The preparation for my trip to Cambodia has been very eye opening. While researching the history, watching documentaries, and looking at pictures, I have realized so many things about myself, and the lifestyle that I live. After watching the documentary “Living on One Dollar” I have been much more conscious of my lifestyle: the food I eat, the clothes I wear, my home, my car, my family. All items of which I depend on every day, but never really take the time to appreciate. I have also become much more aware of every-day wastefulness. This reflection is very difficult, because you truly do not know how much food, water, electricity, etc. that you waste on a daily basis, and how much these resources would mean to a person in a third world country.
I have many fears that are starting to appear as my trip is approaching. Much like before any long trip, I’m nervous of getting homesick. I’m nervous about being away from my family and friends for so long, and the lack of communication we will have. Although this may be hard for me at times, I think it will allow for me to grow as a person, learn about myself, and gain independence. Another fear that I have is being in such a different culture with a language barrier. I worry about this, because I am scared that a language barrier between the children and me will affect our relationships; however, I have been studying the language and culture, and plan to continue studying much more before I arrive.
A few of my friends have been on service trips to Cambodia in previous years and they all have told me to go into the trip with “no expectations”. With this in mind, the only goals that I have set for myself are having a positive and accepting attitude towards everything and working as hard as I can. I think that these goals will really help me to get the most from my experience and will push me both mentally and physically.
No comments:
Post a Comment