Today we started out not really sure what the day would hold. We are usually informed of the options available the night before but did not get that information. We got ready thinking we were going to the hospital today but were told going down to breakfast that the options were to help at the dental clinic, build, or to make sandwiches and deliver them to people at the dump. We chose the dump. The house we helped to build yesterday was beside the dump but not “in” the dump. Two entirely different areas people. I came believing we would not be going to the dump at all and now we had a chance to actually experience what we have heard from previous groups or viewed in pictures/videos. If you have no idea what I’m talking about search the dump in Tegucigalpa on you tube but rest assured it is NOTHING like being there. I can not tell you in words how it feels to drive up. The stench hits you first as you see hundreds of vultures soaring above. Once you arrive it is a sight I can not explain. I just can’t. 
It was expressed to us that no one lives at the dump they just work there to gather enough materials to resell at the recycle center in order to make money. The fact that people “have” to go there to make a living is just unimaginable. 300 sandwiches were prepared ahead of time that would be given out added to that a banana, cookies and water. These people are accustomed to the process and there is no chaos. 3 lines are formed each for women, men and children. Food was handed to each person through the back of the bus while others of us got off and handed out the waters. The waters were in pouches that you tear off the corner and squeeze it out to drink.
After I handed out my first batch, a man gestured that he wanted the plastic wrap in which the waters were packaged. He would be adding this to his collection no doubt. One girl I met, Stephanie, was 16 years old! There were plenty more way younger than her. Imagine taking your child with you “to work” and their playground is a garbage mound. Something that was spoken to me that really hit me hard is how it is a community there. They don’t fight over what they are collecting. If someone finds a material someone else is collecting they give it to them. They look out for each other amongst the unwanted and disposed refuse from the city. They help each other. It was amazing to hear that and witness that. I never saw anyone arguing, pushing, or grabbing. It was calm. Some played with a soccer ball with some of the kids and even some adults joined in. One lady from Tupelo painted nails. I did a lot of reflecting and soaking it all in while talking to God. I never want to forget this feeling and this experience but I have been before and I know how it all just kinda fades and you just go back to living the daily routine. I will have to be purposeful in remembering. After we left the dump with many eyes tear brimmed and much silence we headed over to another area to do a VBS. There must have been at the least 50 children and they were so very patient and well mannered.
It was very encouraging to see them read scripture and excited to do what the ladies had planned for them. They were given from scripture 8 attributes of God and made a craft of a flower with petals that listed those characteristics of God. Some were so proud and hung them around their neck showing them off to me. Muy bien! Snacks were handed out and one girl motioned to me she didn’t get one. Never did she complain or pout as I tried to find where the extras were located. She simply sat there smiling. We loaded up and waved our goodbyes and headed back to shower and get ready for supper followed by worship at the Jesus Statue to which we have been very much looking forward!!
Prayers are felt and know that great work in being accomplished here thanks to your prayers and donations. Love you all! ~ 8 ladies serving in Honduras
