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.

My full name is Roger Isaac Ajqui Calel and I am so happy to greet you. I was born on February 5, 2021. I am 4 years old and because of my age, I still do not attend school. So, I stay home and play with my toy cars or a ball. One of my favorite games is freeze tag. My favorite food is fried chicken, I love horses, and my favorite color is blue. Thankfully, my whole family and I are in good health. I am the youngest child at home. I only have one brother. My mother’s name is Maria Del Carmen Calel Garcia. She is a kindergarten teacher. My father’s name is Isaias Ajqui De La Cruz. He works six days a week as a farmer and day laborer. My parents strive to provide our family with all we need at home. Our priorities are groceries. While they work, my aunt Cecilia Ruiz, takes care of my oldest brother and me.

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. We have a rooster, a dog, and some doves at home. The feeding program is 30 minutes from where I live. To get there, my mom takes my brother and me on foot. I send you many kisses and hugs, hoping to hear from you soon.

Affectionately,

Roger Isaac Ajqui Calel

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala