SAN PEDRO SULA: DAY 3

We observed a new side of the community today through our time together spent cooking and cleaning. Yesterday, the families seemed shy and off put by our presence. Today, we noticed that when together, the children and mothers seemed more relaxed and comfortable. With the mothers and children, we cooked a traditional rice and chicken meal for the workers in the garbage dump. We were able to bond over food and learning about the culture behind the meal. We first-hand experienced the love that goes into meals despite limited resources. While the rice was cooking, we played games with the children such as "truth or dare", or bottle flipping. Even with language barriers, age gaps, and cultural differences, we were able to have a great time and laugh together. After cooking and packaging the meal, we drove to the garbage dump and witnessed the reality of the dump. We were shocked by how many children, toddlers, and babies that were growing up in this dangerous environment.  This was very emotionally challenging for our group, as this is an experience far from our own lives. We were able to support each other and be honest about how we were feeling. On just the second full day, we have bonded as a group and grown in courage to interact with the community confidently.