On our last day in Nicaragua, we went to some markets and bought a few souvenirs. The most momentous part of the day however, was saying goodbye. Our Driver, Juan Pablo, had us pick a note out of a bag. All said QUE DIOS TE BENDIGA, but one said REGALO or present. Michelle G got this one and recieved a cross with pictures of Jesus. IT was a nice gesture since Juan Pablo is so religious.
I sat with him today again, and he told me more about his family. He had gone to school until 5th grade and his wife until 3rd. Now at age 35, they live together in a civil union with four kids. The eldest daughter has epilepsy and it has been difficult as she has stopped attending school because of financial reasons and health reasons. I told Juan Pablo about how I want to come back and volunteer in a schoool or with the womens movement yesterday. Today he told me he had asked his wife yesterday about having me stay with them when I come back. He apologized for inviting me into such a humble abode as his without even a bathroom. However, I was so touched that he offered to make room for me despite thier poverty that I thought to give him a pair of Aunt Melissas earings that I wear almost every day of my life. I told him to give them to his wife and thank her for the kind gesture. Of course, I cried a little. Anyway, we are having a final dinner and then packing for COSTA RICA! Michelle G is the BOMB and has already learned so much Spanish! Therefore, we leave Nicaragua with so much more knowledge and so much motivation to do more, see more, learn more and help more. LOVE you dudes!
