Jumping right in!

Since Thursday of last week I have been substitute teaching a Bible class in a local school that we are connected to. First of all, I was glad I could help them out as they didn’t have someone for this week and it gives me the opportunity to learn a lot about the culture! Secondly students don’t hold back when you ask them about what they do and do not like here or really their opinions on any topic, it has been extremely helpful! Also it has been cool to study some bible topics myself and teach students about them. They then in return give me an amazing perspective on the topic and things from scripture as well. I love learning from the younger generation and hearing their voice. At this same school I get to lead a small group of high schoolers every Friday as well, just being an older person in their life they can talk to and hopefully look up to.

The school itself is also really cool! It is made up of 10 or so buildings that equal 35 or so class rooms and offices completely surrounded by walls. In between the rooms are palm trees, play areas, a basketball court and many outdoor tables, making the environment great for doing life as a community. All of the teachers and staff have huge hearts to help students and go above and beyond everyday. It has been inspirational to work with them over this past week especially knowing that even know it is a private school people do make a lot of money and yet you can’t tell. Seeing all the different levels of social classes, wealth and family dynamics has been so interesting and yet they all respect each other and the teachers! Whatever you think about Mexico and its people you can not argue against how they respect and treat their elders. (I am impressed!)

An interesting thing I learned yesterday while talking to a student after their basketball game is that mostly everyone claims to be Catholic. Why? Because they are born into it or what the student said is they are born as a Catholic. They are not even asked if they want to know God or have a relationship. Of course this isn’t everyone but it is very common, so it makes me think how many kids or young adults don’t think for themselves or know what they believe.

Again learning everyday about this city, its people and the culture. It has been an amazing 3 weeks going on 4 and excited to continue to learn from everyone here.