My experience in Guatemala was highly anticipated and nerve racking at the same time. This was my first service mission ever and to leave the states was not only exciting, but a little scary, too. The process and support provided to make this mission happen for me was pretty flawless and very organized. The people we worked with were absolutely wonderful and in great spirits to help others. Arriving in Guatemala and becoming accustomed to their culture and way of life was overwhelming, but throughout the week you tend to create a habit of the new routines and it gets a little easier each day. The people we helped were by far the best part of this mission experience. They are the most welcoming, loving and gracious people I have ever met. To serve those families was more of a blessing to me than it was to them, though they may not realize that. The living conditions and daily struggles they encounter just to survive are beyond eye opening and it doesn’t take much to compare everything we have to what they have, and know how much help is needed out there beyond what we see. All it takes is loving disciples who are willing and able to take the journey and make a difference. Installing stoves and providing other services to improve these families’ homes and health overall is an incredible mission project that I know will serve its purpose and I am so glad I was able to be a part of it. I would recommend anyone who has an opportunity and an open heart to do this in the future, please do! It would be well worth it and make such a positive impact on you, those you are helping, and your faith. The relationships you build and memories you make with everyone involved remain with you forever. God Bless this service mission and may it continue to grow in numbers and financial strength to keep going!