Shifted Perspective

Where do I begin?  There's so much to tell but I'll simply start with: there's no experience like the one I'm having this week.

You might think that these are just words, but I do have a good reference.

I grew up in a pretty rough part of town where the local churches would organize trips for many of the less fortunate kids in the neighborhood.  After finally being able to go on one of the trips, I realized that I'd rather volunteer and help than just be a participant.  That was when I was 15 years old.  Over 20 years later, I still volunteer in youth programs...but, I repeat, there's no experience like the one I'm having this week.

I met Andrew via a networking group a couple years ago and heard him boast of this amazing trip to Jamaica to help the kids of Kingston.  At first. I thought it was just a trip to do some construction work to help build communities of those whose don't have the funds to.  I later found it to be much more.  Andrew collected this group of volunteers that pretty much didn't know each other, updated us and prepared us for what was in store.  He mentioned that we'd be connecting with disabled kids, kids with AIDS, and helping with various labor tasks... but what he couldn't tell us is exactly what the entire experience would be to us.

Each day, so far, has been an emotional roller coaster. From the first connection I made with local resident, Donovan, to the kids I found difficult to make connections with but really want to.  I've been filled with joy to be a part of their day, yet sad that the help I can give is limited. These connections and missed connections have been teaching me quite a bit about myself and my perspective of life has shifted.  If all I can do right now is help build a place for them to gain comfort and be present, then I'm more than glad to be here.

...and a HUGE bonus on this trip is the "Awesome" group of like-hearted individuals I'm doing this with.  Through our experience and reflection sessions, I'm learning a lot about them and hope to learn more down the line.  I'm looking forward to what the rest of this trip has in store as it's been nothing but a gift.

~matt (newbie)