While I have learned plenty about Guatemala and Guatemalans, this year for me has been more of a reflection on myself and where I am from than a lesson about a different culture.  I have realized that people who live in poverty are no different than people who live in wealthy, developed countries; the difference is in the way the developed world thinks about those living in poverty.

Before leaving the States, I had a very different view of the people I was coming to serve. Words like “underdeveloped,” “poverty,” “machismo” and “lack of critical thinking skills” obstructed my view of their humanity. Terms I had heard used to describe Latin American “culture” were often ways to distinguish ourselves from our Southern neighbors, illustrate their inferiority and justify replacing their practices with our own. This thinking is usually not conscious or intentional, but it is imbedded in media, academic discussion and daily conversation.

Living and working with Guatemalans has been a clarifying experience. As a member of the New Hope Community Development program I work with families and individuals, organizing community events, improving our sweat equity program and assisting with family counseling.  As a member of the town, I have come to know some of my neighbors well. Each person goes through life the way I do, eating, working, feeling hopeful or discouraged, relating to friends.  Hunger in the communities we serve is not a blinding priority.  These people are getting by, trying to make the best of their situation and finding moments of contentment, like the rest of us.  When I think about the problems many face here, they seem no worse than those we face in the States. Depression, obesity and isolation are grave issues that wealth and technology may only make worse.

I believe that while conditions are worth improving here in Guatemala, every society has its problems.  I don’t know what impact I’ve made here but I am sure I have learned the value of Guatemalan skills like hospitality, warmth and community support.  I hope to use these skills to better participate in my own culture.

Katherine just completed her year of volunteering with Common Hope in September.  She worked part time with the Community Development program and part time as an art teacher at New Hope School helping to strengthen creative expression with elementary students and has recently returned to Minnesota.

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