By Ibis Henriquez, Middle School Spanish Teacher in Chester Springs, and Rebecca Villanueva, Housing Stability Advocate at Kennett Area Community Services
We left Guatemala City this morning with Quetzaltenango (aka Xela) at the finish line. As important as the destination was, the journey was just as important!
Our main stop was at the Mayan ruins of Iximche, which was a thriving Pre-Colombian capital in 1470. Surrounded by cliffs on three sides and a ditch with spikes on the fourth, this capital city was home to several ruling families of the Kaqchikel people until the Spanish invaded and burned it down in 1524.
Luckily we got the best tour guide of all Guatemala, Melvin! While at the ruins, Melvin taught us that the Kaqchikel spirituality was centered in one All Powerful Creator and they also believed in many “energies,” both good and bad. Our goal is to take some of that good energy to the families we serve.
After our tour we hopped back on our bus for the long drive to Xela. The time allowed us to recharge our batteries and reflect on everything we have learned thus far.
Learning about the Kaqchikel’s initiative to retell their history has inspired us to go back home and share with our students that many Guatemalans are reclaiming their indigenous heritage. Maybe we can instill in them a curiosity about their own roots and guide them in their self discovery as they build their own identity. That is our hope!
Thanks so very much for sharing – it’s wonderful to see a bit of what you are experiencing and also being inspired by!
What wonderful work you all do! The upgrade on the bus is well-deserved (though I hope bus stories still get told!). Bless all of you for your dedication and love!
I knew that was a chicken bus!! I also knew Mama Bear Carrie would not allow travel on a chicken bus. Have a great day!! Embrace these opportunities!!
Sounds fascinating! Wish I was there!