Each day we are getting to know more Mexicans who live in Poland, who study, work or just discover the great things that Poland offers. This time we made a short interview with Guillermo Aguinaga Pantoja, a who has been living in Poland for many years. Please welcome Guillermo, a Mexican priest in Poland.
What is your name? Where were you born? Where do you live in Poland? How long have you been living in Poland?
My name is Guillermo Aguiñaga Pantoja, I am from Leon, Guanajuato. I lived in Poland from 1994 to 2000. After a while living in Sudan, South Africa, Mexico and Italy I decided to move again to Poland in 2013.
Why did you decide to move to Poland?
At first it was a joke, I told my superiors that I could be a missionary in Poland, I though they would not listen to me because obviously I was joking. But in the end they took it really seriously and they sent me here. The second time I moved here it was because they asked me to help in this country.
What are you doing in Poland?
I am a Comboni missionary, my mission is to visit churches, seminaries, schools and to invite people to help with projects supporting places like Africa, Latin American and Asia. Also, I invite young people to have experience in catholics missions abroad.
What do you like the most about living in Poland?
The people, the culture, the traditions, the landscapes and places. The amiability, hospitality and generosity of the Polish people once they get to know you and accept you.
What is it that you do not like about living in Poland?
Just one thing that is really uncomfortable for me is the extreme weather during winter and the cloudy days. But when you finally adapt to this country that will be a normal thing. The rigor and conservatism in various aspects of social and religious life. Also, the extremism of certain radical groups (when it comes to e.g. immigration).
One more thing, the language is really rich and nice, but it is also really hard. You may be able to speak it but you will not be able to know 100% and sometimes you are limited and unable to express openly and clearly.
Was it easy to get used to living in Poland?
It varies from person to person, depends on whether you are unprejudiced and you accept the challenge to immerse yourself in the Polish world, especially in the language, which affects your adaptation process.
Are you planning to live in Poland forever?
That would be perfect, but because of my work and vocation, I know that I will not be here for a lot of time, I will have to go to other places where I will be required to help.
Would you recommend other Mexicans to move to Poland?
Yes, I would recommend it because of lots of job opportunities, and because other Mexicans that I have met in Poland are happy with their life here, with their families.
What do you miss from Mexico?
Like a real Mexican, I miss my family, the weather, our people, places, regions, traditions and our unique food. The hospitality, generosity and spontaneity of the Mexican people.
Describe Poland in 3 words
- RICH in traditions and culture. It has been able to rise after destruction.
- BEAUTIFUL country with its people and places.
- MYSTERIOUS and conservative on its faith, history and past.
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