Have you ever seen poverty firsthand? Most people in the world have seen a shadow of what poverty really is. We all live pretty narrow path lives; meaning that we only care, and thank about what is going on in our life today. You don’t hear very many U.S. citizens talking about other third world countries, and what they aspire to do for them. I see our world as selfish, and overwhelming. We are always at a constant speed, and are never satisfied with everything that we come across. Unfortunately we don’t see all the poverty all over the world, and all the helpless, innocent people who would give the world for an air conditioner in the summer, and a heater in the winter. Sooner or later I hope that everyone will have an occurrence of a life changing experience like I did.
My first trip out of the country and on a Mission Trip was the most incredible thing that I have encountered yet. I would call myself blessed and thankful of our Lord for the life changing experience. As I road on a bus through the towns of Nicaragua I kept thinking to myself, why is America so fortunate when we have a country living in poverty and helplessness? Why did God choose me to live in Texas where we have so much technology, and accessibility to millions of things? I still do not have an answer, but I do know that it is not my place to know the answer right now. God will one day show me the answers in some way.
I learned while I was exploring the country that people are very desperate for money and love. I came in contact with hundreds of people who just needed and wanted money to buy things that they needed or wanted. I also learned that a small thing such as taking their picture, and showing it to them just excited them, and brightened their smile. A balloon was also another small item that they loved. Even if it had not been blown up; just the site of such a rubbery, stretchy, colorful unknown item amazed them with such awe.
While I was there I continuously thought about the same thing, and that was the education that they received in the country? I learned with great surprise that some kids do get to go to school. They will get to graduate at a young age of fifteen or sixteen, and hopefully move on to be something spectacular. There was a university that very little kids got to attend, but it was available for those who had the opportunity to go. The subjects that are taught are very much alike to the USA. They receive History, Spanish, Reading, Math, and probably many others. It softened my heart when I knew that they could get a pretty basic and good education while growing up. Unfortunately if you lived in a village you were less likely to get an education from an educator such as a teacher, more than likely you would get a small one from your family, and close friends. That education would consist of taking care of the daily needs, and essentials to live.
As far as traveling with the groups there were no major problems that I came across. I enjoyed every second of it, and learned a handful of great things. When I came back to the States I felt like a totally different person. I believe that I have changed within as a U.S. citizen. My faith in Jesus Christ has become stronger, as my relationship has too. I have decided to come more involved with a church, and get on steady grounds. I want to make a life difference in somebody. I am gracious for my family, and friends that supported me, and kept me in their prayers. Next year I plan to go back with a stronger relationship with God, and a better Spanish Vocabulary.
Sincerely,
Brittany Rogers
Posted on
Tue, August 30, 2011
by rogers