OUR STORIES
This section includes the following stories written by several Amigos reflecting on their experiences in Mexico:
Ron D’Aloisio - Guajolote Bus (1962)
- The Institute (1962)
- The Photograph (1962)
- Crossing Over (1965)
Dan Onorato – Water for La Villita (1964)
Terry Dugan – Amigos Reflections (1965)
Chuck Clay – Huandacareo Diary of Wylda Hannon Clay (1967)
Evelyn (Kohl) LaTorre – Adventures in Apaseo
George Mills - The Vigil
Maura O'Brien – Amigos Anonymous Influences
Catherine Enos - Catalina's Story (1980 to date)
[To read the stories just click on the drop down tabs under "Our Stories"]
Hopefully many more Amigos will be encouraged to share their stories as the idea is afloat to create a book that would focus on our stories of what happened in Mexico, on what helped us and our Mexican friends grow, and on how our lives have been shaped by our experiences there. The purpose of the book would not be to reminisce for nostalgia’s sake but to inspire young people today to dedicate part of their youth, as we did 50 years ago, to the service of others.
Contrary to popular perception, increasing numbers of young people are turning toward community service in well-known organizations like AmeriCorps, Teach for America, and City Year, as well as many local agencies all over the country. Other groups like the Peace Corps and Jesuit Volunteers continue to attract volunteers for commitments abroad. At a time when government services throughout the country are being sliced from budgets while needs are increasing, volunteerism will likely grow. With stories of how an earlier generation’s lives were enriched by its work in Mexico and its subsequent commitments in communities throughout this country, our book would encourage this same kind of dedication among today’s youth.
This is our goal. But to make it happen we need more stories. Take time to read the stories here on the website; enjoy what you read, ruminate over your own experiences, let go the censor that says you’re not good enough to write, and take the leap into transforming your memories and distilling their meaning into words. We hope you’ll be inspired to write and submit your story. Again, the purpose is not merely to look back on the “good old days” recalling the funny or entertaining times, but to share experiences that helped us learn something important about ourselves and life, and that consequently shaped our lives and the social commitments we have embraced. So give some thought to what you might write, and write it. Don’t fret over presenting a finished product. We’re looking for stories that can be developed into moving accounts of what we’re deeply thankful for because it enhanced the quality of our lives and helped others along the way.
Send your stories (in a Word document or similar e-file) to: Dan Onorato at [email protected] or to Mike Miller at [email protected].