BACK AT THE BORDER

Today was an early start for us because our Mass service at San Judas Tadeo Iglesia began at 8. After an early breakfast and us dressing in our nicest clothes, we headed down to take part in prayer with the local community. It was a special and unique experience because although the Mass was entirely in Spanish, the traditions and practices were the same, which was cool to see.

Afterwards, we returned to our floor where we did various tasks for our prayer service later today, as well as projects that are in progress at the casa. A third of us focused on preparing ingredients for our promotoras to prepare a delicious meal for those who attended the binational prayer service later in the day, while another third made cookies for the event as well. A third group of students graciously volunteered to work in a garden outside the casa, which helps provide the community with a healthy and sustainable food source. After, we all piled into two buses and drove to friendship park, which happened to be the first destination we explored when we first arrived in Tijuanna.

Upon arriving at the friendship park on border, we were given the opportunity to interact and interview with locals and other visitors of the area. We were able to listen to stories and hear experiences from a diverse cast of people, and it was eye-opening to learn about the different perspectives of people who come from all over, but all share similar opinions and experiences regarding the border, immigration, and the beauty of the culture here in Tijuanna. After listening to so many beautiful stories and sharing moments with so many unique and courageous individuals, we were given the opportunity to attend a binational prayer service adjacent to the border wall. A pastor provided his own insight about how although the border separates us, we are still able to feel connected through relationships and faith. Afterwards, we shared a meal with others who attended the prayer service and were able to learn about their own personal stories and perspectives on the youth, the border, and how we are still able to form authentic and genuine connections despite language barriers and cultural differences.

Afterwards, Ricarbol graciously gave us the opportunity to come into his home. Upon arrival, he invited us to explore and share our experiences and stories regarding our families’ heritage and origins. Hearing each others history of immigration within our families allowed us to understand that all of us were migrants at some point and opened us up to look at individuals who are going through that process today with more compassion and empathy. He then gave us a tour of his home and showed us everything that made it special and personal to him.

After cooling off at Ricarbol’s house, we walked to a local restaurant by the name of El Cascaron. The owners allowed us to have a private dinner in their establishment and served us one of the best meals that we were able to eat while we were here. After sharing a delicious variety of pasta, fish, chicken rice, pork, meatballs, and vegetables, while sharing laughs and memories that will last us a lifetime, Leo, the owner, shared his beautiful and inspiring story about immigration, learning to cook, and eventually starting his own restaurant that he could feel proud of.

We packed the buses again and returned to Hodeni. We went to the roof for the final time, and shared an extended reflection on our time here, and talked about the memories we made, the encounters we had, and the things that we were grateful for. The fact that this experience is coming to a close is bittersweet. We are sad that this journey where we have made so many friendships, memories, and shared so much laughter is ending so soon. However, we couldn’t be more excited to share what we learned with others, and especially to transform our footage and interviews into passionate and cohesive documentaries for you guys to see. We will see you guys tomorrow! Thank you for this opportunity.