A life-changing experience
A phrase that is loosely used in today’s society is, “this changed my life.” The magnitude of this statement is so profound that it should only be said when a life-changing event has actually occurred. When previous D.R.E.A.M.S. participants stated that this mission trip changed their lives, I was very skeptical. I wondered how a 7-day trip could possibly produce such a powerful statement. Now that I have experienced this mission trip for myself, I can confidently say that the D.R.E.A.M.S. trip is nothing short of life changing. The new perspective I have gained on life is one that I would never imagine obtaining myself. I gained so much knowledge and insight from D.R.E.A.M.S. whether it be from the villagers of Los Arroyos or the mere encounters of its magnificent landscape and the village itself. I was able to understand the importance of community, something that is difficult to grasp when you live in a self-reliant society. It occurred to me that the poorest of the poor did everything in their power to help each other even when they have nothing. It was a powerful insight because the people of the west are so apathetic and reluctant to help their neighbour even when we have more than enough material wealth.
A key realization from this trip is that possessions do not determine your happiness. We have all heard this statement before, yet being able to experience it rather than just hearing it makes it come to life. Every day I played with the children and the villagers who had nothing, however, the smiles on their faces did not fade. Problems that would seem earth shattering to us were everyday occurrences to them that they overcome on a daily basis. I realize that the problems we face are so minimal and we should never let those problems determine our happiness or our outlook on life. If we all became more grateful for what we are given in life, just as the villagers are, the word happy would not just be a dream it would become a reality. The D.R.E.A.M.S. trip was everything I expected and so much more. Experiencing life in a third world country first hand is such an eye opener because although we are only hours away, there is a world of a difference between us especially in our perspectives in life.
A heartfelt thank you to my principal, teacher volunteers, my fellow D.R.E.A.M.S. participants and my parents for making this trip come to life. This experience will always hold a special place in my heart.