Steve's Reflection

 Steve - Takeaways:

Our family had been on the Cancun trip 9 years ago and I was honestly concerned about doing concrete work, its hard work all done by hand. But while it was hard it wasn’t overwhelming. Whenever you got tired or needed a break there was always someone from the team that would step in or take your shovel. So while the work kept getting done, the people doing the work would change. I never felt like there was a lull – everyone chipped in.  

The other part of what we did involved priming, painting and putting down epoxy on several floors. After we finished the last outside concrete section, we took a little more than a day’s break at Isla Mujeres which was much welcomed to help rest all those sore muscles. It was a really nice break at the end. 

What impressed me also was how devoted our hosts were to God & Family. We always seemed to be surrounded by children, grandchildren and others from the church. Always welcoming, lots of hugs, lots of smiles.

The language was challenging at times as well but had an interpreter, Louis, to help translate and explain how and why things were the way they were. He was invaluable. He actually went to seminary and attended the University of Illinois. His regular jobs are to teach English to workers at one of the Hotels in Cancun, lead AA groups and selling used eyeglasses at the local market.

Another nice surprise was that they found a way for us to watch the Superbowl from a projector and bedsheet outside in their house. It was challenging to try to explain football to those who have never followed the game. 

Overall, I was again impressed by this relationship, this was an awesome experience and testament to living out God’s message. You get to live in a setting much different than what you know and realize that you don’t need as much in life to be happy. Your faith will grow stronger. We were fed well, stayed healthy, made some great new friends, and realized that the world is a lot smaller when doing God’s work. 

Thank you Crossroads for your support of this ministry and what it means to both churches.