By Karina Williams, Bilingual Mental Health Therapist at Kennett High School and formerly at Greenwood Elementary
When I first looked at today’s itinerary, I saw a list of destinations. By the end of the day, I realized each stop had a story waiting to be uncovered. From learning about centuries old traditions to reflecting on Guatemala’s painful history, today reminded me that every place has something meaningful to teach us if we’re willing to listen.
Our morning began with a scenic boat ride across the breathtaking waters of Lake Atitlán. Surrounded by towering volcanoes and colorful lakeside villages, it was impossible not to pause and appreciate the beautiful landscape. Before we even reached our first destination, I spotted something that made me smile: a boat with my name, Karina, painted across the front. Of course, I had to take a picture. It felt like a little reminder that joy can be found in the most unexpected places.
Our first stop was Diego’s Chocolate, where we experienced the traditional process of transforming cacao into handcrafted chocolate. We had the opportunity to use a traditional stone grinder to roll freshly ground cacao, and it gave us a whole new appreciation for the time, skill, and care that goes into every chocolate bar.
As we learned more about the process, we discovered that cacao has been an important part of Mayan culture for generations. Diego’s workshop continues to honor those traditions by using organic farming methods and handcrafted techniques. One detail that especially stood out to me was learning that local children design the artwork for each chocolate wrapper. It was inspiring to see a business intentionally investing in its community while preserving its culture.
After spending the morning immersed in Guatemala’s rich traditions, the tone of our day shifted as we traveled to Santiago Atitlán.
We visited Parque de la Paz, Peace Park, where we learned about one of the most difficult chapters in Guatemala’s history. During the country’s civil conflict, the people of Santiago Atitlán experienced tremendous violence and loss. Standing in the very place where these events unfolded made history feel far more personal than anything I could have read in a book.
The memorials and murals throughout the park tell stories of families, community leaders, and innocent lives that were forever changed. While the stories were heartbreaking, they also reflected the remarkable resilience of a community that continues to choose hope and healing.
Our final stop brought us to the historic Catholic church in Santiago Atitlán, where we learned about Padre Aplas (Father Stanley Rother). Aplas was an Oklahoma farm boy turned priest, who faithfully served the Tz’utujil people for many years. Even when his safety was threatened during when the armed conflict peaked in the 1980s, he chose to remain because he believed his place was with the people he had come to love. His story is one of unwavering faith, courage, and selfless service.
As someone who works in mental health, today’s experiences reminded me that healing often begins by acknowledging the stories we carry. Every place we visited held memories of joy, hardship, resilience, and hope. It was a powerful reminder that communities, much like people, continue to grow stronger when their stories are honored rather than forgotten.
Today’s journey was about much more than visiting beautiful places. It was about listening, learning, and gaining a deeper appreciation for Guatemala’s culture, history, and the incredible strength of its people. Every stop truly told a story, and each one left a lasting impression that I’ll carry with me long after this trip ends.