My Story

This is Juan Jose Cruz Riz, and I am writing this to update my 2023 information. First, I will tell you about my family. We attend church once a week, and we are assured of our Salvation. We grow corn and black beans, and they are for our consumption. We are a humble family, and our greatest needs are groceries. My father’s name was Pedro, and sadly, he passed away last year. My mother’s name is Sandra. She is 35 years old, and she is in good health. She is working as a maid in Guatemala City to support us. I am under the care of my maternal grandmother, Tomasa Garcia, who is 60 years old. She is a housewife and dedicates all her time to me.

Now let me tell you a little about myself. I am 14 years old, and I am healthy. I was in 8^th grade this year, and I learned more since classes were face-to-face. It was difficult for my mother to buy my school supplies, but she did her best. I do not know yet which profession I would like to have in the future. My favorite celebration is Christmas because we eat the traditional “tamales”. We do not have the custom to celebrate my birthday, but it would be nice to have a party someday. I prefer football as a sport, and I love drinking lemonade. I want to learn English language in the future. Living Water is very important in my life, and I am grateful for the delicious food received. May God bless you!

Kisses and hugs

Juan Jose Cruz Riz

Translated by: Loyda de Osorio/A-A-C Secretary, Antigua Guatemala