A Summer of Questions

All Summer I have been mentally and emotionally preparing for the trip that always seemed too far away to grasp.  But now that I am starting to pack and gather all things necessary to live a year in Lesotho, it suddenly feels real.  I find myself thinking back to the conversations I had throughout the summer informing friends, family, and even strangers regarding my plans for the next year after graduation.  After I tell them what I’m doing I get some “oooos” and “awes”, some looks that say "you’re crazy”, but mostly what ends up happening is people chime in wanting to have a full discussion about the nature of reaching out on a global level. 

The most memorable conversation I remember is one at a bar where a friend said frankly, “Meg, what I think you’re doing is great.  But, what’s even the point? Isn't it a lost cause?”  I was struck and horrified by what he said, but even more so, that I could not think of a quick enough response.  After 4 years of a Rice University education the best I could come up with was, “uhhh because it’s the right thing to do!” 

My answer now: Hope for a better future, Faith in humanity, and Love for fellow man.  Now I know, this seems almost way too corny to put into words (I can picture my brothers rolling their eyes as I type this), but think about it.  To turn your back on those less fortunate and who don’t have the education to understand what this virus is proves of the lack of global awareness some people have in the United States.  I’m the first to admit I may not save one person in my year internship, but my effort says I’m here to help.  If everyone gave a little time and love to a cause like this, well, all I can say is the world would be a better place. 

Just being aware is the first step to helping.  Do your part and check us out:

http://www.grassrootsoccer.org/   and    http://kick4life.org/

TTFN:
Peace, Love, and How do you pack for a year???