On Friday, we had another celebration for FAPE’s 25th anniversary. This time, it was only the people who worked in the office. Needless to say, I was much more comfortable and happy with this crowd. We went to a park of Mayan ruins called Tecpan, which isn’t as spectacular as Tikal, but we had the park to ourselves.
First up, the religious devotion that takes place every Friday. Next up, sharing stories about different entrepreneur’s successes. About how they have to run three businesses to make ends meet. About how they can send their kids to school. About how happy they are to receive their loans. And what anniversary would be complete without the opportunity for me to stand up and be awkward? This time, the award was for me personally. In the video below (the audio is not very good), I am in front of all of FAPE thanking them for the time that I’ve been able to spend with them.
Then the festivities really began. This group of 40 Guatemalan financial workers and one american volunteer, played team building games. It reminded me of being at camp. We passed a lemon down a line using only our necks. We built 3-person skis out of planks of wood and string. We played pin the tail on the donkey. After all those organized activities, I taught them how to play frisbee. After the rompus, we ate what I would describe as a Guatemalan barbecue.
And finally, we went to visit the ruins where a, Mayan ceremony had just taken place.
Now that’s my type of anniversary celebration.
