Santa Anita, Guatemala

Marconî was his guerrila name, created during the years he fought in the mountains. That was how he introduced himself. After the years of fighting in the mountains, experiencing hunger, cold, wet, and uncomfortable conditions, and witnessing the death of companeros, it seems logical that guerrilla name would stick. He spoke directly to us all, looking around the room to include everyone in eye contact. He told his story, and through that, the story of Guatemala. The soft and calming presence of his voice was a testamont to his humbe and strong spirit. His is like the voice of many here in Santa Anita---voices having lived through a great deal, but still speaking as human beings equal to all others, and as deserving as all others. The strength of this community is inspiring. Coming together in 1998, two years after the peace accords to start anew. Bringing 37 families together to begin again--to farm and survive in a way that would bring dignity and hope to their children. The coffee they drink--not nesquick, but strong, dark cofee they cultivate, seems a metaphor for their own work---strong and good.