Hello parents and friends. Our names are Victoria Hernandez and Pooja Deshmukh. We are the leaders of “Deconstructing Poverty” day (7/7/18). The purpose of today was to analyze the differences and similarities between poverty in the U.S. and Ecuador through a day long trip to Salinas, a small town known for their artisanal goods. Additionally, we considered the following quote: “Give a man a fish and you have fed him for a day. Teach him to fish and you have fed him for a lifetime” — Chinese Proverb.
We started the day off by having breakfast at our food providers, Feroz (Fierce) where we had fruits such as watermelon and bananas along with hard boiled eggs and juice. After breakfast, we proceeded to travel to Salinas where we divided into three groups, each group participating in equally enlightening activities. While some groups explored the salt mines of the town, others were introduced to the local goods like chocolate and fabrics. After numerous invigorating hours, we were honored with the opportunity to listen to the founder of modern Salinas, Padre Antonio. Gaining a deeper knowledge of his experiences helped all of us understand the commitment and drive that has contributed to raising the economic levels of community members in Salinas.
Following Padre Antonio’s insightful words, we enjoyed a scrumptious meal at a pizzeria. Afterwards, we proceeded to learn from the women of Simiatug Samai. These empowering women shared the trials and tribulations they faced in an effort to create a community with a strong foundation. They had hoped to sell hand woven items to advance this goal, and explained to us some of the struggles they encountered along the way.
We then went back to the hotel where we reflected on the meaning of poverty and how it personally impacted us. Overall, getting to experience the soul of Salinas impacted our mentality towards the value of labor and the true meaning of unity.
– Pooja and Victoria <3
What an enlightening experience you all are having. Love you Kathleen!
YAY ! so happy to see you in a picture Nicko…. they are few and far between. im sure there are a bunch taken of you but they don’t make the cut to the blogs. Looking forward to reading your post tomorrow and hearing more about the community action project. Looks like everyone is enjoying themselves. I am sure after today, everyone is thankful for all they have in America!
Thank you Pooja & Victoria! Another day of learning, food, & friends! So happy to see my little smiling face! As I type this, I see ‘today’ is your Birthday!! 7/8, Happy Birthday sweetie! I love you very much! Enjoy your special day! Let the sun shine on your face, breathe in the fresh air, & rejoice celebrating 6,209 days on earth!?
Guaranda Forever??♂️
Hey Pooja, great post! We miss you so much but happy to read that you are having fun and enlightening time!
It’s barely starting to hit me that you probably aren’t going to be here for 7/11 day and it sucks but I’ll still celebrate it in your honor. I hella miss you and I hope to see you soon. Btwww your favorite person from San Diego is back home so we should all hangout together soon:)
Sounds like another great day. Miss you Maralie.
Happy Birthday Schnickelfritz. Can’t wait to talk about your exciting adventure. Love, GC
Thank you for your post, leaders Pooja and Victoria!
Loved seeing your smiling face yesterday Kaia!❤️
Can’t wait to hear your thoughts about what you’re experiencing, especially about “community” in places other than home. Would love to know more about Padre Antonio’s work. Hope everyone’s eating great chocolate! ? xo
Another great day learning first hand the resourcefulness and resilience within the communities. Great post and pictures Pooja and Victoria!