When the the diverse volunteer group arrived, inspired by Martyn and Justine Joseph of Let Yourself Trust, to assist in the construction of the Music and Culture Dome, I knew it would be an extraordinary constellation of people. However, I had no idea the level of synergy they would reach onsite and then maintain after their departure. Everyone who works with Project Somos is more than impressed, we are amazed.
For me, it was a pleasure to work with the group during their construction days in February, and they seemed to connect deeply with the vision and mission of the Project. They were exuberant in their workdays and joyful in their nightly musical endeavours and revelry. It was an unparalleled phenomenon we had not often witnessed but always hope for.
Here’s the clincher – even before the group’s departure (after completing 22 rows of earth bags of the Culture Dome), there was a talk of the next Somos build and their participation. One of their team stepped up and committed to find the funds to build Family House #3 and organize the group to return and participate in the construction. Both tasks happened in a very short time span.
This group’s unity of enthusiasm put into action is a dream come true for us. Once again it tangibly demonstrates the power of intention fuelled by Love that we have repeatedly witnessed over the past five years being on the ground in Guatemala. It is a testament to what is possible when a group of like-minded people dream BIG!
Fifteen of the SomosUS team made the return trip in August to get their hands dirty helping construct our third family home! This duplex means that we will have space to accept two more families! They completed an incredible 25 levels of earth bags and considering that the linear circumference of the walls was three times as long, the effort enters into the realm of superhuman.
During the team’s construction time here, we had a gathering to dedicate the Music, Art and Culture Dome. Antolin spoke about the importance of the structure and what it meant to him personally as a Mayan spiritual guide. After others in the group offered their thoughts and good wishes, Antje Duvekot offered a beautiful song to conclude the time. Everyone was very moved by the experience.
Our workers continue to work on the family home and they are making impressive progress – the roof is on, the electrical and plumbing is roughed in, the eco-brick interior walls are built and next they will be stuccoing the interior and exterior. Stay tuned! Or follow along in the House Build Album.
-Greg
Wow! I am so touched. I love seeing the faces of all the people transformed by these acts of love. I am thrilled to see how the village is growing and taking shape more and more as a place of respite and refuge for these families. Hugs and kisses to you all!