It's been two years since I've travelled internationally, and five years since I've written a blog. Sometimes you need a break from things, even a forced break, to realize how much it means to you. Between 2019 and 2021, my world did some somersaults, shaking me off balance and causing me to re-evaluate and recommit to the things in my life.
Although not exactly by choice, taking two years off of traveling with CGA gave me the space needed to remember why I love this work and why it is so important to me. I was given time to work on my business, my mental health, and enjoy summers at home.
In April, we went on our first service trip to Nicaragua. Our group was full of fresh faces and open minds. The school of El Tambo was bustling with eager students and apprehensive, excited teachers. Each day, our group grew more comfortable with their roles, their students grew more confidence in their English, and the teachers gave over more control. We immersed ourselves in the culture, taking in every little lesson we could from these amazing people. Our volunteers took their feedback and used it to improve every lesson they taught. On home visits, we sat with our students' families and learned about their lives. They told us about their struggles, their triumphs, and their hopes for the future. It was no surprise that their loved ones were the most valued parts of their lives.
As the week rushed by, we all became more attached, more invested and more in love with everyone we met. We cried for Yahaira, who had never seen her children's faces clearly. We celebrated with Jose Daniel as he spoke of the success of his latest surgeries. We listened in awe as Guadalupe explained the strength of her community and the things they accomplished together. When the final day of school came, no one was ready to be finished, the endless opportunities for learning lay before us like an unexplored landscape. Games were played, prizes were given, laughs were had and cultures were shared. We began the task of fundraising to tear down a dilapidated building, repair broken desks and bring back to life a few swing sets. We were able to raise over $2000 for these items with an online fundraiser, so thank you everyone!
Being back in this element made me realize how much this is a part of who I am. I live for these experiences, this connection, these breakthroughs and all the people I meet. I feel present on these trips, completely in the moment, immersed in every lesson and every smile. The joy of our students radiates through me, the sorrow of the families who struggle, the pride of our volunteers as they master their lessons. Yes, I get to travel the world; yes, I get to experience unique opportunities; but these trips are so much more than this. These trips are about connection, appreciation, humility and greater humanity. These trips are about opening our eyes and our minds to all else that exists beyond ourselves.
