It’s the end of day three of our Immokalee mission trip and
I can honestly say that having the opportunity to bond with our fellow
Immokalee-goers has been the most amazing aspect. Prior to our flight to
Florida, we were required to meet as a group several times to learn about the
CIW and the general purpose of the Immokalee mission. As can be expected
though, we were nervous about being around one another and the room was filled
with many awkward silences. But within a
matter of 72 hours, we really have all blossomed into what I would
consider---good friends. The power of traveling together, experiencing
Immokalee’s impoverished state, and learning about the devastating flight of
the migrant farm workers has brought a special magic to the air.
Tonight at dinner, we sat gathered around our amazing
chicken fajitas, homemade guacamole and delicious chocolate and vanilla pudding
(yes, I made the desert!:) Giovan, one of our campus ministry leaders, shared
this amazing story about how he and his wife first met. Kayla, our enthusiastic
and sweet mission trip goer, shared her perspective on what our spirit animals
were (check out the end of this blog to find everyone’s out!). Kate, our other
campus ministry leader shared her memorable road trip with Father Bill. As an
entirety, the atmosphere was so warm, so light-hearted, and in
general---magical.
When you think about it, when people are able to experience
opportunities such as a mission trip, emotions run a bit haywire. At times,
there are periods of extreme joy and happiness. And at others, there are
moments of sadness, regret and devastation. Despite the range of emotions---the
power of being together at all times within the day has brought us each
comfort. This comfort has gradually
molded itself---and we have entered our own little “Duquesne Bubble” whilst
amidst this mission trip journey.
This bubble, in itself, has not only helped us to form good
friendships—but it has created such an eye-opening learning opportunity. Today,
our group was split into three areas. Group one went to work with Habitat for
Humanity. Group two went to do maintenance with the Immokalee Housing and
Family Services. And group three, my section, went to serve food at the
Guadalupe Social Services soup kitchen.
I can’t speak on behalf of the other groups, but I can
honestly say that at the Guadalupe Social Services, we were completely in awe.
First of all, we had the fantastic chance to meet several sweet, older
gentlemen who volunteer at the soup kitchen the first Tuesday of every month.
They were welcoming, kind, considerate---and so pleased to share the morning
with us. We also volunteered with some
students from Gannon University and John Carol—who again, were so sweet. While
we were setting up the dining area, interacting and being able to hear the
life-stories of our fellow volunteer friends was an experience in itself. Having the opportunity to work hand in hand
with people who come from all walks of life is a surreal experience.
Following the soup kitchen, we ultimately all ended up
meeting at one of the Immokalee Housing and Family Development center. Here, we
went into a single family house and helped do general maintenance, from
painting walls, to raking countless leaves, to hanging doorknobs. While the
work may seem rather basic, I have to say that this again, was a true bonding
experience for all of us. Even with the 80 degree heat and rather “hangry”
(hungry + angry) humans---we clicked. We giggled, we helped one another and we
embraced each other’s company. I also immensely enjoyed talking with Zuzki, one
of the two maintenance hero’s for Immokalee housing, talk about why he loves
his job and about what his future may hold.
It’s so easy to get swept up in the day-to-day life---and
forget to embrace the simple moments. But helping Tony (our “25” year old
gentleman) place desserts on trays and helping re-fill the soup bowls of
Guadalupe’s diners brought a sense of both laughter and peace to our souls. And
this is what this mission trip is really all about. It’s a chance to reach out
to those who we wouldn’t have the opportunity to meet in the hustle and bustle
of everyday life—and learn. From hearing stories about one’s grandchildren, to
stories about how someone reach his or her impoverished state; it’s a matter of
listening, accepting, and growing from the experience.
So, with the night coming to an end, I can honestly say that
I am so thankful for this experience. Our journey has only just begun---but the
memories and the close friendships that we will share at the end of this trip
is something we will never forget. Plus, dinners (thanks to Kate and Laura)
have been absolutely awesome. Sleeping on the floor is a bit rough---but as I
write, Molly and Kelsey are laughing away at today’s adventures, bringing some
fun to the air. Plus, we’ve met some really adorable kids so far. Today, I met
PJ—who was a fun 3 year-old boy who loved spider man, could do some great
pushups, and had this really cool scooter.
At the end of the day---only 72 hours in, I can’t wait to
see what the next few days hold. As a soon-to-be college graduate, and spring
breaker, this is a true once and a lifetime experience.
Thanks to our fantastic Duquesne group for making this trip
so fabulous and eye-opening thus far!
Julia
PS: From Kayla, our
spirit animals:
Kelsey, Turtle
Molly, Goldfish
Kate, Monkey
Lani, Bambi (Baby
Deer)
Trip, Lizard
Julia, Cat
Emily, Parakeet
Elle, Parrot
Kayla, Meercat
Giovan, Bear
Leah, Wolf
Ashley, Seal
Laura, Lion
Aubrey, Caterpillar
(soon to be a butterfly)
No comments:
Post a Comment