Dear Mrs. Ferraro and Sacred Heart Faculty,

As you probably know by now, I have recently returned from my service trip to Cholula, Mexico. My schoolmates and I had a wonderful experience participating in the work that we did and the various activities that were held. I am fortunate to attend a school (Fordham Prep) that helps their students put into practice the values of social justice. I am also fortunate to have so many family and friends who supported this project!

The majority of the work that needed to be done was agricultural. My group and I pulled a lot of weeds, making room for the bean, corn, and squash plants to grow. The field was in terrible shape. Some of the weeds were taller than the corn plants (some over six feet tall!) As some of us were pulling the weeds, others would dig irrigation trenches along the plants so that they can obtain water. We all took turns shifting positions with the jobs.

After working in the fields or tending to farm animals, we would all eat lunch at a community house. Lunch varied from day to day, but it always involved hot spices and tortillas. At almost every meal there were tortillas either on the side, or as part of the main course. It was quite delicious, but by the end of the week I longed for some of my family’s home cooking. The accommodations were comfortable but tight and modest.

The building was run by a family that works with Community Links – the organization that works with the underprivileged of that area. The host family was very welcoming, friendly and open to sharing their hardships. Hearing their stories made me feel blessed and thankful for all that I have. At the end of each day the group took time to reflect on the joyful and difficult times of our day. We kept a journal, prayed together and even made time for recreational activities like playing cards, soccer and hand games with the local children.

I was greatly moved during my immersion experience of the culture of Mexico’s inhabitants. I learned a great deal about how different cultures can interact with each other, thus understanding how we should all relate to each other as well. It involves respect, cooperation, and effort. Personally, the greatest impact the experience had on me was the sense of compassion we all felt for the underprivileged. I was also reminded not to take all that I have for granted. There are so many people who suffer and sacrifice so much just to survive each day, and sustain their families throughout their lives. Despite all the hardships I saw during that week, I was able to see the splendor and beauty that God created in humans.

Thank you again for of your generous support!

Sincerely,

Andrew Fontoura
Fordham Prep ‘09