Embracing Belize...

Hello again from San Ignacio,

When we arrived at our hotel yesterday, Eliu gave us two tips for having a successful trip in Belize. He said "embrace the culture" and "embrace the heat". I chuckled to myself when he said it and thought "sure, I'll take in the sights around me and observe the people". How naive I was to believe that I could embrace Belize by observing the culture around me. Only when you've been to Belize can you understand that the people here will draw you in and include you in their culture any way they can. 

It was clear from the moment we arrived at the church today that we were going to be submerged into the Belize's culture... whether we thought we were prepared or not. You see, the people of Belize walked into our lives today and treated us as if we were old friends. There was no separation of the American and Belizean people... today we were one people, with one purpose, one drive, and one heart. All around us there was laughter and smiles and conversations happening in English and Spanish. We didn't always understand what one another was saying, but we understood one another on a deeper... more resonating level. It's incredible how two people from entirely different backgrounds and ethnicities can come together and connect as only brothers in Christ can... with love for God and one another.

The clinic was a resounding success. Last night I told you that we were going to go out today and be helpers for the people of Belize. I am happy to share that we were able to serve 92 people today, by outfitting them with eyeglasses of all shapes and sizes. It was another long, hot day in Belize... but you wouldn't know it from all the smiling faces in the clinic. Everyone was so patient as they waited for us to see them, and when it was their turn they were delighted and grateful to be served. Despite the heat, our team was amazingly energized and very eager to assist. It's hard not to stay upbeat and positive in such a welcoming country.

After clinics today we had another incredible meal, this time in a restaurant arranged by George and his staff. Truly what a blessing they have been for us. After a huge, delicious meal, Eliu escorted us downtown to watch an amazing performance by the Pantempters. The Pantempters are a steel orchestra band that is currently celebrating their 25th anniversary by traveling all over the country performing their unique and beautiful art. (I will attempt to upload a short video that I took of their performance.) It was amazing to stand in the middle of this great city and see everyone dancing and swaying to the music. It is nearly impossible to stand still while listening to the sound of a steel drum... especially when the performers are so passionate as they play. What another incredible experience we got to be a part of today.

The people of Belize have truly welcomed us into their cities and into their lives. In the short time that we have been here we have been shown such kindness and companionship. Here are people of God who embrace everyone they come in contact with, with open arms and open hearts. 

We see you, Belize. We see the way you embrace us. We see the way you accept us. We see the way you value us. We want you to know that we embrace, accept, and value you as well.

Tomorrow we will embrace another location and another church the same way we did today. We can't wait to meet more people and impact more lives. We are humbled and honored to be of service, and we are grateful for your hospitality.

For now we say goodnight, but tomorrow is a new day full of new possibilities.

I'll check back soon.

Bye for now.