Question of the day: How do your consumer choices affect the ethical decisions of businesses and the global distribution of wealth?
Quote of the day: “No enterprise can exist for itself alone. It ministers to some great need, it performs some great service, not for itself, but for others. Or failing therein, it ceases to be profitable and ceases to exist. ”– Calvin Coolidge
In 1970, the people of Salinas, Ecuador lived in extreme poverty. About 4 out of 6 kids died due to the poor living conditions. The salt mines were a way for the people of Salinas to earn a living and make their livelihood better. Salinas has created several high-quality products including cheese, chocolate and wool clothing that they export to other parts of of the world. We visited Quesera where they make six different types of cheese. We even got to try them and they were delicious! We also learned that 90% of the people that live in Salinas make their living from producing milk for the cheese.
Tasting the cheese!
The salt mines of Salinas, Ecuador was a sight like no other. The walk to and from the mines was about a mile each way, but the view was spectacular, so spectacular that we even got to see a cloud float by right where we were standing. It was hard to know whether we were out of breath because of the altitude of 12,000 feet above sea level or the number of times we walked up and down those stairs! It felt like there were thousands. While at the mines, we learned about how the people from Salinas make their salt, and the reason for their name; SALinas– in Spanish “sal” means salt. The three main sources where they get the salt water comes from craters about 3 feet deep into the mountains they were called el sol, la luna, and las estrellas. In the summertime, the people from Salinas roll down buckets of salt water down to other craters for the water to evaporate, then they boil the left over salt and sell the product to consumers as a source of income.
One of our amazing PCs, Alex.
Group picture at the salt mines!
After our visit to the Salinas salt mines, we had the chance to visit one of the wisest and most accomplished people we personally have ever met. His name? Padre Antonio Polo. Padre Antonio came to the village of Salinas as part of a retreat from his church in Italy. He spoke about a sign that came to him when he came that made him want to stay and help–he saw three huts lined up together with smoke coming out of them all in unison. At the beginning of helping to develop this community, Padre Antonio Polo set a goal of getting rid of the major financial issues the people from Salinas had endured. Padre Antonio Polo introduced the cheese business to the community, which later became one of the greatest sources of income for the community, helping the living conditions greatly. The way the people of Salinas make their living is by helping to produce milk, and every 15 days they get paid by how much milk they produce by the liter. One of the greatest challenges Salinas faces is developing new areas of work for the next generation so the cooperative can be maintained. It took Señor Polo 50 years to help change this village for the better. As Padre Antonio Polo ages and passes on the word of his beliefs and innovations to the community, he also showed us how powerful the act – how the change starts with one person– you. “Fill the world with less arrogance and more with curiosity and love.” – Padre Antonio Polo.
Picture with our esteemed guest!
Playing Jenga
P.S. Our PC Joshua interrupted our lunch to tell us about some amazing news! Smiling from ear to ear he informed us that after months of waiting his girlfriend was approved for a visa to travel to England with him! Congratulations to him and his girlfriend! We are so happy for you.
Yay Joshua!
Sincerely,
Taleya and Anahi
Interesting information and beautiful scenery! We look forward each day to reading about your wonderful experiences. Joseph says “Happy Travels”!
That’s our baby girl, oh Anahi we miss you, but I’m glad you are having fun.. love you
Hola Alexis,
I’m so happy to see you smiling. This trip to Salinas will be my kind of place to visit.
You know why?? I love cheese.
Today is my last day visiting you titi Liz. Heading back home to see Lilly and grandma. Keep smiling and learning about this beautiful culture. Love you ?
The picture with Padre Antonio is priceless!! One man that had a calling/vision 50 year ago is unimaginable. What an inspiration to you all! That could easily be you one day! “Be the change you wish to see in the world” -Gandhi….. words to truly live by. Carter- I can t stress enough how proud I am of you (and all of your GG friends)!! Going out of your comfort zones to make a true difference in the world is amazing. You will all be different people in the end…. people that have made a difference. Love you Carter Madden!! I am one proud mom!! hang in there— mom (dad and joe)
Carter- I was so great to hear your voice today!! Sorry it was so loud at my end -we were in Madison watching Mr. Corvo compete. Right now he is in 4th place. You sounded pretty tired, but remember all your hard work is really helping those in need … James, Bobby and Jake took Joe to Six Flags today ..see your friends like your little brother … we love and miss you ! – mom, dad and joe
Happy Friyay Glimpsers! I can’t believe it’s almost been a week since you left. Each of you are beautiful kind souls. Thanks for sharing your big hearts with the world. Hi Jalynn! Love mom
Not sure if my comment posted. So posting again. Love you Carson! You guys are learning so many interesting historical facts and sharing wonderful experiences with the people and each other. Joseph says “Happy Travels”
Tay,
The country is so green and plush. How was the cheese? Amazing that 90% of the people that live in Salinas make their living from producing milk for the cheese. Looks like a great game of Jenga. Missing you today, and hoping that your days are filled with sunshine and happiness. Love to you and your fellow Glimpsers.
Good Morning Global Glimpsers! What fantastic pictures and stories of your trip. Kristine – When you call again, call on Mom’s phone. You will call again, won’t you? We missed you the first time. Love your Mom, Dad, Corey, Keven and Ripley who keeps walking in your room looking for you.
Dear Jake,
you looks like you are enjoying your trip!!!! have fun and miss you and see you next Saturday!!!!!! love you and just enjoy the rest of your trip!!!!!
Love,
Mom
Ade I miss you so much! I really hope you’re enjoying yourself, sonrisa mija
Hi Carter Madden! You must have been hungry after your climb cause you looked first in line for the cheese samples ..lol!! Looks like another fantastic day ! Hugs , Granny
Hi Zoe,
I am sorry, I guess I didn’t know how to look at the correct site. The pictures are amazing. You have a big smile on one of the pictures that you are by yourself.
Enjoy, We love you very much!
Hi Kristine, I’m going to read more of the blog posts soon. We really miss you. The Ripple Yeager is making a full recovery and getting his stitches out on Monday. He almost got a rabbit today but Mom yelled at him and That scared the rabbit away. The house is a lot more empty without you and I can’t wait to see you so we can get back handing out flyers together – Headas. Please bring me back some Ecuadorian chocolate. I love and miss you.
Hi Glimpsers
Wow! You guys are being educated by, seeing,working and appreciating other cultures.
Love you Zarmani
Grandmommie?
Wow Glimpsers!
What an education you guys are experiencing. Learning and seeing how other people live.
Love you Zarmani
Grandmommie?
Tay,
It was so great to hear your voice today! ❤️ You sound like you are having the best time!! Glad you are loving the food and hot showers ?. Dad also got your email and was so excited to hear that you are having fun. I told him you may be able to call him on Monday so he will have his phone close. Tyler is also sorry he missed you on the phone. He will be commenting for you soon ☺️. What a great experience to see the salt mines and taste the cheese that is made right in town. And meeting Padre Antonio Polo and hearing what he has done for the community is amazing. Also, so happy to hear the Joshua’s girl friend got her visa to travel with him ☺️. Love all the updates of this amazing trip!! Love you Tay!
Hi Carson I can’t wait for you to return home to tell us in person about your adventures I hope your journalizing each moment love ya
What a wonderful entry! You guys are doing a great job! It’s awesome to see a glimpse into your day during this amazing experience! Love you Carson! Thinking about you everyday.
Love TiTi Kimmie
Hi Taleya, I am so happy to see these pictures that you are in, and reading about all you and the Glimpers are experiencing on this trip. I can hardly wait until you return to share. I love you to the moon and back.
Taylor,
So glad your having a great time. Trip of a lifetime. Love, Grandma and Grandpa!
I so agree with Father Antonio Polo’s statement; we definitely need more curiosity and less pride in ourselves and our world! I loved learning about the salt mines. I wondered if I could purchase cheese from Equador in the States? Have fun, Carson (and all!). Stay amazed!! ?
Dear Jake,
It was great to hear from you and you sound great!!!!!! Hugs and Kissed to you and just have amazing time on your trip!!!! Miss you and see you soon!!! Enjoy the rest of your trip!!!!!
Love,
Mom
Jade,
Glad to see you finally smiling in some pics! ? Looks like you’re having fun, enjoy the rest of your trip. You guys seem to be doing a lot of interesting stuff.
Becca,
Hearing you voice earlier put me on the verge of tears, definitly the best part of my day (even if Addy wore pink Crocs and was covered in glitter today). This is the longest we have been apart (since we started to like each other) but you are definitly not allowed to leave me for college- don’t think I could handle it. I am so proud of all the unforgetable memories and relationships you are making. I want to hear all about your experience through your voice- as soon as you have better connection. I am counting down the days until I get to see your beautiful smile and voice.
Missing you always,
Your Favorite Big Sister
What amazing scenery! God Bless Padre Antonio Polo for the work he has done. Becca, I’m excited to discuss with you a comparison with what Padre Polo has done in Salinas and the work that Fr. Barry had done in Kenya. I found the information on the cooperative very interesting. I have read about micro economic programs that help women start cooperatives. I will research more about Salinas.
Becca, I was so excited to hear your voice today! Thank you for calling home. You sound so grown up and happy. Journal, Journal, Journal so you don’t forget a single experience before you get home.
Becca,
The knowledge and experiences you are gaining will effect how you look at your world and you will develop a “new normal”! The blog is certainly brooding my vision of the world through your eyes!
Taylor, it’s such a joy to read everyday the work you are doing, as well as fun all of you are having. PS. thank you for the birthday wishes. Love Grandma
Buenos dias Mi Zoe!
It was nice hear your voice yesterday! I wish you have a beautiful day today and learn a lot!
Te Amo y Extrano! Mommy
Hi Carson!
I’m having such a great time reading each entry. It makes me feel like I’m there with you! So proud of you and excited to hear all about it when you return. Until then, enjoy tomorrow’s adventures!
P.S. I posted days ago but not sure if it was read aloud. Will repost again.
Hello Glimpsers and Jessie, So proud of the work you are doing and all that you are learning. Sending love and hugs to you Jessie. Sounds like and incredible experience! Love, Mom
Heyyyy Taleya I miss you and I’m glad to see that your having fun. I can’t wait until you get back. ? I miss you and love you with all my heart.