We had a beautiful day at the river with members of the community; uncles, aunts, mothers, fathers, cousins, children and dogs. We were invited down to their local swimming hole, a beautiful spot of the Pacora River. These big gray boulders cascade into clear water with a healthy current and the rocky bottom glistens with flakes of gold – it is the truth.
Immediately when we arrived a few of the women started singing, the voices had such a beautiful harmony. Everyone just listened, and in that moment the world felt small and close together. Next, one of the uncles led the group into Spanish prayer and we bowed our heads to receive the prayer.
I practiced my Spanish by helping translate for Tiffany and Courtney with members of San Miguel’s community. I saw the kids quickly jump into the river with all of their clothes on then I too jumped into the river with all my clothes on. We talked more and laughed more, enjoying the moment, the people and the place.
When we were on our way to leave, the uncle joined us into another prayer, and when he finished he asked me to lead a prayer in English. I agreed, I knew they wouldn’t understand much of what I said, so with the pressure off I thanked the higher power for the precious moment and all the opportunities and blessings that had led us to that point in time. As I blend more and more in with the culture, I wonder what I can give to them in return? How will I let this little light of mine shine through to them?
