The hike to Laguna de Chicabal was refreshing. I had been itching for some fresh air the last couple days and was excited to be hiking again. Unfortunately for us the weather was not in our favor when we reached the top and we couldn’t see down into the lake. When we started the climb down to the lake, we passed by several out of breath children and every single one of them was smiling and waved or said hello.
Finally reaching the lake was truly an incredible sight as the clouds that shrouded the mountain began to fade and the lake waxed into existence. It was easy to understand why Laguna de Chicabal is a sacred place and we could several families praying on its shores.
The most moving part of the trip was when we found a young man who was preparing to leave for the United States tomorrow. His family was also there to pray for his safe travels and good fortune in the land of opportunity and it was humbling to see him interacting with his young children. It was impossible to tell if the children knew the gravity of the situation, but it also didn’t seem to matter as they enjoyed being with their father in this sacred place. He said he was headed for Los Angeles, which is about a three-week journey. We head home in three weeks. I hope he makes it.
Nick in Guatemala 