Susan Drew is a customer with First Federal Savings Bank that joins us on many one day trips and is well known as one of our models each year at our Ladies Luncheon and Style Show. Susan spends a lot of time in Costa Rica teaching and helping many of the women there learn new skills to help them support their family. We love Susan's drive and inspiration to help others. Here is what she had to say about her experience.
This is my fourth year as a missionary in Chilimate, Costa Rica. It is located in the north west of San José. The temperature ranges from 85-95 and rain 3-4 times a day in the dry season. I live with the same family every year.
They care for me and are very protective. It is a simple life, cold showers, poor lighting, muddy paths, and a host of insects give me the desire to return, but most of all it is the Costa Rica people.
I teach several classes in the Rain forest during my six month stay. In the outdoor kitchen I instruct classes on baking cookies, cakes, frostings and pastries. The greatest challenge continues to be the use of the measuring cups. There is always a waiting list for the sewing and embroidery classes. I keep the class size small 5-6 students,so I can give individual help. I write the curriculum for the classes with the student request in mind.
Their desire to learn is overwhelming. I instruct with my limited Spanish. My students tell me I am improving with their language. We laugh together when I teach them English and they teach me Spanish.
There are very few job opportunities in this village. It is a very poor area. The people take care of each other. When they have beans and rice on
their table, they feel blessed and very thankful.
My mission is to teach cottage industries. This will allow the women to earn money for their families.
I never considered being a missionary for my retirement years however, God had a bigger and better plan for me.
This is a challenge of a life time and I am blessed for being the chosen one.
Susan
