed by the differences and similarities discovered on this trip.
I can imagine Landry’s smile transcends any language barriers. I love the similarity list especially about Momma’s fried chicken. Keep making me smile. Sincerely, Dr. E.