Before I tell you about our amazing fourth day spent in Antigua I would like to express my feeling of the overall experience. This is my first time with Healing Nations and my first medical mission. I am so grateful for this opportunity, that for me, seems to have fallen out of the sky (thank you Reba).
God has very recently re-entered my life, or rather he has always been there waiting but I have very recently turned towards him. I have felt his presence so strongly in this work. From the first planning meetings several months ago, to the most recent breakdown of our last day I have felt his hand guiding us.
I had the opportunity to work as a Physical Therapist with some amazing individuals. They have been so grateful and kind. I hope I have been able to provide some value to them as the lessons they have taught me through their resilience, humility, and gratitude will be invaluable to me.
On to Antigua, what a fun city. We started our day with a hike to a hill outside of Antigua that overlooked the city. A cross set on the hill draws attention to our Savior’s sacrifice and begins our day with thoughtfulness. We did all the fun things- bargaining at the market for beautiful goods, enjoying local foods and treats…chocolate (My favorite) and spending a wonderful time bonding as a group.
Appropriately, the day ended with attention to the savior as we were able to witness a cultural event where hundreds of individuals in processions carry images of the Savior on their backs of immense load. It was truly a sight to see and made me thoughtful of the weight our savior carried for us, something that we simply cannot do on our own. I am exhausted, humbled, and grateful.
Tyler
What a wonderful day! I am grateful for all of you and the work you have done. Thank you for doing what we at home could not do.