Spreading “Big Love” in Riobamba

After months of anticipation, our adventure in Ecuador has finally begun. The first half of our journey was a three-hour flight from Newark Airport, followed by a three-hour layover in Houston. We finally touched down in Quito around 11:30 pm. To help shake off our jet lag, we received a warm welcome from our Program Coordinators, Josseling and Yossely. At the airport, we formed the first of many circles and learned the “Global Glimpse Chant.” 

To our surprise Ecuador’s temperature is very comfortable. Our suitcases are packed with warm coats, gloves, scarves, etc but with temperatures around 50 degrees at night and 70 degrees during the day we haven’t needed to bundle up quite yet. It is also a nice break from the muggy heat we just left behind in New York City. 

A private bus escorted us on a short journey to our hotel. Around 1 am we arrived at our hotel for the night. It finally hit us that we are in Ecuador when Josseling told us we can’t drink or brush our teeth with the water. Yes, we are surely far from the luxuries of America we often take for granted. The ladies provided us with gallons of spring water as a nice alternative. 

That morning Gardner led Glimpsers with a mindfulness activity on the lawn. It was the perfect way to set the tone of positive vibes and peace before eating breakfast. Afterward, back on the bus, we went to travel about four hours to Riobamba. Along the way, we were greeted with beautiful mountains and greenery while enjoying our favorite songs. We finally arrived at Hotel Rio and for once in our lives, we have an entire hotel to ourselves. Once everyone settled in we walked to a nearby restaurant for lunch. There we would meet our private Chef Isabella and her son Gabo. Not only is Isabella a great cook, she and her son are two of the nicest people you could ever meet. 

With our stomachs full we were ready to embark on a day of seminars and activities. Following our Welcome Seminar, we did a Circle of Names where we tried our best to memorize everyone’s names. Second, we did a Thorn and Rose Activity where Glimpsers talked about their experiences throughout the day. In addition, we did a Pluses and Wishes Activity where we gave positive feedback about the trip so far. Later on, students generously donated to our future service project.

Glimpsers, Wilsie and Sajel, were brave enough to volunteer to be our first Leaders of the Day. However, this was an honor that had to be earned by displaying their talents. Wilsie showed off her flexibility by doing a split and Sajel blew us away by singing a song. Afterward, all the Glimpsers chanted “Pass the torch” and the ladies received their ponchos to make it official. Wilsie and Sajel went on to present the agenda for the next day and lead us with our Unity Clap. We ended the night with our Big Love Activity where we spread love and thankfulness to each other. Suitably, our word of the night was “Big Love” which is what we plan to spread in Ecuador!

Sincerely,

Your GGLs,

Jasmin & Gardner