Fiestas

Much like the Peruvian culture of "siesta," Mom and I have been well oriented to the concept of "fiesta."

Approximately once a week, a fiesta is held in one of the neighboring villages. The volunteers pile into 4-6 truck beds and are escorted via police (for safety) to the outskirts. The volunteers are greeted with monstrous applause, "Bienvenidos missionarios!" signs and hugs at a parish yard that is lit by extension cords and lined with colorful balloons. Inevitably the first few rows of seats facing a makeshift stage have been saved and a show emceed by a former "America's Got Talent" star commences. Padre Joe typically shares hosting responsibilities and introduces the local children to perform traditional Peruvian dances (in costume). The dances themselves are heartfelt and wonderful. Ultimately, the dance ends when the performers drawing various audience members up to dance with them. Fast forward and all volunteers dancing. When it is time to wrap up, the emcee prompts the firing of silly string and confetti cannons (it feels like the entire parish staff joins for these late night gatherings and participates in the finale).

Some nights, I feel the magic. Sometimes I let myself get swept up in the overwhelming Peruvian hospitality, the music, the glitter falling from the sky. Literally. I see the joy in the faces of my new friends and kids who are collecting confetti pieces and noisemakers in their pockets and/or running around chasing their friends.

But most of the time I feel uncomfortable. I feel uncomfortable that a village with little to no electricity is being asked to expend their resources on a party for strangers. I feel uncomfortable that we are paraded around for fulfilling the criteria of being American and able to afford the trip. I feel uncomfortable receiving hugs and gratitude that is not deserved. I feel uncomfortable seeing the lights go out as we leave and uncomfortable knowing that the exact same events will unfold the next week with a new group of volunteers.

I realize that being truly present and witnessing one's life is one of the most powerful things that we as humans can do for one another. But this is one aspect of our experience I'm still struggling with.

Thanks for your ears/ eyes. Sweet dreams!

K