This week has been pretty busy--saying goodbye to Mom and Dad, a really fun birthday party, work, and singing practice. Yes, singing practice! Tim, my new roommate at the Maryknoll volunteer house, and I are part of the Capilla of Exaltacion's music ministers! We went to practice Saturday night for about 2 hours and went over each song twice. And, this morning we sang at the 10 AM mass. I was really nervous, but it was so fun! I really enjoy singing again! Also, since I have been in Cochabamba, I have become more religious. I do not attend mass regularly, although now that I am singing I will be at mass every Sunday morning. But, I have found a deeper spiritual significance. I believe this new understanding has come from working with the children in the Ninos con Valor organization. They have taught me that no matter what you go through in life, you can always still be positive and loving, happy and grateful, kind and respectful! This is a religion in itself.
Also, while Carol was here, we attended mass in the deep Southern zone. In this part of the south, many of the families are extremely poor and very indigenous. Most of the citizens in this area speak only Quechua, an indigenous language. But, the mass we went to at 7:45 AM was one of the most beautiful masses I have ever been to. The people were all so kind and welcoming, even those who did not speak Spanish. Also, the "church" was a recreation center that is being built. There were a few benches and stools for the parishioners. There were no windows and the floor was dirt and rocks. There was only a cross made out of woos and a small shrine--a few candles, a picture, and some flowers. So, religion does not need to be practiced in multi-million dollar churches and cathedrals. Religion can be practiced anywhere, even in an incomplete building in rocks and dirt!
On a less spiritual level, last Friday was Nora's birthday. Nora is a Franciscan missionary in Cochabamba for three years. She is working with Franciscan International and also helping a Maryknoll priest begin a composting program here. But, we went our dancing and it was so fun! We went to a place called Pancho's close to Plaza Colon and we had a blast! We met people from all over South America and a few guys from Kenya! It really is a small world I am realizing here!
This weekend I will be traveling to the Chapare, an very jungley area of Bolivia! Many Bolivians have told me that the Chapare is the most beautiful place in Bolivia. While there, we will visit a coca farm, some eco-tourist locations, hike, and swim in some rivers and lakes! I am looking forward to seeing the Chapare! I will take lots of pictures!
Here is to a good week!
Megan, you are learning the true meaning of the word religion or spirituality. It is all about celebrating life and making the best with what your are dealt. Funny I am typing this because it is what I need to learn myself. There is no way you are not getting just as much if now more than what you are giving the children during this experience. I totally believe in the saying it is in giving that we receive and you are learning this lesson first hand.
ReplyDeleteI loved what you said about the church not being the building but the feeling..dirt, stone, or marble it is the feeling of the people who are worshiping there. I would have loved to celebrate mass in that simple church...
Your upcoming trip sound very exciting. I will be looking forward to the pictures. Be very careful while swimming. I bet you see and take beautiful pictures. Hugs to you and keep up the great work. Love you, A. Nance
Dearest Megs--I wish you were at Tahoe to see Bob Dylan. I feel old, just like that old guitar player. When the young teachers show up at Northern Light, I feel like the old gunslinger. Your comments and observations were excellent. The Giants seem to be doing the slow fade. They are five games out of first. Remind me to tell you about Jason Kidd and Northern Light! (The old assist king will ride again.) I miss you more than you will ever know. Take care, I love you. Dad
ReplyDelete