No alarm clock is necessary. One is awakened by the clamor of enthusiastic schoolchildren gathering outside the window. The vivacious commotion commences about the same time the first rays of sunshine begin to peer through that same window. It’s early. But not much thought is given to that. The world seems to move at a different pace here. Oh, there’s many tasks to be accomplished and lots of work to be done during the day. Then again it seems things are more laid-back in this place. Activities scheduled at a specified time may or may not happen at that time. But don’t worry, everything that needs to be completed will get done. Rest is built into the rhythm of the day and one certainly doesn’t go hungry with the methodic positioning of meal times. There’s oodles of room for play. In fact, play is a priority and it’s almost as if it’s intentionally programmed into the day. And then the day seems to end as the last flickers of the sun’s rays peer through that same window. It’s almost as if no clock is necessary here at all.

They call in mañana land. And I like it!

My family had the privilege of spending this past week in mañana land. It’s otherwise known as New Life Children’s Home in Villa Nueva, Guatemala (nlai.org). For over thirty years now orphaned, abandoned and abused children have found a refuge and safe haven at New Life Children’s Home. It is truly a home where the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of children are addressed. And it is there in manana land where I had an awakening to my own physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

They call it mañana land. And it means “later.”

Yes, mañana is used in the Spanish language to mean “morning” or “tomorrow”. But often it refers to “later” indicating not a specific time but some moment in the blurred future. It’s not about procrastinating and putting off something indefinitely but it’s all about living at a different pace. In manana land we got up with the sun each morning. We worked every day. An apartment got painted, trees were trimmed, the kid’s height and weight got recorded, medical files were updated, errands were run and plenty of other tasks were accomplished. Work was politely interrupted by rhythms of eating and resting. And we played. Each afternoon, after the homework has been put away and the work and chores are suspended, everyone gathers outside (it’s also the land of eternal spring) and plays. It is a time for simple games of tag, competitive soccer contests and robust wrestling matches. It’s a time that’s good for the soul. It’s a land that’s good for the soul.

They call it mañana land. And I brought a peace (spelling intended) of it home.