We arrived at the Lake Atitlan about 10 only an hour late and immediately headed to the water where the boats were waiting to go to Satiago, one group went sightseeing while the other went kyaking. I was admist the kyakers who headed out onto the peaceful water surrounded by mountains and three astonishing volcanos , Toliman, Atitlan n San Pedro. It was a great way to renew the spirit after the busy week in Champerico.
Once we docked we headed out on a hike through town n a coffee plantation. We met many students returning home from school dressed in their traditional clothes. We continued on and entered a coffee grove where our guide explained how the coffee was grown and harvested. Guatemala is know for its exceptional quality of coffee. Many workers were walking along the road some with hoes, machetes, wheelbarrow or a bundle of firewood on their back. Then along came our ride an old truck with a bar in the back to hang on, we al climbed in and the skies opened up; we were soaked to the skin n cold by the time we got back to town. Continuing on we toured the Cathedral de Santiago which was was began in the mid 1500's. Many saints n depictions of Christ in statue form lined the walls. Many of the Statues had ties around their necks depicting someone had prayed to that Saint and their prayer was answered. On we went through the streets of Santiago coming to a narrow passageway which our guide lead us down. At the end we came to a humble abode where San Simon a Mayan Saint otherwise know as Maximon resided. The room was dimly lit and a strong smell of incense filled my nostrils. It cost 2Q to enter and there sat 3 men around a table with the Statue front and center. He was a short wooden man dressed like a local and adorned with colorful scarves around his neck, wirh a wide brim hat and a cigar in his mouth. I looked about the room which was heavily decorated; colored papers, ribbons, beads , stuffed critters were hanging from the ceiling , to the left a laying down Christ statue and to the right statues of 3 women Saints. Sitting at a large wooden table 3 men; part of the brotherhood, many liquor bottles n cigarette stubs littering the floor n table. 1 man is elected each year and Maximon takes up residence in his home. The family does not work for a year their only job to take care of Maximon n his worshipers. Maximon can answer your prayers in exchange for his fav things money, candles, alcohol n tobacco. A representation of the nowadays Guatemalan Maya religion: Cathollicism introduced by the Conquistadores with native elements that have nothing to do with Christianity.
It cost 10Q to take a picture which we regreted not doing afterwards as we thought; no one is going to believe this.
After this we headed back to the boat and the hotel. There I had my 1st hot shower since leaving home, ahh what can I say, it was heaven. A light lunch, nap, and sharing time for the group. Douglas, Dave, Cathy n I then headed out on the town for some vino and a late dinner. The town was alive with people, motorbikes n tricycle taxis. We finished up about 11 and the streets were empty, I was glad to have Dave n Douglas there as we made our way back.
On the bus by 8 and on our way to Antigua where we stayed in a lovely old colonial hotel. Cathy n I hopped in a taxi and headed off to the square to check out the sights. 1st stop a quaint coffee shop where we enjoyed a cup of tea and cake. Visited the Saint Joseph Cathedral and then off to the market to barter. What a difference from a few days ago. We all gathered for dinner where we said our farewells to our newfound friends.
Up at 1am to board the bus to the airport. I write this now as we are flying high above the clouds and contemplate the last 12 days. Words cannot describe this journey and it will take time to process all that took place in my body mind n spirit. I am so glad I was able to go on this Mission of Solidarity and give thanks for this experience. Blessings from Above +
1. Lake Atitlan
2. On the road again
3. St Josephs Cathedral, Antigua
4. The view as I write
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