“Live simply that others might live simply.” -Ann Sexton. Something that hit us on the head today was that aid can be just as harmful as it is helpful. What surprised me the most today was the process of how recycled paper is made. I am very proud of how close we’re getting as a group and how we work together as a team. The two most inspiring people that I met today were Itzayana and Augustina because they have been working at the recycled paper site from the start, as we say “day one,” and are the only two original mujeres (women) left working at the Mujeres Ambientalistas.
Today it felt good to be El Lider Del Dia. I called myself El Cap-i-tan, and made sure I had a lot of positive energy for my team to feed off of. At the beginning of the day, I had set a goal for myself which was to be the translator for the group. Being that I’m not too confident with my Spanish this was very difficult for me. I was very hesitant at first but then after a while I started to become more confident with translating Spanish into English and vice versa. Something that I learned about myself today was that it’s important to step out of your comfort zone in order to grow as an individual and as a global citizen.
Very interesting , very well written. I see you Christian 🙂
I’m so pleased to see u guys enjoying yourself. I look fwd to reading your daily blogs . Keep up the good work . Stay safe . God bless. Hello my child
You guys seem to be having the time of your lives!
Sarah and Jessica thank you for keeping them safe! Enrique
I miss you take great pictures!
Interesting to hear you say that aid can be as harmful as it is helpful. I was just reading an interesting article about that the other day. I think it’s important for Americans to keep in mind that when they are doing “service” they are actually receiving a service as well… You are getting so much from the experience abroad – possibly much more than you are giving… I love imagining you as El Capitan – I’m sure you were great… and I’m glad you are being forced to use your Spanish! It’s good for you! Much love and see you all when you return.
Esto es impresionante!
Kevin, I’m so proud of you. It’s not easy to step out of your comfort zone, but that’s where all the best growth happens! Your reflection on aid is interesting, and so important. Aid can take so many forms, and what you’re doing is the best kind. Human to human connection building, learning and growth. It sounds like you learned a lot from the original mujeres, and found your confidence in Spanish. Wonderful! I can’t tell you all how much fun it is to read your posts and envision what’s going on! I hope you’re all taking lots of photos and are ready to tell the story over and over again when you return! 🙂
I see that you are accumulating sunglasses, Christian. You guys should know that this one time Christian “borrowed” my pen. So, keep your eyes open. It seems like Kevin is not going to be the best one to keep first watch. I think this would be a good job for Jessenia… I would also trust Chanei.
Your words couldn’t be more true – it’s important to step out of your comfort zone in order to grow! That is just one of those lessons that will follow you wherever you are and throughout your life 🙂 What an amazing experience you and your fellow global glimpsers are having, learning about each other and yourselves as you provide support to those who need it. I am so proud of you all and can’t wait to hear more about this trip in your future posts!
It looks like you are having an amazing experience. I love the Anne Sexton quote. I’m also curious about how aid can harm more than help. What have you seen that inspired this thought? I’m excited to hear more about your experiences. Keep spreading the positive vibes, Cap-i-tan!