Plymouth Magazine-Summer24-DIGITAL - Flipbook - Page 15
My Story of Spiritual Growth
By Barbara Yankey
The summer of 1967, I found myself
in rural Hildago, Mexico with the
American Friends Service Committee. I
had applied to go to Mississippi to assist
with voter registration, but no more
volunteers were needed. Mexico was my
next option.
In Minneapolis, I boarded the pink
Braniff Airplane bound for Mexico.
Next to me was sat an enchanted
newlywed couple. Therefore I had time
to contemplate what was ahead of me.
In Mexico City, volunteers attended
programs to accumulate us to the
culture. Our group had 10 college
students, the supervising couple and
their two children. The four men were
to work on the aqueduct near the
village. The six women planned to teach
hygienic practices. Weekly trips into
town allowed for shopping and a shower
in a cement stall occupied with critters.
Noche social was every Friday evening
with dancing and games. We experienced
a funeral for a child. I attended grade
school. My bed couldn’t be made until
the rooster was shood off. My life was
enriched far more than anything I
offered them. I was truly blessed.
The photos on this page are from
Barbara’s trip to Mexico.
About the Author
Barbara “Barb” Yankey is a mom,
grandma, friend, neighbor, retired
hospice social worker and nurse.
She is a defender of social justice and
equality of basic needs.
Plymouth
PlymouthMagazine
Magazine 15