For those of you non-Spanish speakers, "Happy Mother's Day!" Today, my second full day in the country, is Mother's Day. The streets of Managua are full of people selling red and white roses and balloons -- red for those whose mothers are still alive, and white for those whose mothers have passed -- and everyone is lively and happy to celebrate. Yesterday, we had quite the party at my house. All of my mama's family came over for lunch -- almost thirty people! We had a live band and set up tables in on the big porch and everyone ate and enjoyed each other's company. The way Mother's Day is celebrated here versus at home makes for a striking comparison. A lot of moms in the states are content with a card or a small present, and maybe a meal in their honor. Here, everyone has the day off work, and not using that day to celebrate in a big way would be like not celebrating Easter or Thanksgiving back home.
I love the festivities, but they are kind of an overwhelming introduction to the culture and my family. There is so much going on and so many people to meet! Also, I've realized my confidence in my Spanish speaking abilities was really untested til now, and it's not as good as I thought it would be. Please pray that I would continue to persevere in practicing and learning the language, so that I can really build relationships with my host family, my co-workers, and the children I'll be helping.
Tomorrow is my first day of work! I'll leave in the morning with my lunch and a prayer. I promise from now on I'll be better at keeping you all informed of God's work in me, through me, and through the ministry at Tesoros. And I hope to post some picture of my home and family soon. Adios for now. Vaya con Dios.
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