I helped dig trenches for Olga and Maria Angelica’s house. I laughed harder than I have in a long time. I carried long, heavy pieces of wood until my shoulders were bruised. I was a sheep in our Bible school lesson, and apparently I “baah” incorrectly. I danced with some awesome hippie ladies at the Posada de Santiago across the lake. I made new connections and rekindled old ones. I cried as God revealed Himself to all of us in new and exciting ways.

I worked hard. I played hard. And I left another piece of my heart in Panajachel as I repeatedly fall in love with the town each time I’m there.

Lindsey Newberry, Team Element 3