I'd like to take a moment to process some of my feelings about this journey of getting to India. When I decided a year ago that I wanted to participate in a Global Village trip to India, I never could have imagined that I would be where I am today. It has been a long process but one that has humbled me tremendously. As most of you know, I am not normally one to ask for help...in fact, I am one of the least likely people to ask for help. Having been raised to always do things on my own... I learned not to rely on anyone but to make things happen on my own. After talking with a friend last year who said "you would be surprised at how many people would want to help you. What you are doing is noble and people want to give. Would you really rob them of that opportunity?" I tried to see things in a different light. Even with that advice, it was hard to ask you all for donations and support. This year has taught me much about the kindness of others. It has really shown me that people are not only invested in my life, but they are happy to help me and support me in my passions. Sometimes, being over 30 and childless, I envy friends and family that have had bridal showers, baby showers and the like because in those moments your friends gather together to celebrate a life event with you. Not having had any of those moments, this year has been my year to be "showered" by love and affection. Some people have given me money (often from people I never would have expected it to come from!), others have given me resources (laptops, clothes, etc) and others have given me emotional support and encouragement. Overall though, I feel the love in every bit of it. I absolutely could not have made it here on my own. To date... I fundraised almost half the total expenses and with the incredible donation from my mom, my trip is almost completely paid for! And my brother completely surprised me by giving me a laptop that I will be able to use in order to remain in contact with all of you... he gave me the gift of communication and connectedness... and for that I am seriously grateful! In addition to financial resources, I have received acknowledgement from my work and they just published a full two page article about my involvement with Habitat and my commitment to helping others... this is the second article written about my involvement (the other was in the HFH Orange County newsletter). I just can't believe that my story is touching people all over Orange County and Long Beach... and I hope that it will inspire others. With India looming just a few days away... friends have rallied to spend time with me and help decrease some of my anxiety about traveling.
In short... from the bottom of my heart, I am blessed to be blessed by all of you. This moment will be in my memory forever as the year that I allowed others to help me... and became all the better for it. I love you all. i leave for India in two days (arrive there in 4 days) and I can't wait to see how it all turns out. No matter what though, I will enjoy seeing a new country, serve a needy family and get to know new friends... oh yeah... and have the pleasure of jetlag,Delhi Belly and lots of other fun "memorable" moments:) Here's to another wild ride... stay tuned!!! :)
(oh yeah... if you would like, you can click on the link on the right hand side that says "followers"... this will update you each time I post something new).
