Picture courtesy Bicentenario ChileSeptember 18, 2010 is Chile’s Bicentennial. On this date in 1810, the fledgling Chilean government formed up to begin its long road to independence. Chile would have to fight for several more years to win its independence from Spain. In fact, Chile officially declared its independence on February 12, 1818.
2010 has been a very tough year for Chile. On February 27th, a massive 8.8 earthquake struck near Concepción, Chile, that with the accompanying tsunami killed several hundred people and left hundreds of thousands homeless.
The Chileans rallied to help their fellow countrymen and the spirit of solidarity and patriotism was palatable in the air.
This year, Chile celebrates its birthday with a grateful heart for a recovery and a hope for a brighter future.
¡Viva Chile!
What do you think? Have a question? Share your thoughts by commenting on the blog.
Best Regards,
Pepe
www.pepeschile.com
P.S. Are you going to Chile? Avoid culture shock by reading my Gringo's Culture Guide to Chile.
Hey, We don't know each other! I found this blog looking for a bicentennial photo for my facebook profile and what a coincidence! I'm member of the church too. I live in Santiago and my ward is in Rancagua Chile Mission, so probably I'll never meet your son Elder Leavitt but it's good to know that he writes such a great things about my country. My ward's name is "Esperanza" and we have a missionary here called "Elder Welling", I know his brother is serving in Chile Santiago West Mission.
ReplyDeleteIn a couple of weeks I'll leave this beautiful country to live in Canada for a year, so I will be like Elder Leavitt, improving the lenguage and understanding the culture! A few weeks ago I created a blog like this to get in contact with my family and friends during my time in Canada...catacampos.blogspot.com, visit it if you want.
I'll keep reading this blog because I liked it and its like a story....Greets from Chile...say hi to your son and ....VIVA CHILE!
Catalina, how exciting that you found our blog. Our daughter's brother-in-law is serving in the Rancagua Mission - Elder Crowley. Also, we are originally from Canada. What part will you be living in? Let's keep in touch.
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