Blessings seem to always come in unique and unexpected packages.

Blessings seem to always come in unique and unexpected packages. I came out to LA with the expectation of being in solidarity with the poor by trying to live a life of simplicity. I knew that I would be living with little money and few resources. Not being able to eat out when I please, and not having the means to eat meat on a regular bases, has not hindered me nor has it truly forced me to live simpler either, but instead this life style have forced me to live creatively. Sometimes every meal seems like an adventure. The other day I went to Ben Wickstrom’s cousin’s (Haley’s) house. She fixed us some amazing seviche (cerviche) with sweet potatoes. This was the first time I ate seviche, which is raw fish marinated in lime and it was absolute exquisite.

I also enjoy going to the street vendors from time to time. Around my neighborhood especially, there are several Taco Trucks. They are like Ice Cream trucks that sell tacos, burritos and quesadillas. And yes Matt, they do have Lengua Burritos out here, and yes, I do have to use my broken Spanish to order. However much I enjoy these places I am only able to go once in a while, which makes them all that much more special.

One thing that I didn’t know coming out to Los Angeles was that I would have to find my strength to keep me going through the poor and others. I have been so autonomous and self-sufficient for so long that I have completely forgotten that there is a world out there beyond what I can see. I thought that during my stay in Los Angeles I would be helping others, which may very well be the case, but I never expected others to help me.

One of the many examples of this is the secretary at St. Vincent school who has battled cancer and survived. Mrs. Maza is truly the happiest person that I have ever met. She talks about her cancer as if it was easy to go through; however we all know better than to perceive it that way. However Mrs. Meza treats everyday like its Friday and that God has shed a special ray of sunshine just for her. She is always smiling and cheery. Once I was making copies, and she was literally so happy that she was dancing with joy to the radio. I had no choice but join her for that minute or two until the song was over. Honestly, I think the Almighty has, and does have a special ray of sun just for Mrs. Meza. I also think that many days Mrs. Meza is that special ray of sunshine that God has blessed me with.

Last but not least, my students at St. Vincent are very intelligent. They are catching on to the material so quickly that I have to increase the difficulty of my quizzes in order to keep them challenged. I am looking forward to this upcoming year with St. Vincent School.

All in all, Los Angeles is treating me well, however this doesn’t mean that I have a challenges, it just means that I am able to get through them all by the Grace of God. Your prayers mean the world.
-In Love, from Boyle Heights, LA