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Preparing Beyond the Home Front
Hello again!
I’m still in the process of watching and waiting.
It has been quite the adventure just getting prepared for what lies ahead.
Preparing goes beyond the daily spiritual lessons and an occasional Taibo workout. It is important to know about the country and culture before diving into a 15 month adventure.
These general facts on Guatemala gave me better mental picture:
- Area: approximately the size of Tennessee
- Terrain: mountainous, fertile coastal plains and rainforests – HOT!
- Population: more than 10.5 million
- Languages: Spanish, 21 Indian languages
- Religions: Roman Catholic, Protestant, traditional Mayan
- Education: 41% in attendance; 52% are literate
- Agriculture (24% of GDP): corn, beans, coffee, cotton, cattle, sugar, bananas, timber, rice, rubber
- Manufacturing (14% of GDP): prepared food, clothing and textiles, construction materials, tires, pharmaceuticals
I know that the facts are not the only thing I will discover. In a land where more than half of its people lives in poverty, there is an abundance of life. The culture is a reflection of ancient Mayan. The colors are vibrant. The people are open and friendly. The birds and animals are exotic.
I can’t wait to experience it all!
Thank you again for your prayers and financial support. It has been a joy to build relationships with you. I know that when I leave, you will be in my heart to remind me that I’m not alone.
Take care and God bless.
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