The Michigan Difference: Guatemalan Style

Bueno  noches!

It is now Tuesday and our trip is sadly about half over.  Our time here has flown by as we experience so many new things--the previous blog posts serve as a testament to that.

The great thing about today is how relaxing it was.  All that stove building was pretty strenuous work.  A lot of the houses were in such remote areas, far away down a steep, rocky hill.  Carrying the heavy parts for the stoves was no easy breeze, and the help from the families was greatly appreciated.  It seemed as if they had less trouble carrying the cement pieces.  It makes me think about how much manual labor they have incorporated into their daily life; even the little kids could carry some of the smaller pieces.  Despite the strenuous work we had, knowing how much the families were grateful for our work really was a strong motivating factor.  They would repeatedly thank us.  I remember on Saturday, a few families offered us some refreshments and snacks, even though they really should be keeping the food to themselves.  The mother of a  Katzhecal family in San Jorge was very thankful: I recall her thanking God for this blessing, for bringing us there to help her and her family.  Her humbleness and the deep appreciation she showed to us was very endearing and heartwarming.  Just thinking about these experiences really made the stove building a great part of the trip.  It helps to remember how much of a difference we're making.

Another thought I have is about the Michigan difference.  Even before attending the university, we students are exposed to the strong notions of the far reach of Michigan's greatness.  Being here on this service trip, I'm starting to realize more about what the Michigan difference really is.  In one aspect, it's the global recognition of the Wolverine pride--we have met people here who are familiar with UM.  For example, during dinner tonight, we spoke with one lady who's daughter actually is the nutritionist for the sports teams at UM!  Such a small world!  And seeing how many Wolverines go abroad, it's no wonder how UM is so recognized.  It's also about utilizing the great diversity found on campus for the greater good.  Campus houses many different races and ethnicities, and with that comes a better understanding and way to comprehend others who are different.  Our group itself is very diverse, which itself is a microcosm of the widespread global infusion at UM.  Having this diversity at school, in my opinion, helps acknowledge and understand what it means to be here.  It's about being aware of our own identities while not allowing it to be inhibiting.  It's about understanding and coexisting, and working together for a greater common goal.

And so, with a few more days left on our wonderful trip, I can't wait to see what more we can experience and what more we can learn.  I look forward to the next few days, as well as coming back home to my loved ones! (but not school). ;)

Kevin Chung

http://picasaweb.google.com/110451788994899868894?gsessionid=n6pdVr6zZWS0pI2z_O4ctA