My Story

Hello! I greet you hoping you are doing fine alongside your loved ones. This is Gloria Hermelinda Toj Chingo and my age is 11 years old. This year, I am repeating 2^nd grade at school and receiving classes face-to-face every day. I like this study method because I am learning easier. Nowadays, my mother is making an effort to support me and my siblings at school in spite of the lack of work in the village. She does not have a stable job, so it is very hard for her to support me at school. My native language is Maya Quiche, but I would like to learn Spanish and have good communication with other people. My favorite season of the year is summer because the weather is perfect to play and walk outside. In the future, I would like to be a merchandiser. I like to drink strawberry juice. Among sports, I prefer to play football. What I love to do for my birthday is for my family to sing a song called: “Happy Birthday to You” and we spend time celebrating.

My stepfather is Baldomero Ruiz Chingo and he is 49 years old. He earns a living by working as a farmer and day laborer in his own crops, and he contributes with expenses. As you know my father abandoned us many years ago. My mother is Micaela Toj Chingo, and she is 36 years old. She continues doing chores at home and, she raises hens to sell and get some income. We grow black beans, peas, pumpkins to sell, and corn for our consumption.  Nowadays, we are not attending church. We thank the Living Water evangelism team who shared the Gospel and encouraged us to seek God. My mother told them that we are not attending church because my stepfather does not let us.  I ask for your prayers for him. Let me tell you that thanks to God, my family is in good health. I have some health problems because I suffer from headaches as you know, so please pray for me. Fortunately, I visited LW/AAC doctor and he gave me medical treatment. My family is very grateful to you for your help through Living Water because we have been blessed with meals, dental and medical clinics, and spiritual support. As a big family, our priority needs are corn and groceries. I hope you enjoy reading my letter. May God bless you!

Warm greetings!

Gloria Hermelinda Toj Chingo

Translated by:  Gladys Chavez/ A-A-C Secretary-Antigua.