We can be the change

They say that most of your service experience isn’t processed until you arrive home and allow yourself to see your old home with new eyes.

They say once you embark on a journey of service with a full and open heart, you never turn back.

They also say it makes you “ruined for life”.

So far, I would say, they know what they are talking about.

My last week in Jamaica was probably the most memorable week of my experience. Sad, sad, sad, it filled my heart with love, gratefulness, sorrow and excitement.

It taught me about the patience of a teacher, the love of a family, the faith of the strongest, the connectedness of humanity at the most basic level and the importance of being fully present in ones life.

I will miss them. I will miss the children. Their laughter, their tears, when they romp with each other. I will miss the school in all its chaos. I will miss the culture of community and the way you spark up conversation with any and all people you encounter. I will miss exclamations of “Bless Up!” or even “Whitey!” on the road. I will miss singing choruses as I walk children home from school. I will miss Lauren, Betsy and Michela who started as an amazing community, and now have become more like sisters.

I will miss Jamaica, but it won’t end here. Jamaica will always be in my heart and will be a constant reminder to me of the world that is out there. Jamaica will always remind me of the injustices around the world, and even in our own state, city or neighborhood. The forgotten children. The struggling families. The neglected elderly. The dedicated teacher. And now I am back in the States, ready to embark on this new journey, keeping Jamaica with me and knowing that little things matter. These injustices are within our grasp.

Cliché but true, we can be the change. I believe Ghandi to be true.

Thank you for being a part of my journey and experience this year through my blog. I started it as a way to keep those close to me updated on my adventures, and it turned into being a gateway to tremendous love and support, so Thank you! I have been blessed and have only wanted to share this blessing.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world”- Mahatma Gandhi