Oaxaca

It's been 13 days since I arrived to Oaxaca. But I feel that I have been here for months.

This city feels like home. People are friendly and warm, the food is delicious (I'm pretty sure I've gained 2kg) and the art scene is amazing. I feel so happy and content studying what I am passionate about, being with a supportive group of classmates and professors and living every day fully. 

I am taking Spanish Literature and writing lessons from a retired University professor. I am learning so much about the history of Indigenous peoples, the makeshift of their identity and Spanish grammar. I am also taking guitar lessons 2 times a week, learning how to cook Mexican food with my home-stay mom and teaching English at a Public Highschool (classes are as large as 40 students). I have been traveling extensively and volunteering at underprivileged communities. 

I cannot help but give thanks to God everyday for His grace and personal love in my life. 2 months ago I would have never imagined that my prayers could take me so far. God knows what I like and He has been very gracious for granting the desires of my heart. 

My faith has been greatly strengthened through this experience.

I also prayed to find a good Christian community in Oaxaca. Remember that I connected with a Pastor back in El Savador? He referred me to a missionary/linguist that is translating the Bible into Mixteco. Well, we finally met last week. Upon 1 day of meeting her, I agreed to go to Tlaxiaco (a small town in a mountainous/indigenous area). I know this sounds crazy because I usually don't give my trust to strangers easily. But we had SO MUCH in common - our love for languages, books, traveling, missions and culture. We are both nerds, so the 2.5 hour bus ride was quite fun. Anyways, while I was in Tlaxiaco, I met another missionary who have worked with indigenous communities for more than 30 years. When I asked her that I was looking for a Church and Christian friends, she kindly referred me to another missionary couple in Oaxaca.

We met yesterday, and I learned that these missionaries have been mentoring Church leaders and helping indigenous communities for more than 20 years. They belong to a Mennonite Brethren community (similar to my Church) and hold 'Bread-breaking' meetings (aka the Lord's Supper) every Sunday at a house church. I'm excited to attend their Church tomorrow!

God never ceases to amaze me. His love is so real. I'm so amazed by how He causes all things work together.

On another note, today we went to 'Hierve-el-agua'. Behold the breathtaking views: 

I will try to update more often, but there are so many things going on right now. I've been so busy, but SO HAPPY.

Life is good. God is good.