A few weeks ago, Bruce, Jan and I traveled to the village of Marías where they lived for many years. Dozens of people throughout the town came up to us, greeting the Bensons and welcoming me--that's the blessing of revisiting the Benson's old home town. We were able to set Amador up with the computer and software he needs to begin working with me on the Huamalies Dictionary. We also celebrated his birthday with a pachamanca with his extended family, including the fun-loving kids below. (More on pachamanca later!) The weekend was packed, but I loved every minute of getting to know these beautiful people and their culture a little bit better.
I had many reminders that I was in a part of the world much different from where I grew up. As we were driving out of town we met workers on the Benson's former street that were installing street lamps for the first time. (We had used flashlights the night before to make our way down the street.) The computer we set up in Amador's home is the first computer in the village. While many of the things I noticed are just differences and not needs in the community, villages like Marías are home to many families without access to hygenic latrines, clean water, medical care, and affordable, healthy food. We CAN play a role in meeting our neighbor's need, as commanded by Christ. (Matthew 25:40 and Luke 10:25-37) A friend of mine in Sudan just posted a link to a world map graphic that describes some of the reality I experienced in Marías. If the world's population were reduced to 100 people, what would our world look like on a small scale? Click on "The Miniature Earth" to find out.
