When I was little I would dream of what it would be like once I grew up. For the children here it is no such dream, but rather a reality, and not a very pleasant one at that. Many have to begin working at a very young age in order to help support their family. Their childhood is cut short because they are forced to grow up. I wondered how in such horrible conditions, every child I waved to put a huge grin on their face? Why every time I sang “the princess pat,” they got so excited?
It took a while for me to realize that they weren't necessarily living in a constant state of bliss, but rather each time we came to play with them, we were bringing a little light to their life. We were giving them something to be happy about. Knowing that you can bring joy into a child's life is one of the most fulfilling things in the world. It gives meaning to life.
At first I hated not having my cell phone, not being able to call or text message when ever I wanted to. But I've started to really enjoy not having it. I feel like being here has been an opportunity to take a break from all of the chaos for a while. It's a different kind of chaos over here. People are busy with important things like trying to provide the basic, bare minimal essentials of life. At home it's so easy to get caught up in all of the trivial, worldly things that don't matter. We have so much that it tends to cloud our views on the things that really matter.
Each day instead of worrying about what I could do for myself, I have started to seek out ways to help others. Being around all of the uplifting people in our group has made the trip that much more enjoyable. Through the sharing of their short reports, playing games at night, and taking interesting taxi rides, we have all become very close. I have met some of the most amazing people on this trip who have taught me new things, and have become dear friends who I will forever cherish.
Not only have we had to overcome several mental challenges, but there have been physical challenges as well. Climbing “Mt. Everest” was one of the hardest things I have ever done. There were so many times where I wanted to turn around and go back down, but the encouragement of others kept me going. Standing on top of the mountain, I was overcome with such a strong sense of accomplishment.
Despite my shaking legs, and sweaty clothes I felt like I could do anything right then. Walking across the canopy walk, it hit me that no where else could I do that. Ghana has provided once in a life time opportunities that have begun to shape my personality and outlook on life.
This trip has taught me so much about myself. Getting through a month of living in another country brings a sense of accomplishment in itself. But more than that, I have discovered how much I enjoy teaching. The feeling I get standing in front of a class room full of eager students, is like nothing else. It makes me so happy to watch the students process the information and ask questions.
Whether it's teaching them about AIDS or just a silly song, I love the feeling it brings. My appreciation for education has increased significantly as well. Whether or not I have had an impact on the people here in Ghana, they will forever have impacted me.
