Omar

Omar Gradiz was the first and last person in Nicaragua that I saw. I truly believe that if it wasn't for Omar, this trip would have been a lot different. Right away, Omar made me feel very comfortable and safe. There were only 3 people in our mission group, so we each got to know Omar pretty well. He was funny, happy, patient, kind, and just a very good-hearted person. I asked him if he missed his family, because I hadn't realized that he was going to be away from his home for long, too. When he thought of them you could just see the happiness and longing for them in his eyes. But he simply replied "I've got to pay the bills," and that was all. He was so hard working and would stay up late and always ask if we needed anything at all. I believe Omar is a blessing to my life. He helped me through this meaningful experience with no complaints and a smile on his face. I'm sure he gets bored or wants his friends and family but he never once complained and always put us and our needs first. I got to see some amazing, eye-opening things this January, and I will always be thankful for my trip to Nicaragua and Omar Gradiz.