Waiting. It's a process that I'm all too familiar with, and most of the time, it's never very fun! But, this time, it's kind of an exciting time mixed with all kinds of emotions. To catch you up, if you haven't spoken to me in the last year or so, I have made 2 survey trips to Guatemala this year to learn more about the
New Life School in Santa Maria de Jesus. Both trips were very successful and wonderful!!
The New Life School is a non-profit Christian school for children who cannot be educated in the Guatemalan public school system because of any form of disability. It is located on the side of Volcano Agua, which is approximately 15 minutes from Antigua. Santa Maria de Jesus is a Mayan village that is 98% Mayan and also has the highest rate of poverty and illiteracy in the department of Sacatepequez. It was founded by an American nurse in 2000 and now has 87 students on roll.
I found this school after searching online for Christian mission organizations that work with special needs children. They currently do not have a speech therapist at the school and have many children who could benefit from speech therapy. During my time there, I fell in love with the children at "Nueva Vida" and the mission of this organization. They not only provide the opportunity for education to children who would otherwise not, they also have had a major spiritual impact on the town of Santa Maria. Judy, the founder of this organization, and Amy, their occupational therapist, have been involved with the school for at least 10 years. They are amazing Christian ladies who have a heart for these children and this town. I am so excited to work alongside them and learn from them.
After much prayer and consideration, I have decided to move to Guatemala in the summer of 2012 to begin working with the New Life School. And so begins the waiting period. I am now beginning my preparations to fundraise as I will have to raise all my living expenses for this effort. Although it can seem a little overwhelming, I have so much support and people praying for me that I am at peace about it. So, I ask for you to join me in prayer during this waiting period. I know that God will supply my needs and lead me to where I need to be, although it is difficult to always remember that! Please look for updates as things progress throughout this year! God bless!
