I would like to share these profound and elegant words written by my friend Jane in Maryland, a 17-year-old high school student who will be returning to Guayaquil, Ecuador for a week this summer on a mission trip. About her trip last summer, Jane wrote that it was the "most wonderful experience of my life." This is an excerpt from her trip reflection:
"I can still hear Mercedes singing. I can still feel the warm embrace of Pedro's hugs. I can still smell Sister Annie's famous aroz con pollo. I can still see the sadness on Juan's face when he told us his story. Almost eight months later and Ecuador is still very much alive. In my mind. In my heart. In my words. In my actions. I still get chills every time I think about it.
That is the power of Ecuador. That is the beauty of Ecuador. It changes your life forever.
As a result of the trip, I am stronger, braver, more thoughtful, more intentional, more simplistic, more grateful, more inspired ... and most importantly, happier - happier than I have ever been in my life.
There is something magical about that charming country - and I think it's the people. Although they might be materialistically poor, the Ecuadoreans are rich in spirituality - perhaps the richest people I have ever met. Through their selfless actions, devout faith, and immense gratitude, they have taught me more than any book ever could. They see us, the volunteers, as an extraordinary gift from God, but I see them as the truly extraordinary gift.
I never realized how much of an impact these people would have on my life - and in such a short amount of time. It was only after looking at things in retrospect that I discovered their true influence. I think about Abel and Pedro and Esther and Wellington every day. I think about their struggles, their sorrows, and their joys. And I think of all of the wonderful little moments we shared. And I can't decide if I should cry or smile. Cry because I miss them so much my heart hurts or smile because I was blessed to get to know such amazing people. How can I ever repay someone who changed my life?"
Jane and the others in her youth group will volunteer with the U.S. based nonprofit DAMIEN HOUSE, a residential hospital for over 60 patients with Hansen's disease (formerly leprosy) and 700 outpatients. Patients receive dental care, physical therapy, medication, and three hot meals daily. The group is busy fundraising to cover the trip costs and support Damien House. Once there, they will work with patients and live simply to reflect on the experience.
Donations are being accepted at the address below. Payable to St. Joseph Parish with "JANE L, ECUADOR 2013" in memo line:
St. Joseph Parish Youth Ministry
c/o Carlo Stebbings
100 Church Lane
Cockeysville MD 21030
