San Antonio Learning Expedition: Option 1

Sebe Shearer

March 21, 1721

Dear Diary,
It has been a little over a year since the other Spaniards and I landed in America and opened the
San Jose mission. The journey has been long and hard, but I think things are finally starting to
pay off. The natives are finally starting to cooperate and the church has made huge bounds in
converting those savages! I love doing God’s work and saving souls! We have also put up more
buildings and are really taking control of the land. Within a few years, this area will be filled
with civilized, Christian men and women capable of farming/agriculture and properly worshiping
God. It’s getting late, I should probably get some rest. I have a big day ahead of me. Buenos
noches!
Sincerely,
Miguel y Aguero y Banderia

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March 23, 1721

Dear Diary,
Sorry I didn’t write yesterday! I had many chores to do around the mission. The bells began
ringing at dawn and I lead a prayer and religious instruction session for the natives. After that
was over, it was time for breakfast. I ate some delicious atole! Following breakfast was time for
work around the mission. Although it is mainly the natives working on their assigned chores, I
sometimes help out when I’m feeling generous. Yesterday was one of those days. I oversaw parts
of the construction of additional missions and the repairment of equipment. Around the mission,
guards were posted on the lookout for any raiders from enemy tribes. I stopped by their posts and
spoke of God’s purpose, which I think really encouraged them! I am very popular at the mission.
Anyway, after all that, the children went to learn about Catholicism from our priest, Father
Esteban. At noon, the bells rang again to signal prayer time and then lunch. I had a very nice
vegetable salad. Afterwards was a free time called “Siesta.” Although I could’ve done an entry
then, I was far too tired and took a long nap instead. Around 12:30, the natives resumed their
chores. We ended our workday around 2:30 and we had another evening worship and religious
instruction. Next was dinner and I, again, had some delicious atole! From that point on until
sunset was a recreational period. Fun fact about me, I am a wonderful dancer. I talked to Father
Esteban two nights ago and he agreed to let me teach Spanish dance classes to the natives during
this time. Last night was my first class and it went very well! I am excited for what the future
brings!
Sincerely,
Miguel y Aguero y Banderia
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March 24, 1721

Dear Diary,
You will never believe what has just happened! One of those savage natives refused to
participate in today’s worship session! He said us Spaniards were killing his culture and stealing
the land of his ancestors! Can you believe the audacity of this man? We are doing God’s work
and converting them from barbarians to civilized people! Anyway, after this fool’s outburst, he
was quickly grabbed by the sentries and locked in one of our rooms. Of course, he will have to
be punished and will most likely be put to death. I have no idea what made him react in this
unruly manner, but whatever caused him to make this upset is no excuse. We at the mission have
zero tolerance for their savage ways and beliefs. They need to be shown God’s light and it is my
duty as a Christian to teach them the Catholic way. Hopefully this will be the last time we hear
such ignorance. Adios.
Sincerely,
Miguel y Aguerdo y Banderia