bittersweet goodbyes

I said goodbye this week. I still can not quite believe it! The week began with a full fun day visiting Esquipulas with the PT I work with (Esvin), the director of the center, and teenagers from the center. Esvin and Sara planned the day for me and the teenagers so we could all make a few more memories during my last week. We went out to eat at yummy restaurants, to mass at the beautiful Basilica, to a zoo, and a pool. It was a full day but really special to spend time away from Gualan with friends. The last few days at the center were spent soaking up all the little moments like playing with the kiddos, watching telenovela with Deisy, chatting with patients, cooking with Milvila, and helping the directors organize donations. We also had a few crazy storms at night which made for some core memories. I had a “sleepover” with the teenagers during one of the storms. 

And of course I said so so many goodbyes. Lots of tender moments and tears this week. Tuesday the center staff surprised me with delicious lunch of traditional Guatemalan food cake and banner. And Wednesday night Esvin planned a dinner with a few of my patients for me. I received some of the sweetest cards and hugs and words. Needless to say I left with an open heart and the ache hurt. 

I did not go home straight from leaving the center but actually headed to Antigua to meet up with my parents in Antigua for a few days! I was so excited to rest and show my parents around the city I love so very much. It was a joy to end my experience getting to let them in on a little piece of my why. My love for the beauty of Guatemala, the landscape, culture and the people. We explored churches and ruins, and ate delicious food and coffee. And even went to a chocolate making class and hiked a volcano! 

To be honest my heart and body feel like they are limbo. One minute I’m playing dress up with a young girl at the center…massaging a malnourished baby’s stomach… mopping the center floor and the next I’m out to eat with my parents, sitting by a pool and shopping. Right now it feels like two different worlds but I know reminding myself of my mission to love, my passion to serve, and my joy for the little things will help close that gap in my heart as I head home. Though it’s hard I am trying to be gentle with myself through the change. And most importantly keeping gratitude at the center of my heart because there is oh so much to look forward to coming home!