Gloom and glow

1.16.2023

When setting my intentions before coming to Esperanza, I knew that I needed to be open to all the unexpected and unconventional encounters on this trip. It has already not disappointed in providing a largely contrasting version from the Esperanza of previous years.

First of all, the temperature difference is striking but something I was just ignorant about. When talking to Eduardo, our beloved program liaison of 25 years, he said this weather was strange for the people in TJ as well. It is significantly colder and for the last 15 years has not seen rain to this intensity.

Streets are cascading with streams of water. Sediment are gathering at the edges of sidewalks. The rain was characteristic of tropical storm pattern but without the humidity.

Yet, through the grey and gloom, the group is in good spirits. We were not able to work because of the conditions, but spent much needed time with each other reconnecting with Eduardo about the state of Esperanza and Tijuana. It was noted how we can empathize with what the people here may be experiencing at various socio-economic levels, everywhere from the refugees to those whose houses, hillside, are endanger of mudslides impacting their location.

It was a day of mindfulness and presence, and knowing despite our intentions, it is safer for all parties that we stayed put.

Eduardo also let us know that we will be working with a single mother with her sons, one adult and the other in elementary, in helping to build their house’s foundation. Her situation is difficult but she is determined to provide for her family’s wellbeing with the help of her community.

Through the whole day, we chatted, napped, cooked meals together, built a fire in the fire place, toured the posada, and had an amazing baked potato dinner with salsa and guacamole. After we warmed ourselves by the fire singing songs and drinking beers. The jokes were plentiful and success was shared as we finished the first 1000 piece puzzle of the week.

It had been super cold in the rooms but Cole was able to lend me a sleeping bag he didn’t need since I only brought thin blankets. All to say it was a more comfortable sleep!

We are ready for the day to work hard flowing forth from the closeness of community we are already experiencing.

Keep praying for us…