Leaving Comfort Zones

This whole trip down to Guatemala was a leap out of my comfort zone. I was the shyest kid you would meet when I was younger, and now God is stretching me to be more outgoing in a language I don't even speak. Talk about a challenge!

We did still make kites of course!

God has challenged me in crazy ways thus far. On Saturday, I went with a girl from my school and helped with a school for children, ages eight to twelve, in a rural area. As I headed there, I simply knew I was helping with a school, and we had planned to make kites. Sounded easy enough, and more in my comfort zone. They started out their class by sharing the Bible story of Noah's Ark. As I sat there listening and half-understanding, the girl who came with me whispered something in my ear. With my poor Spanish skills, I didn't understand, even after she repeated herself. All I knew was that she said something about English. I didn't think anything of it, and just responded saying yes. I assumed she was maybe going to translate for me, or show me something in English. However, I found out after the Bible story was over, that I had actually said yes to telling Noah's Ark in English and then teaching the fifteen kids English for about 25 minutes. I kind of chuckled at God because I knew this was His doing. With public speaking (even in front of kids) not on the top of my favorites list, this was definitely far out of my comfort. If I would have known what the girl was saying to me, I honestly probably would have said no. But God didn't give me the choice this time. It was such a blessing to be able to teach these kids. English is an important thing they need to learn; however, they do not have the resources or English speakers to teach them. God definitely challenged me, but I would not have it any other way. The kids were so joyful and accepting of me. I wish to be inclusive as they are, and I strive to have their joy.

On another note, I have been in a school for over a week now, and I love it! My teacher is wonderful and the school does a phenomenal job at reaching out to the students. There are so many opportunities for me through the school, and I have already been able to meet people from all around the world. Although school is wonderful, it also is extremely tiring. Five hours a day of intensive learning is strenuous and much more difficult than what I expected. Please keep praying for renewed energy each day to learn the most I can!

I have also found a wonderful church family here in Panajachel, who have already welcomed me with open arms and been very supportive. I am looking forward to telling you about my awesome missionary church in Pana. Thank you for all the prayers and please continue to pray for safety, good health, and lots of energy! Adios (for now)!