My Story

Zacualpa is a small but busy village in a mountain valley. The village is inhabited by both Quiche Mayans and Ladinos (those with mixed European ancestry). The prevalent language is Spanish. Families in this village live in one or two room homes generally constructed of either wood or adobe. Although many of the people are farmers, the village contains several small specialized stores, a body repair shop for buses, mechanics, plumbers and many other small town tradesmen. It also has a large open air market which serves much of the area. Even with all of this, the poverty level is very high and the children are very needy.

Hello! I am Josthyn Caleb Ajqui Calel and it is a pleasure to share my information with you. I was born on November 12, 2013. Today, I am a healthy 11-year-old boy. My favorite color is red. I am in fifth grade and I love playing soccer. My favorite animals are dogs and my favorite food is beef stew. Fortunately, I have a lovely and healthy family. Isaias Ajqui De La Cruz is my father’s name. He is a farmer and day laborer. He usually works six days a week to support our family. One of our priorities is food. On the other hand, my mother works as a kindergarten teacher for the government to help with the expenses at home. Her name is Maria Del Carmen Calel Garcia. While my parents work, my aunt Cecilia Ruiz, takes care of my youngest brother and me. I only have one brother. I am the oldest child at home.

We are Christians and attend church frequently. By the grace of the Lord, we live in our own house. My grandmother also lives with us. The house is made of concrete block with a concrete roof and a ceramic floor. It has three rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. My parents pay the electricity monthly while the running water is paid annually. I am happy because I have a dog at home. We also have a rooster and some doves. The feeding program is 30 minutes from where I live. To get there, my mom takes my brother and me on foot. I say goodbye to you for now, but I appreciate that you could read my letter. Until next time!

Sincerely yours,

Josthyn Caleb Ajqui Calel

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala