Our first priority was to do a check-up on the system installed in Guastatoya, GUA, by the Fayetteville Rotary/First Presbyterian team in April of 2008. We arrived at the Guatemala City airport, by way of Nashville & Houston, right on schedule. Knowing that the filters, bulbs, and coffee in my carry-on could not only arouse suspicion with Guatemalan airport security, but might also result in the assessment of somewhat-arbitrary fees/taxes, I did my best imitation of confidence and self-assuredness and walked directly toward the airport exit without being diverted into the optional Customs queue. Avoiding an awkward Spanish/English attempt to explain what I was carrying and why was a great relief, and the air outside seemed exceptionally fresh.
After a brief delay, attributed to our failure to adjust for Daylight Savings, we were reunited with old friends and introduced to new ones. The 2 ½ hour drive to El Progresso/Guastatoya was punctuated with typical interpreted questions/answers, as well as standard-fare Guatemalan driving—something that feels like “Cross Country NASCAR” for those of us unaccustomed. By the time we arrived at our first night’s destination, there was time for little more than check-in and supper, though we did manage an after-supper walk around the town square/park.
Tuesday was dedicated to an in-depth analysis of the system and a querying of its operators to determine their operational proficiency and adherence to a business plan. Before the trip I was skeptical about the need to carry several repair parts, including an extra bulb for the ozonator. My skepticism was erased when it was determined that every spare part we brought was needed to restore the system to full functionality.
Tuesday evening began with a worship celebration at the church. We used music from a variety of instruments and sources, Scripture, prayer, and a full quiver of both Spanish and English to give thanks and praise to God for our ongoing partnership centered on the gospel and Living Waters for the World. After worship, the community’s Health and Hygiene instructors were assembled for a review with our group. This was a very productive meeting that lasted late into the evening.
© 2009 Todd Jenkins
After a brief delay, attributed to our failure to adjust for Daylight Savings, we were reunited with old friends and introduced to new ones. The 2 ½ hour drive to El Progresso/Guastatoya was punctuated with typical interpreted questions/answers, as well as standard-fare Guatemalan driving—something that feels like “Cross Country NASCAR” for those of us unaccustomed. By the time we arrived at our first night’s destination, there was time for little more than check-in and supper, though we did manage an after-supper walk around the town square/park.
Tuesday was dedicated to an in-depth analysis of the system and a querying of its operators to determine their operational proficiency and adherence to a business plan. Before the trip I was skeptical about the need to carry several repair parts, including an extra bulb for the ozonator. My skepticism was erased when it was determined that every spare part we brought was needed to restore the system to full functionality.
Tuesday evening began with a worship celebration at the church. We used music from a variety of instruments and sources, Scripture, prayer, and a full quiver of both Spanish and English to give thanks and praise to God for our ongoing partnership centered on the gospel and Living Waters for the World. After worship, the community’s Health and Hygiene instructors were assembled for a review with our group. This was a very productive meeting that lasted late into the evening.
© 2009 Todd Jenkins
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