Pivoting points

Nathan Spencer, a teaching assistant at San Antonio, looks back on his time in Quispicanchi and outlines moments where he grew in his final blog of the summer - 

My time in Quispicanchi has taught me the importance of pivoting and taking new perspectives. I get tunnel vision when it comes to my long-term goals, causing me to feel anxious about things that are ultimately unnecessary or wasteful. However, this summer I am beginning to understand the joy of embracing the unforeseen, simplifying my life, and relying on others.

 

During my time at San Antonio, I had the opportunity to learn how unexpected turns in life can be fulfilling. Spending “Día del Maestro” with my teammate Sofia and the principal, Profe Luz, was a highlight of my trip. We made cheese bread together and learned how Profe Luz became a teacher. 

She majored in biochemical engineering in college but found her passion in education. She has taught elementary and high school students, adults who are illiterate, and children with special needs for over forty years. 

I always plan five steps ahead, and it rarely goes how I intended. This used to frustrate me, but I now see it as an opportunity to pivot into something else that I enjoy. At our first weekly meeting, we were all excited to be here but uncomfortable and unsure. I was no exception, and my expectations of being here were far different than what I experienced- and this was for the better. This trip has taught me that there is more to life than climbing the next mountain, and I should enjoy uncertainty.

 

After visiting Sullumayo, I began to realize the beauty of simplicity and focusing on connections. 

Sullumayo is a rural community that we recently visited. While the community has its challenges with nutrition, hygiene, and financial stability, I was struck by how present and connected everyone was with each other. Dancing and playing soccer with the students was a highlight of my day, and it reminded me how essential relationships are to our happiness. I often take for granted simple things like having lunch with friends or going home on the weekend to spend time with my parents and focus on vapid goals and new accomplishments that matter very little to me after I achieve them. 

 

Finally, I have learned that relying on others is necessary to grow and change. I used to believe that needing help from others and depending on others to help you overcome your own problems was a weakness. A certain humility comes with dependence, and admitting when you are lost, and need help is a sign of growth. Whether it's my teammates helping me translate ideas to the people that work the social enterprise, the teachers at San Antonio helping me teach the students how to knit and dance, or the students helping me build a huatia, I realize that needing others makes me a happier and better person.