La Makina

From the moment we stepped out of the airport into the warmth of Nicaragua, I knew I was in love with this Country. Throughout the entire trip, our group has bonded closer, and our team has gotten so close with the students at Centro De Fe. Every day goes by too fast, and every moment is cherished so much. The culture in Nicaragua is so different, but so exciting and fun. The way they express their love towards each other is different and much more emotional than relationships you usually see. The moment we all met was somewhat scary, but in just a few minutes we were already warmed up to each other.  Every time we are together is more exciting and you learn so much about different people every day.

Today we had the chance to go to La Makina, which is a beautiful waterfall in the mountains of Managua. The bus ride up was a little over an hour and filled with interactive times with the students of Centro de Fe.  When we arrived it was such a cool and different site than anywhere in Canada. The way the waterfall tumbled down the rocks, and flowed into a small river at the bottom, and at the top a little pool of water formed which made for great times. The moment we got out of the bus, a group of us started climbing the waterfall right away. The sound of the water crashing down, and the feeling of it on your feet was so relaxing and nice. At one moment, another little group of us were sitting on one big rock overlooking the biggest part of the waterfall. We sat in silence just observing how gorgeous and unbelievable the site was. God’s creation and glory was so visible in that moment and it put a permanent smile on my face. I’m usually one to worry about the next day and not take in the moment. I have never felt so relaxed and calm then I have in the moment of observing Gods creation in that moment.

Everyone has bonded with the students from Centro de Fe so well, and some people were much freer and open than usual. At one point, we were all in the pool area at the top playing volleyball and football. Everyone was so happy and excited to be in such a lovely place having such a great time. Seeing every one bond with one another and get to know each other so well was such a blessing.  The relationships that have been formed over the trip have been unbelievably eye opening and life changing. The way you can come to a school in a different country and get to know a group of people is so amazing. I am so thankful for this trip, and this opportunity I have been given to be a part of this unbelievable experience.

Danica Stark