One year ago I was preparing for this very trip, yet I wasn't nervous, because it hadn't become real to me yet. I think it hit me something like 13 hours before I left home. Now, as I'm nearly done with my packing, I'm again getting to that point where it all gets real and settles in. But some things are different this year.
Last year, I had no idea what to expect. No matter how much I read about the trip or about the country, I wasn't able to fathom just what the experience really turned out to be. Now I've been once and I'm rearing to go again, to relive all of last year's moments and to create new ones. Another difference: a year ago, I knew only two people going on the trip, and the three of us were the youngest ones. I'm not a part of ACC or Sterling First Church, but my friends Brittany and Cole told me about the mission and I jumped at the opportunity. However, I formed close bonds with many of the people in our group, and although there are many new people I don't know going with us this year, I look forward to meeting them, as well as reuniting with everyone from last year, who I think of as my Dominican family.
Katy, I think your experience sounds wonderful and not uncommon. Going with some anxiety or qualms, becoming part of a wonderful group of people (my husband, Bob, and I are part of the large group as well), feeling that you have a Dominican Family, and now ready to go back for more. Isn't it a wonderful thing that has been given to us? Go with God and have a wonderful time as well as doing good work. Anne Wright (Shantia's sister)
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