(Some of the kids and I in Kurland Village)
I have always loved helping others even being a little kid. Coming into college I never knew how I could truly do that in a way that would make a lasting impact.
Then, I found out about the service trip to South Africa. I sat there and thought to myself, wow South Africa would be an AMAZING experience. In order to go on this trip one had to answer a series of questions then a panel of chosen individuals would read the answers and decides who goes on this experience of a lifetime.
I remember getting the email saying I have in fact received that opportunity. I smiled with joy and immediately called my parents. I had to really fundraise for some of the money because it was a costly trip - but the chance to go to South Africa was worth everything. I ultimately fundraising a lot of the money from family, and friends.
It was finally time to head across the world. The flight was extremely long but every second of being tired was worth what I was about to endeavor.
We stayed at a place called Rocky Road. This was a place where people stayed who were working in the village we were or were just visiting South Africa. Mac and Rocky were the two guys that are in charge of the whole place and are two of the greatest people I have ever met. They were extremely down to earth and welcoming.
We stayed in tents outside that had mattresses inside of them and were very comfortable. However hearing the baboons in the morning was creepy. We ate a home cooked meal every night and it was interesting to try the different foods.
Now, here is what we actually did during our stay! There was a village about 5 minutes down the road called Kurland Village. This village had houses that were actually made out of cement, and then there were those houses that were one room, made out of wood, and were falling down. These sites were extremely sad to see and really made me think about my own life and how much I am truly grateful for.
The group then went to the house that we were going to help. This houses needed repainting inside and out; a little tlc. We chipped the paint in 4 rooms in the inside and on the outside of the house. After chipping everything away we had to sand and ultimately repaint. It was hard work but to see the faces of the women and children who lived in that house was worth it.
We even had some little helpers! Kids in the area flocked towards us and wanted to help in any way they could. It was really cool to see the kids wanting to help us. These kids also changed my perspective on my life. Here they were with no shoes on, toys made out of sticks, and clothing that looked either to big or to small for them; even though they did not have a lot they were the happiest kids I have ever seen, happier than those living here in the United States.
Exploring South Africa was very rewarding. I love visiting places outside of the US because they are all gorgeous. We went on a little safari, hiked mountains to views I would have never imagined, and swam in the Indian Ocean - amazing huh?
When it was time to go home I looked back on all I had done in the last 2 weeks and could not imagine my life without this experience. I am truly grateful to have been given this chance and to all those who made it happen for me.
My life has changed for the better and after school I am going to save my money and go back to Rocky Road and help the kids of Kurland Village, South Africa.
I am a simple girl with big dreams and intend to make those dreams happen.
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