This year marks my 30th birthday, and for me, challenges and obstacles are becoming more of a test of will and personal sacrifice. Being what I have been through in the last two years, with traveling and writing my first poetry book, I realized, I accomplished a lot more than just achievements, I have gain so much knowledge when it comes to personal growth, but I still lack certain understanding of what it takes to get to that next level. This summer has made me see things different as far as appreciating things more, and living in the moment, instead of waiting for the moment to come to you, thanks to a group of young travelers, from Spain and Brazil, who dedicated three weeks of their lives, and open up apart of their lives to me, that has been missing from my life for a very long time. Three weeks in actuality isn't much time in reality, but sometimes reality can be a little misleading. I had three weeks, every morning, I taught a group of amped teenagers, who wanted to learn to speak better English, as well as grow through sports and the arts. When I took this position for the duration of the summer, I just wanted to save enough money for my next destination, but little did I know, these kids were about to teach me something, I needed to learn about myself, instead of seeking it elsewhere. They taught me about love, and love is something that we have around us, and with the right connection and the right people, we don't need to look far for it. For three weeks, these kids invited me into their lives and shares stories with me some amazing stories about their family and friend. We develop a bond, that not even time can replace. I had the chance to meet their group leader, Jorge who was from Spain Madrid, and he was one of the nicest and down to earth human being I ever met. He helped open my mind to new ideas and thoughts. These kids became in a way my own kids, they trust me in ever way, from discussion about boys or girls and etc, they open their lives to me, and no money in the world, can ever replace the experience that I gain with them for three weeks. Every morning for three weeks, they listened and grasped new ideas and grammar structure I was teaching them, we traveled to various location exploring historical landmark of New York City. As time slowly and gradually past, we learnt not just about facts and figures, but we learn about each other. We learned we were a family, not biological connected, but momentarily connected, as we shared laughter, tears and great times. There are a few defying moments that will always linger in my mind, The classes discussions, the trips, the talent show, and lastly, when we said our good-byes, On the last day when we gathered around the table eating breakfast. They entire table told me, that I was a hard person to come by, and they were really going to miss me, that moment touch me, which also put a closure to that part of my life, because never in my life, did I feel so much love and acceptance, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for helping me see that, and putting a closure to my life. Lastly when we were saying our goodbyes, as everyone gathering around the bus exchanging laughter and tears, Paloma Rodriguez, handed me her most prized procession, her Spanish Flag. That moment, words could not express how I felt about them, each and everyone of them. I remember one of my co -workers saying, "I'll you need is a moment" That moment will always be in my mind, as I continue on my path of growth, and self fulfillment . I want to thank you all. Jorge, The Spain Group, as well as the Brazilian Group, for sharing your experiences with me. All of you are in my heart forever. One Love
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