If I were to sum it up my trip in a just few words it’d be joyful, sad, blessed, and a learning experience, but I’ll give you more than that. There was so much happiness on this trip and that was exemplified so much through the kids that I got to serve. The joy of the lord was also extremely present in worship especially during the second week as the kids were dancing and clapping along to a worship video. Their smiles were contagious and they were so happy to be there despite their situations or backgrounds. Yet it was that fact that made this trip just as heartbreaking. I was able to draw flowers on many of the girls arms and the amount of self harm scars really broke me and I just wished that I could do more than drawing on their arms for a little bit. Also the fact that the kids were so comfortable being physical with each other, I can only imagine how often it’s happening at the orphanage for the kids so no longer react to it. This whole experience has shown me exactly how blessed I am in everything I have and even how blessed I am in Christ. I am genuinely so surprised that I was able to keep a positive attitude pretty much the entire trip, that I didn’t get annoyed or frustrated with anyone, and that I was able to have energy to get up everyday to be with the kids and the team. I definitely learned a lot through this trip like that I can do a lot more if I change my mindset, being uncomfortable and how to deal with that, and the power of praying / constantly seeking His kingdom.
I’m impressed with your openness with us. Looks likely that you may have gotten more out of this trip than the ones you came to serve. I hope your team can share with the youth group and that your example will be contagious.