Every Year Counts
I love birthdays. Not just my birthday, but anyone’s. As some of you know, I’m even a big fan of taking a birthday month. Why should the celebrating be confined to just one day? I guess I love them because it’s a day to celebrate the life of that one person, specifically. It’s their day to be celebrated and honored. This past weekend my views of celebrating birthdays with the girls in the refuge has greatly changed, and I think for the better. This past weekend we had a birthday party for one of the girls. We celebrated her quince (big 15th birthday party) even though she was turning 16… Read more >>
Dia de Muertos and Jesus
He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.- Luke 20:38 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16 November 1st and 2nd here in Mexico are very important holidays. This is when they celebrate Day of the Dead. This tradition is one that often surprises and intrigues foreigners. These days are meant to celebrate those family members who have passed on. People build altars in their homes with photos of loved ones, their favorite foods and drinks,… Read more >>Viva Mexico!
Today (the 16th) is Independence Day here in Mexico! But in typical Mexican fashion, the party started yesterday. I headed early to the refuge to set up for the party later that afternoon. After all the tables were decorated in red white and green, pots and pans of traditional foods prepared, and hair and makeup done for the girls, the presentation started. Some of the girls had prepared short speeches about how the holiday is celebrated in the parts of Mexico they come from, they did a traditional dance in fancy skirts, and broke their 3 hand-made piñatas. There was lots of food (too much)… Read more >>
Redemption
One of the new girls who came to the house just a few months ago has already left. This is REALLY abnormal as most of the girls are there for years at a time. It’s (hopefully) a happy ending for everyone though as she gets to go live with her grandma and is so excited about it. Although, I know a little of her story and have gathered that this girl does have a lot to deal with and heal spiritually and psychologically. One thing notable about her was her cheerful demeanor. Every time I walked into the home, I was greeted with a big and loud “Hola, Riley!!” followed by a warm hug. She… Read more >>