I just returned from a mission trip to the mountains of Nicaragua. The warmth, friendliness and acceptance I experienced there was beyond compare. And, considering they lead simple, honest lives, I experienced true authenticity as well.
As part of a six-person volunteer team from our church, we were encouraged to set aside our North American habits and truly embrace the Nicaraguan way of life — with its own rhythms, values and cultural perspective. What a gift that turned out to be. The Nicas welcomed us with open arms, their hardworking nature and joyful spirit.
Even though many had very little, they greeted us with smiles, warmth and a genuine contentment that spoke volumes. Living in their humble homes made of metal sheets, we came to understand something profound: peace doesn’t come from a beautiful house, nor does happiness arrive with a shiny car or designer clothes. Real joy, we discovered, flows from the basics — food, shelter, love and the strength of human connection. And here’s something remarkable: Nicaragua holds the lowest crime rate in Central America, a reflection of the peaceful spirit and resilience of its people.
Our team poured heart and sweat into expanding a camp for Nicaraguan high schoolers, answering the call as demand grew. We built a retaining wall, carved out trails that snaked through mountains and into the jungle, brightened up buildings with fresh coats of paint and got our hands dirty learning how to grow coffee beans. Each task strengthened the camp — but more importantly, it helped uplift the Nicas and supported their vision for what mattered most. In return, they gave us something we didn’t even know we were missing: a deeper appreciation for a life rich in simplicity and meaning.
Every year, Young Life Nicaragua welcomes groups from churches, high schools and colleges across the U.S. Some come to La Finca to swing hammers and mix cement, while others head into cities to support youth ministries in the barrios. Our team did a bit of everything — welcoming teens to camp, cleaning the dining hall, setting up activities. And while my Spanish was no muy bueno, the collective energy and strong sense of teamwork bridged the gap.
Young Life Nicaragua has a two-fold mission: to introduce young Nicaraguans to the Christian faith and to help North Americans see the depth and richness of Nicaraguan culture and community. My time there continues to reset my compass toward what truly matters — and it’s sparked a renewed vision for ministry at home.
As I look back on what I truly need versus what I think I want, I’m reminded of the Nicas — their sense of contentment and how it contrasts with the ambitions and pressures I often see back home. This trip left me with a sore throat and an achy back… but also with a heart full of gratitude.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to support a cause that really matters. To learn from people whose way of life is vastly different from mine, and to carry those lessons into my every day. Their example reminds me that fulfillment isn’t found in abundance, but in intention — in community, in purpose and in slowing down enough to truly see the beauty in what’s already there.
