Hi everyone!
The last week and a half has been amazing! I’m sure as you all have been reading and keeping up to date. I’ve been trying to find the right words to describe this experience—this mission experience in this country—but the truth is, no words seem big enough. One of the most powerful parts of this journey was getting the chance to do a home visit and meet a truly wonderful family. Sitting in their home, hearing their stories, cooking, cleaning, and sharing life with them, even if just for a short time, was something I’ll carry with me forever. It wasn’t just a visit—it was an invitation into their lives, their struggles, their joys, their faith. It was deeply humbling.
What made the connection even more meaningful was being able to speak the language. It opened up a different kind of intimacy and trust, no need for translation, just human to human, heart to heart. And having some understanding of the culture made everything resonate that much deeper. I’m so grateful for that gift. It reminded me that language is more than words—it’s a bridge, and in this case, it helped bridge continents and hearts.
A fun little moment today was when I saw guinea pigs—cuy, as they’re called here! What amazed me is that they’re not pets like back home; they’re considered a delicacy, a luxury meal. It’s moments like that where you realize just how vast and beautiful the world’s diversity is.
But what’s impacted me most is seeing how God is moving here. Not just in the big moments, but in the everyday lives of people who trust Him with such sincerity and depth. It’s been humbling and inspiring to witness faith that’s not just spoken, but truly lived. And just as I feel like I’ve started to genuinely bond with everyone—locals and teammates alike—we’re now only a few days away from leaving. It sucks. There’s no other way to put it. Saying goodbye to people who feel like family after just a short time never gets easier. But I also know that the connections we’ve made are real, and they’ll live on in memories, prayers, and hopefully, future returns. South America has changed me. This trip has opened my heart in ways I didn’t expect. I came to serve, but I leave having received more than I ever imagined.
-Bre
