THE YOUTH MEETS THE UMBRELLA LADY

Marie and I and ten of her group left San Rafael at 8:30, for the trip to San Ignacio Loyola church. The place was already busy when we arrived; a singing group was practicing, another group was watching a film on some religious subject, and preparations were being made for baptism. Lots of activities. I presented myself to the receptionist and she went off to find one of the priests. Soon Fr. Jesse came out and welcomed the group. He took us over to the church and explained our work. Basically, a dusting and moping job of the area. Then another project upstairs and something outside. The way this group attacks work, it will not last very long. It was fun, with mops and brooms flying all over the place. The regular man and his young helper went ahead and looked for more tasks.

With things under control Marie and I walked over to Maria’s house. It was early yet and she was not expecting us. Nevertheless, she was not too upset with our arrival.”! am not going to the border today and will prepare for the group’s visit. My hair, my dress.” What time will be convenient for you? ‘’1:30, ok?” That is fine. Before we left, the two “Marys” talked about their boys. Each has two. Marie showed photos of hers and Maria had hers in the room. “How young Marie is; and her boys.” Actually, Marie is four years older than Maria. The hard life in Mexico ages people quickly. We invited Manuel back to meet the group. His first experience with American youth. Javi was off on some errand. The church was still in one piece upon our arrival. The gang was out in front talking with some Mexican boys. They’re the same age. This makes the whole trip worthwhile. Each group quizzed the other on the language. Kate had a headset on listening to music. It was Mexican 54

rock and roll. One of the boys let her borrow the set. “How old are you, where do you live, how do you say this word, how do say that word?’. It was great. Marie and I took pictures. Manuel was accepted immediately. “Manuel, ask Shelley how old she is. “No, he is too shy yet. The glass soda bottles appeared quickly. These are still used in Mexico. A deposit is needed unless you promise to return it. Five sodas were bought yet only four bottles went back. Who has the empty? No response. A couple went over and paid the grocer for the bottle. One trip down several of the group paid the extra charge for a large Coca-Cola glass bottle. Truly, the deposit is almost as much as the contents. Food and chips were shared all around. “Is there a good taco stand nearby? “Yes, one of the boys took three of us down the street to a nice, restaurant; inside or outside eating. I bought our guide and Manuel and myself tacos. They had a fountain drink; rice and milk and sugar. Not too bad.

While the bonding between the two countries was being carried out, I went off to see Fr. Bruno. He was just leaving to say Mass at another church. I asked him if he knew a builder in the area.” Yes, I have a parishioner who is an architect. In fact, his wife is here now watching a religious movie. I’ll get her. “What luck! She came out and I struggled with the language. She got the idea. “Wait, I will get you his phone number. “ Does he speak English? That’s ok, Maria will make the call when we need to see him. Where is his office? “Right in our home. We live close by. Good! Not long afterward Fr. Jesse came rushing by with another gentleman. They were going to the new offices’ area. I knew who he was. May we talk after your business? “Yes, of course. “ He returned shortly and we introduced ourselves. Jorge Malacon is a builder/engineer who also works for the state land office. What a break! And, he speaks English like I speak Spanish. We can communicate. I gave him a 15-minute version of Maria’s plight. After we know the cost of her lot, will get a price on a new house. Then we look for financing. “ 55

I can help.” Those words sounded wonderful. I have his card and when we receive the blueprints we will talk.

The gang was still chatting out front. “Where can we buy churros? “ Those delicious bread like sticks, deep-fried, arid rolled in cinnamon sugar. Over at that little store. Sorry, they were told, we only sell the little pieces in plastic bags. You have to buy the others at the border. Marie, see the watermelon vendor down the street? Maybe some of the group can go down and see how much they are. “ I’ll go with Manuel,” Shelley said. “They cost between $10 and $20 pesos. “ Less than $3. Mike and a few others decided that one water melon woul d be perfect for Maria. Leaving the cars behind and loaded with clothes for Maria, Manuel lead the way with watermelon in hand. Four blocks to #35 Prieto.

Hola, Sombrilla! here we are. She was waiting; she looked like an actress readying for her entrance. All fixed, hair, dress. We the audience, she the star. After introductions,” please, come into my house.” All except Mike, who is large, and myself, squeezed into her little room. Claire, bless her, was our translator. A blond, born in South America, she surprised Maria with her Spanish. Don’t be shy, Maria, we are all friends. Tell us about your life. She lit up that stage for an hour. They were captivated by this poor, crippled, semi literate lady. Outwardly, Maria can be described thus. No one in that little room saw anything but a person of great faith and love. She stood, and they sat. Neither nervous nor hesitant, she was the Story Lady. She was the teacher! I heard a few comments, “she is fantastic, unbelievable.” Most were silent, reflecting on what they had heard. They came out and we took pictures of Maria and her new friends from Rancho Ber nardo. She loves RB. Here are more clothes to sell. Lots of clothes. “Would you give this to Maria?” It was a $20 bill from Claire. I cannot give her money anymore, now that we are friends. Please, Claire, you give it to her. Later, “David,

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look what Claire gave me. For my lot. I now have $280. “God bless her.

Before we left Maria gave me 4 thank you notes for recent gifts. I gave the boys crayons and coloring books for passing in school. No money for them either. I suspect Claire and the youth group will be receiving notes in the near future.

“Are you in a hurry to leave?” No, not just yet. I checked with Marie. A few minutes more. Ok, my friend, we have 10 minutes more. She enjoys that game. Several hugged and kissed her before we departed. She was theirs forever. We love you, Maria. Magie and I will be down with Felix this week. With her braces, I hope.

The only thing left to end a perfect day was,” I found the churros, five for $1; they are so good!”

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