Sunday, August 16, 2009

Guatemalamala

There are too many stories to tell at this particular time to relate where my journey has taken me. In short I am in Guatemala, and have been for the past month or so. These pictures capture a fraction of the beauty that can be found here. I was able to observe this beauty through the work I have been doing. I joined a nonprofit organization called Quetzal trekkers as a volunteer guide. It is the embodiment of everything that I have asked for. A simple program that raises money for a school for street kids and for a home for otherwise homeless children, by taking people on treks in the mountains of Guatemala. There are six of us volunteers, we are a part of the lives of the kids we raise money for. We play soccer, we eat dinner, we hike together. These pictures come from the hike I am learning to lead. I came back today after six days of trekking, after experiencing a side of the country that many don't, through areas most affected by the civil war that raged for so long here. I am learning so much history by osmosis, by being here, by seeing and feeling the memories of the war that still haunt the people and the land. I have decided that the best things to write about are the things that touch me. I am working on a tale or two so check back soon.






























2 comments:

Matthieu said...

hola Melissa,
you seem to have found a wouderful way of spending you days... Are you near Nebaj???
Sending you good vibes.

Mateo xx

Laney Peach Coyne said...

I was checking out the Quetzal Trekkers website and it looks like such an amazing experience.. especially since you are directly involved with the children.. this is something I am interested in. Ramman and I are steadily saving money, if you are still in Central America in March (haha, quitting march in March, can't wait!), we will see you there.
Muchos besos mi amor~ Laney