Chixocol
Guatemala
Child
My name is Mario Alexander, and I am excited to share a little bit about my life with you through this letter. I hope you are keeping well. My family and I attend Assembly God Church on Tuesdays and Fridays. Thankfully, we are healthy. My father, Mario Hernandez, is 50 years old. He works hard daily as a farmer and day laborer. My mother, Tomasa Xorxe, is 48 years old. She is a very busy housewife who raises hens, cows, and pigs to sell. She helps to cover the expenses with her income. Unfortunately, everything is expensive nowadays. We need groceries at home, especially corn. Fortunately, we count on the feeding program’s help. Many children like me can receive delicious lunches for free. We try to harvest beans for our consumption, although it is not enough to feed ourselves.
I am fifteen years old and attend school as a fourth grader. I prefer the face-to-face classes because I learn the lessons so much better. Even though my parents do their best for me, their low income does not allow them to pay for all school supplies. I would love to become a teacher when I am older. I also would like to speak a new language like English. My native language is the K’iche dialect. Therefore, I would like to count on your prayers for me. My favorite holiday is Christmas because I love burning firecrackers. My birthday was in August. I do not celebrate my birthday as many people usually do. However, it makes me happy to know that I am having a new year of life to enjoy with my family. There are many sports, but my favorite is soccer. This is all for now about my life. Before ending this letter, I want you to know that a member of the LW staff spoke with my mother to collect all this information for you. I send you many kisses and hugs, hoping to hear from you soon.
Sincerely yours,
Mario Alexander Hernandez Xorxe
Translated by: Hillary Popol / AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala