Bishop Raul Vera Lopez OP of Chiapas introduced me to the wonderful spirit found in Mexico. I am so thankful that I learned about the wonderful Mexican people who have so much to offer. There are terrible abuses by people in power and others in Mexico… but the family life is strong giving them strength to stand up to what ever comes their way. The faith of the poor and their family unity helped me to realize that the family life here in the United States is falling down. It is being replaced by things or being pulled away by outside activities. Expensive cars, computers, boats, big houses, gambling, going to parties and all sorts of things and activities lead people away from being together.

During my many visits to Mexico I lived among the poor. Had to shake out my shoe for scorpions when I got up in the morning, was bitten by a million mosquitoes, as well as bathed outside and use an outhouse, even washing my clothes on a stone. Many women wash their clothes in the rivers, carrying their dirty laundry for miles just to get them clean. How much we have here in the US and how little we stop to give thanks to God of what we have.

It is a hard life in Mexico but if you become one with the people, you will find that there is a great spirit… a driving force that keeps them going through it all. Faith in God is what binds them together.

1. Outdoor living is normal for many people in Mexico
2. The living room is outdoors
3. This kitchen stove is made of stone. There is a dirt floor
4. The only place to wash in many places is in dirty water

The Life of Mexico

Click to view photos that shows the people of Mexico