The water they used came from unsafe sources and often had a bad taste and smell. In the community, people called it “agua pesada,” meaning water that felt contaminated and unhealthy. Uriel’s wife would often warn him, “That water is bad,” but they had no other option. To get enough water for daily needs, the family walked 400 meters to the nearest well three or four times a day. Sometimes the children missed school because it was their turn to help carry water.
Uriel worked hard every day and made sacrifices to provide for his family. When the opportunity to join the water project came, he knew it would require commitment and some financial investment. Even when he was tired, he never stopped working because he believed the project was worth the effort. All the while, Uriel prayed for change. He remembers thinking, “God saw us when this project came.” Even in difficult moments, he did not lose hope.
Uriel gives all credit to God for everything. With this new found stability, he has begun dreaming about the future. He hopes to improve his home by building a washing area and eventually a bathroom. He wants to start with his own family and then continue supporting the development of his community.
He feels deeply grateful, believing God answered their prayers. To other communities that still lack water, he says: “We must always ask God. There is no other way but on our knees. We cannot give up. Everything comes in God’s time.”
