Apr 30, 2019 My eyes have been opened. Now I can see!

When people visit different countries around the world, they always have their eyes opened. I was no exception on my first visit to Cuba. I was amazed by the most appreciative, lovely and caring people I got to know. In fact, I’d never experienced that much love, or gotten so many hugs as I did during those two weeks! It is so difficult to leave so many warm and loving people behind when their needs are still so great!

The needs in Cuba are profound. Things we take for granted and are easy to getÑlike reading glassesÑare in short supply and very expensive. So the mission team offers eye clinics in four locations. These communities are notified that reading glasses would be provided free of charge, so really long lines form at the clinics. Naturally, people are thrilled to finally be able to see clearly again. At least 1,000 glasses were given away, and we really needed more!

After the evangelistic series, there were 75 who were baptized. During baptisms, we Americans tend to remain in our seats rather stoically. We might clap or sing along with the songs in-between, but generally, we stay put. But during the baptisms in Cuba, each person is surrounded by friends, family, and loved ones! They cluster around the baptistery, sometimes reaching in to touch their loved one! What care and love is exhibited, what joy and excitement is displayed for such a marvelous time as this!

Everyone in Cuba, the cooks, translators, chauffeurs, pastors and the people were wonderful. The food was marvelous and the cooks were so accommodating. For example, I needed more protein and asked about nuts. I discovered the only nuts they have in Cuba are peanuts.Â I offered to pay for them if the cooks could purchase them. The cooks bought the peanuts, and they dry roasted them and added sea salt, then they made fresh peanut butter.Â They wouldn’t even accept the money I offered. They always checked with us to make sure every thing was fine.

I really enjoyed the time we spent in Cuba and completely fell in love with the people. A mission experience is greater than we can even imagine. We experience Jesus working in ways big and small. We see how God uses our small efforts to create big impact. We build connections and love as Jesus taught us it could be. God’s love and blessings to you all!