Chiapas

After the end of our teaching program in Oaxaca, a few of my friends and I embarked into an adventure in Chiapas, a Southern state in Mexico.

The beauty of Chiapas is astounding.

Places we visited: 
-San Cristobal
-Agua Azul
-Palenque
-Tuxla Gutierrez (which included a free entrance to the Zoo)
-Cañon del Sumidero

The fun part of the trip was the spontaneity factor. We basically planned this last minute. We stayed in $11 Hostels, hopped into a bus that got us to the waterfalls and ruins. We got free entrance to the Zoo, and laughed our hearts out watching animals frolicking around.

I love traveling.

Conversations

[While driving through a freeway in North Carolina]

"Many times, parents hold on to a lot of guilt -that they did not raise their kids well, did not spend enough time with them, etc. And as their children, we also carry a lot of that emotional baggage throughout our lives. The best thing you can do is to forgive your parents, let go of that baggage and live your life. Parents are also humans. They are not perfect."

You cannot change the past. But you can change how your past affects your present.

Love yourself and others wisely.

Let go of that pain. 

Nomad

Moving, drifting, traveling,
Resting, asking, walking.
Living, eating, drinking,
Talking, pausing, thinking,
Being.

Quarter of a Century

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;

You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness

(Psalm 30:11-12).

This Bible verse pretty much sums up my past year.

Earlier on this year, I was very sick and was sent home to recover. At first I was not happy, but little did I know that God used my sickness to renew my health and spirit.

-I rediscovered the love of family and friends. It was so refreshing specially after living years on my own.

-I regained my happiness, health and confidence. 

-I had deep realizations on humanity and love. 

-I was accepted into the International Teacher Education Module in SFU and got to spend 2 amazing months in Oaxaca. 

-And now I get to spend my 25th birthday with my favourite family ever. The Johnsons, a missionary couple I met back in El Salvador, played an important role during my teenage years. They continue to be my inspiration and role models.

The Lord has indeed turned my mourning into dancing. 

I am infinitely thankful for all His love and grace this year. And I believe that there are greater things to come. He is faithful and true. 

My 25th Birthday