Hello from Durham, California! After a quick rest in Berkeley, I am happily home. It feels good, doesn’t it? Have you had your In-N-Out? I actually enjoyed a croissant and coffee breakfast. I am missing Dilenia’s full feast though. Where is my eggplant now?
It has been an honor and privilege to travel with all of you. Every day was an opportunity to see and do things I was completely unfamiliar with. For me, it was reassuring to share this with all of you as your perspectives grew, your foreign travel experience expanded and your understanding of global concerns grew. Your enthusiasm and confident willingness to explore Constanza provided leadership for our group as well as fresh, curious eyes. Your passion and focus brought new light to the role of what effective leadership looks like. The empathy and kindness you shared with our new friends at Cañada de Las Palmas offered a sincere reminder of the style of leaders you will continue to be – compassionate, caring, and courageous.
As I share our experiences with my family, I realize every day offered much personal growth for me. I must admit though our day swimming in the Caribe at Juan Dolio seems to be a definite fave. After our trip to the sugar cane fields, I am reminded again of our privilege at home and the work that goes into proving me with my food. Then, floating in the salty sea! Ever-so-fulfilling!!! Our direct experiences sorting cucumbers reminded me of our privilege and the expectation to always have that perfect fruit. Being the not-so-quiet observer of all your card games was fabulous. Samantha will be watching for all of you at the next board game conference (I never did get to share cribbage. Next time). And you know how much I enjoyed talking to all the community members – everywhere we went. Having that 1:1 helped me understand the challenges that folks deal with daily. My biggest take-away is how those challenges are faced with a smile and lots of hard work.
Hopefully we will meet again during the “Virtual Post Trip Bring It Home” workshop or as you become the GG Alumni Ambassador reaching even further to expand your personal horizons. You are all so very capable and dedicated to your future, I am confident, your efforts will sustain all around you.
Sending you peace, joy, and a relaxing end to your ever-so-busy summer!
Cheers!
Katy, your final blog was soo heartwarming to read. It isn’t surprising to hear that your students were as incredible as this but ohhh how beautiful to hear that you also grew from the GG experience. We thank you for diving freely into leading a trip for Global Glimpse and we’re looking forward to your leadership as well as advocacy in the years to come. Big Love!