Today was one of the more emotional days for our Global Glimpsers. We got the chance to see first hand how locals in Nicaragua live on one dollar a day which is essentially twenty-three cordobas (Nicaraguan currency). For reference, a one liter Coca-Cola costs about twenty cordobas. Take a moment to really reflect on that. These families consist of at least four people and up to twenty. They are forced to stretch every penny they earn.
Your leaders of the day, Breanna and Fatima, have some very personal stories to share.
Breanna: Today, I met with a family that consisted of a woman, Candida, her daughter, and all of their kids and grandkids that ran around both of the homes that they shared next to each other. While I’ve had a few years of Spanish under my belt throughout high school, I was nervous going into their homes because I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to communicate very well and not get everything that I had hoped I would get from this experience. Early into the day, I remembered that I had purchased a book called, El Mejor Libro de Palabras, or the Best Book of Words, which featured a word with its corresponding picture in English and Spanish. I gave the book to one of the little boys, Carlitos, and instantly his eyes lit up. His smile in that very moment meant 1,000 words. One simple gesture with giving the book to Carlitos and the reaction I got from him completely changed my perspective and reminded me why I came here. We, as students, represent the next generation of leaders for the world. We, as students, are here to expand our horizons and make a move to connect the world. Today reminded me that I personally need to take action in any way I can. I will never forget Candida, her family, and Carlitos. The next time I visit Nicaragua, I will give more than just one book. Today, I experienced a major turning point in my life. This moment for me, will not be forgotten.
Fatima: Our day started by waking up at 5:00 am, Nica style. We went to La Communidad de Prusias. I was with the Espinoza family which completetly touched my heart. There was a large shack with two other small ones in their backyard held a total of twelve family members not including the roosters, dog, and calves. I had the chance to have the little kid in me come out (even more) by playing with the little boys in the family. I learned several things: people are happy with whatever they have, we are fortunate with education, and that there may not be words to explain what everyone experienced. I taught them how to play tic-tac toe, and the kids taught me how to play canicas (hitting marbles together, I sucked.) This family lives on 1 meal that is just rice flavored with about three slices of onion which is supposed to feed the whole family. As the mom was gathering the oil, rice, and onion, Gerald, the youngest, yelled at her “PONLE MAS” (put more oil), which automatically made me think about my mom, and how much food she feeds me. Yet, I can never be satisfied. But, this kid was happy because his mom added a slight more oil than usual. Having a conversation with the mom, she explained that her opportunity to leave the community through traveling abroad was, in a way, prohibited by her dad because he did not let her leave. We constantly complain about how much homework we have, how early we wake up, but we are extremely fortunate. Yet, this is still not a coherent feeling about what I personally witnessed. There is still so much to learn and experience.
Ending the night, there were a lot of strong emotions from every single group member. We all processed this experience differently, yet we were able to share our thoughts in a healthy, constructive way. We all needed a reality check in why we are here, what is our mission, and how do we feel about it? So, when you ask your daughter, son, friend, etc. How do you feel? Just know, there is more to it than just “It went well.”
Thank you for sharing with us what must have been an emotionally draining day.
But thank you as well for showing us that there is hope…whether it’s sharing something as simple as a book, or sharing a meal with those less fortunate…you’ve shown us all that there are still hope for those in need.
Stay well, be safe and keep up the great work. Proud of you all.
It sounds like an emotional day for all of the Glimpsers. The poverty that everyone witnessed could teach a valuable lesson to all upon comparison to U.S culture and values. Fatimas’ story touched me because she expressed that the smallest details throughout her day, like the use of oil to cook, are things we often overlook and even take for granted. I think we all ultimately express our discomfort with the reality of poverty in different ways. What makes me proud of the Glimpsers is that they are there to learn and use this experience to help shape future choices for themselves and the world they live in. Life could reveal uncomfortable realities like the ones perhaps experienced today, but I think what’s important about this trip is to propel Glimpsers what could be done to make a difference.
Hi Fatima , it is me your mother I was crying reading the story that your shared . Also at the same time I was very happy and proud of you because you are having a wonderful time at the same time emotional too, you are having the time to reflect upon all that you have and comparing with what they have. We are very lucky and blessed living in a country where we have all the services and education. I believe when you come back your going to remember all those experiences and share them with others. I love you and I am so proud of you.
I’m very happy that you have taken this opportunity to go out into a world that you have never really seen and understand the world you never really experience. Just by reading this you’ve shown that this has impacted you and has opened your eyes to things we all take for granted, I love you and am very proud of you Fatima M.- Papa Bryan
Truer words were never spoken – you all ARE the next generation of leaders. I am so thankful because I think you will do so much more good than we have been able to. Breanna – I am so Incredibly PROUD of you. You take my breath away sometimes.
To all of you global glimpsers – make a difference and lead with your heart. As you are already doing.
Xoxo xox
It is amazing to know how these experiences have been impacting each of you individually, how important it is for Nicaragua people to see each of you and share the reachness of what they have which is their culture, their family, their customs and their strengthened spirit to live and enjoy with what they have.
I’m so proud of each of you and happy to heard how these experiences are helping each of you to learn and value what you have.
We love you so much Jenny and we are happy you are having this opportunity in your life and hoping many more to come and helping you to make a big difference in people’s lives.
Yeni R.
Hi, Samari you have been chosen for this mission. Your life will difinely be much different when you return, you never appreciate what you have until you experience what others don’t have. You are a compassionate person, I know you want to help everyone that you come in contact with. Learn all you can , you have many journeys ahead. ❤️ Nana…
True all experiences are never forgotten,this is how we all learn to be more compassionate to others that are less fortunate. God bless all of you,
What a experience this must have been. I couldn’t imagine living for a dollar a day. Wow, that really makes you think. Our simple life pleasures we enjoy could be someone else fortune for a year. ? Well enjoy, reflect, and love everyone you come in contact with.
I Love you Samari..