My Story

Tunajá is a very primitive area of the state of Quiché, Guatemala.  The inhabitants are Quiché Indians who trace their ancestral roots to the ancient Mayan civilization.  The prevalent language is the Indian dialect - Quiché.  The people are either farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors.  Very little money ever changes hands as they use a barter system.  Public education is available - however, most families cannot afford it.  Electricity and running water are not available in most of the area.  Life in Tunajá is extremely difficult.

Hello! This is Gladis Eliza Rodriguez Chingo, and I pray that you are keeping well. I feel so happy for this opportunity to introduce myself for the first time with you. I am 11 years old. I was born on February 20, 2013. I am in 4^th grade at school. My favorite color is pink, and my favorite animal is the cat. I enjoy eating almost everything. I like playing with dolls. My health is good. I have two brothers and two sisters. I live happily with my parents and my siblings.

My father is Rogelio Rodriguez Coj, and he works as farmer and day laborer. My mother is Marcela Chingo Chingo, and she takes care of us and the house. She also raises chickens and pigs. We are members of the Catholic Church. Our greatest necessities as a family are corn and groceries. Fortunately, they are all healthy. We do not have a house of our own. We live in our maternal grandparents´ house. It is a two-room house with a separate kitchen, made of adobe walls, tile roof and cement floor. There is running water and electricity that my parents pay annually. Our domestic animals are chickens and pigs.  My siblings and I walk for 40 minutes to arrive at the feeding program. Before saying goodbye, I want you to know that my mother provided the information for you. Thank you for your attention. I know you do not know me, but I really appreciate that you love me. May God bless you wherever you are! I look forward to writing you soon.

Kisses and hugs,

Gladis Eliza Rodriguez Chingo

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua