Week One

It has been a week, but it seems like only yesterday I arrived in Saltillo. The Spanish classes have been very helpful, but I can only understand the language it is hard for me to speak, but I am sure it will all come in due timing. I have picked up on the commands to tell the children, "Baja los todos"(elbows off the table), "Bañate"(go to the showers),"Ven aqui´!" (come here) just to name a few. Starting this Lunes, tomorrow I will only be spoken to in Enpañol by the other volunteers. This will be a challege but I know I can do it.

Being the first week here my excitement of the new city is starting to wear off. As I hear the many stories behind each niño who is here. They all have a purpose to be here even though many would rather be at home where their parents are usually absent and they spend their time on the streets. It was difficult to see them go on home Friday night, because they are out of hands and our routine.

For each boy who is here they must meet three requirements: 1. Their guardian cannot financially support them. 2. The must meet with a psychologist who is on staff here at all times during the day. 3. They must have a place to go on the weekends whether it is with a mother, father, aunt, uncle or grandparent. The boys enjoy their time at home because they have no rules.

Anyway in each of their faces I can truly see the face of Christ. They have taught me some much in this past week. They have so little, yet they cherish a smile, hug, and being with their friends who are like their brothers. I have also learned how spirtual the Mexican volunteers and Brothers are. Each one has their own story as to why they are here to help their fellow people. Many of the volunteers are fresh out of high school, and dedicate their life to a year of service. Which many young Americans would never think to live in these conditions at age 18. It is truly beautiful to see them interact with the children, and how the children love them. As their year of volunteering comes to an end they are sad to be leaving the children, but they have all expressed their love and what an honor it was to be here.

As I continue on in my classes although it can be frustrating, but we have a Chapel on site we have access to 24 hours a day, and we can expose the Blessed Sacrament at any time we feel compelled. I have not taken an opprotunty to do so, but I know there will be many nights in the future where I will need to visit the Chapel and send my alone time with Christ. I find myself having many more conversations with God since I arrived here and it is very comforting to know I always have someone to talk to and will listen to me.