I first saw Uriel in 2003 when Hermano Nestor began his school children noon time lunch program. All the children were laughing and having a good time with their friends, all besides one little muchacho. This little guy looked so sad and alone. I inquired who he was and what his name was. I learned his name was Uriel and at that time was staying with his aunt, one of eight children in the small shanty of a house. My heart just cried out to him. I asked to be introduced to him. As the lunch program only served the kids 3 days per week I asked him if he would like to come to my house to eat lunch the other 2 school days.
When he showed up at our gate he was very unkept looking and shy, however he never missed a lunch and ate everything that was placed before him. He especially liked any kind of vegetable including beans and tortillas, the staple diet of all Mexican families. I then told him that anytime he was hungry he was to come by our casa for food. After that he appeared most Saturdays to eat.
This routine went on for about three years. When he showed up, he was fed regardless of the time of day. As we occasionally made trips to the states I arranged with my precious Mexican friend, Cuquita to feed him at her house when we were not there. With that arrangement he always could count on a warm meal at one casa or the other.
We bought him clothes, backpacks and other things for his school year. I encouraged him to stay in school. It didn't seem he was an outstanding student however because of his reserve, home life and etc. I never delved into that issue too far other than to encourage him to stay in school.
By the time he finished the mid school years he had dropped out of school to work and help support his mother & baby sister. Yes, she had shown up at sometime during the years he came to us. I understand she had a succession of different men who came and went in their lives. They lived in a small one room casa behind Hermano Nestor's church. I visited with her several times over the years. She was always well kept and seemed to love Uriel.
Life went on and we no longer saw Uriel, however when the flood came and we were staying with Cuquita and her family I ran into Uriel on the street and learned he was working with a construction crew who did work for the city of Alamos. We hugged and talked. I again asked him about school, telling him if he ever wanted to return to school we would help him.
In February 2010 when John and I visited Alamos we were at Hermano Nestor's church for a birthday party and Uriel came in with a big grin (still a young man of few words) to give me a big hug. He is now a tall guy, around 16 years old.
We learned he was helping teach a kindergarten class in the nearby countryside at a village called Uvalama. I told him we would love to come and visit his class, which we did. I again talked education and learned he would love to become a teacher. We reinforced the commitment to help him go to school when he decided to go.
In August, 2010 Hermano Nestor called to report on Alamos happenings and told John that Uriel came to him and asked if we would help him go to school. Of course our answer was YES. This kid has a special spot in my heart. To think from his background he chose the right path and not bad issues, drugs and etc. we are so proud of him. He is now in his first year of COBACH (high school). Mexcio has a program whereby if one finishes high school they can apply to become an apprentice teacher in one of the country schools. There are many rural schools and not the most desirable position to began in. If they choose this route they also will attend college classes much like our folks who work and go to school. Only time will tell but we must give him a chance and pray for him to succeed.
The photo below is Uriel and his kindergarten class at Uvalama. Note John in the background talking to the teacher.
Postscript - Earlier this year I began this posting as a letter to someone in our church who desired to help sponsor Uriel in his educational pursuit. In the last days of October this year John and I spent two weeks in Alamos. During that time Uriel came to our casa to visit, displaying that big ole wonderful smile. He is enjoying school and making good grades. He also has a job and works in the afternoons. He is attending the Calvary Chapel there in Alamos as they have a vibrant youth program. He is learning to play the guitar. Praise the Lord!! Remember him in your daily prayers.
