More business ventures in Ek Balam

During this same visit, Holly’s assignment was with “Estetica Gabi” (hairstylist). This was the second trip that Holly & I took to the village to train Gabi. This time, they met several times over the 4 days that we were there and Gabi got to experience 3 more haircuts. Holly suggested to Gabi to look into the cost of the hair styling school in Valladolid. She continued to train her on how to run a hair salon, along with several techniques including combing, parting, trimming with tension, and angling the comb. I was the fortunate one that Gabi got to practice on!! Three hours of having my hair combed, was like heaven on earth! She needed to get comfortable with holding scissors and a comb at the same time, along with using the right pressure. Then, she even cut my hair! (She can practice on me anytime!)

It was a double blessing for me because I got to see another young woman learn how to “fish”, while being able to be the connecter of a foreign woman sharing her passion in Ek Balam! I love to see the interactions and lessons that both woman are teaching each other. While Gabi was learning about her new business, she was seeing how God is in the center of all things! At the same time, Holly was learning how to be resourceful in a simple lifestyle, along with a new level of patience. That’s the first sign of a good teacher, of which she truly is! I’m fortunate to be a part of many first experiences and to observe growth amongst foreigners and villagers. Thanks Holly, for offering your time, resources, and talents; for showing God’s love; and for giving Gabi an opportunity that will make a difference in who she becomes!

Actually, now there is a difference in her eternal life too.. Yes, she and her mom both now have Jesus in their hearts and lives! On my following trip out to the village, I was drawn to her casa by the Holy Spirit; or talvez (maybe) it was my own desire to give Gabi some practice with combing hair (Or talvez a little of both. Ha-ha!)!! I was too late! She was “practiced out” because she had just finished with her third brothers’ haircut when I arrived. She, her mom and I began talking about the young man who is visiting her from another small town, once a week. He is courting her in the proper way. Her mom informed me that either she, or one of Gabi’s siblings is always around when he is there. They would not be allowed to go out for a walk after dusk, just the two of them, for example. There are very specific regulations for courting and dating within the Mayan culture (including marriage proposals). Gabi did say that they would be allowed to be at the same function at night, however. I find their traditions to be very respectful and interesting! This led right into my personal advise for finding out if he is the ultimo costilla (“last rib“.. A common saying that they use, which goes back to the beginning when Adam’s rib went to Eve)! Prayer, seeking wisdom and confirmations from God are first and foremost, being that He is the One who creates & molds every match made in heaven (like: Holly & Steve)! We talked about many other things like a person’s character & interests; but most important is his relationship with the Lord. I reminded her of the Pastor’s message at Leity’s wedding (you know.. The 3 strand rope story). When I glanced over at Paulina, Gabi’s mom, I asked her what she thought. She said, that I would know more about these things because I read the bible & understand more than she does. That’s what opened the door to them receiving the free gift of salvation. They were interested in having the Holy Spirit enter their bodies so that they could have that Spirit to spirit communication, which will help them to understand more of the bible too. God’s timing is perfect!