The trip to San Cristóbal de Las Casas is an all day
journey. We left for the airport before 7:00 a.m., not too bad. We arrived in
San Cristóbal a little after 10:00 p.m. Nothing compared to those who travel to
Africa or Southeast Asia, but still a good day’s travel.
We had no issues along the way. No missed connections. No
problems while on the way. We did have to circle the airport in Tuxtla Gutierrez.
It is a little disconcerting when the pilot puts down the landing gear, you see
the control tower, and then the pilot lifts the landing gear and powers back
up.
We are staying at La Casa de Carmelita again this year.
She had a wonderful dinner of stewed chicken and vegetables, rice, and, of
course, tortillas. We then walked the four or five blocks down to the city
center. The only places still open were a few bars and many restaurants, but we
were at least able to get some fresh air.
It is chilly here. Tuxtla was about 80o when
we landed at 8:00 p.m. When we got to San Cristóbal de Las Casas, it was in the
40s.
Tomorrow, we are able to sleep in a little and then we go
to the Seminary for orientation. We will
learn about the history of the Mayan people under Spanish and Mexican rule. We
will learn about the way the Seminary is working with churches throughout the
area. We will also get a chance to meet a few of the Seminary students and hear
about their work in the area of sustainable development.
San Cristóbal is the hub of the Zapatista rebellion in
1994. When NAFTA went into effect, some of the people in Southern Mexico saw it
as a disaster for the people. They led a revolt against the Mexican government.
When we head to Chacacal on Monday, we will see some of the Zapatista
communities that still consider themselves independent of Mexico.
We also found out that Chuck Shawver will be taking us to
Tonina to tour the Mayan temple. I am glad that we will be able to reconnect.
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