My Story

Pasojoc is an area located high on the side of a mountain in the state of Quiche, Guatemala. Life in this area is very difficult and very isolated from the outside world. It is more than a two hour walk to the nearest market town of Zacualpa. Pasojoc is a farming area where corn and black beans, the staple elements in their diet, are the major corps. The Quiche Mayans who inhabit this area trace their ancestral roots to the ancient Mayan civilization. They normally speak a Mayan dialect called Quiche - however, Spanish is becoming more common. Very little money ever changes hands in this area as they live on a barter system.

I fondly greet you, hoping this letter finds you doing well. My full name is Aleidy Sofia Chivalan Mucia and I want to share with you a little about my life. I was born on August 17, 2018. I am 7 years old and I enjoy playing with dolls. I like cats, and my favorite color is red. What I love eating the most is fried chicken. About my family, I tell you that I live with my parents, brother, and grandparents on my mother’s side. I am the youngest child in my family. We are members of Source Pentecostal Church. Luckily, everybody is doing well. My father’s name is Angel Chivalan Us. He makes a living as a mason’s helper to provide us with the essentials, such as food which is one of our greatest needs.

My mother’s name is Elsa Yolanda Mucia Portuguez. She is a housewife and does her best to contribute to the expenses. She embroiders typical clothes and raises domestic animals. We have a few chickens and a cow at home. We live in a house that belongs to my grandparents. It is made of concrete blocks and ceramic floor. My family and I only use one room at home and share the kitchen with my grandparents. Fortunately, we have electricity and running water at home. My parents contribute to cover the household expenses. To end this letter, I want you to know that I am so happy because I can enjoy my meals from the feeding program at school. To get there, my brother and I usually walk for fifteen minutes. See you later!

Kisses and hugs

Aleidy Sofia Chivalan Mucia

Translated by: Hillary Popol, A-A-C Secretary/Antigua