We are learning so many things from the wonderful friends we have met her in Peru,
some are glorious and wonderful, besos and abrazos for example.
Everyone kisses and hugs upon coming and going,
and sometimes in-between.
Meals too, are an expression of love, whether at home, in a park, or in a restaurant,
it is in the sharing and conversation that we find joy.
The people openly show they love to those closest to them, their family and friends.
It is a very common thing to see teenage grandsons accompanying their grandmothers to market,
arm in arm. I love this way of living, and showing love.
As the mission is dividing, we are saying good-bye to those that we have grown to love.
Our first stop was Chimbote, we met with the stake presidents and their wives to
express our love and appreciation for them and the wonderful friendship that has
been formed over the last 2 years.
We didn't expect this to happen only 2/3 of the way though our mission,
but, the time is upon us.
President and Sister Acosta (Chimbote Peru Stake), Presidente and Sister Guillen (Chimbote Sur Stake, The Marler's, President and Sister Mendez (Kurt's 1st counselor)
President and Sister Barrosa (Casma District) and President and Sister Franco
(Chimbote Buenos Aires Stake).
Folks don't just say good-bye, especially before long partings, they talk, hug, kiss and
share the the hope of returning to one another. It is an art of caring, sharing and loving.
Photos are another sign of showing love. Homes have pictures of friends and loved ones on
their living room walls, in photo books and they remember
the name and date of each person and their visit.
We North Americans could learn a lot about the art of the dispedida.
The art of sharing lives with eternal friends.
We took the Trujillo Peru Sur Mission Assistants with us, to introduce them to the Stake Presidents.
As they will be working closely with them over the next few months.
Though it is hard to part, it is worth the love, the friendship and joy that we have found here in Chimbote. We will look forward to seeing you all from time to time at the temple.
…and what joy we will have when we meet together at Jesus' feet.
We love you all, me encanta Chimbote!
