Figuring it Out by Ryan Romo

It’s hard to believe today is the last day being here in the Dominican Republic. This trip has made life lasting memories. I have never been a part of such a great program that has done such much good. I don’t want to go back home just yet, I feel like there is so much more we can do. Even though the trip was short, it was fulfilling. I’m glad I was able to spend the last few days with great people. This trip was nothing short of amazing. My favorite part was seeing all the children’s smiling faces after they received a little piece of comfort. The smallest things made them smile, for example a baseball and/or bottle of Gatorade. On this trip, I have understood what exactly the power of giving is. The power of giving is making someone else’s life just a little better and providing fulfillment to the person who gives it. This trip was fulfilling, there is no need for any kind of thanks from the people, the smile on the people we touched was all I need. From giving, I also received a lot, I learned to think a new way. Back home, I am going to approach others who aren’t as fortunate as me differently, I’m going to give them the time of day they deserve but sadly aren’t given. This trip will never be forgotten, I’ll remember it when I get old. The bonding experience with the rest of the crew was a journey. So many funny things happened down here that anyone who wasn’t there just won’t understand such as when a student from the school named Emilio came behind Allison and spooked her with the words “Who are me?”. It may might make no sense but my goodness, it will be an ever-funny inside joke. Other small moments like Irene’s pep talks, dancing with kids, and being due to my obvious cuteness and skin color, I became a local celebrity with teen school girls. These small moments made this trip just that more memorable. Thanks to all the people that sponsored this trip, without everyone’s generosity the power of giving wouldn’t be shared with the people who truly need it. So many great memories were made from this trip, and I truly cannot thank the people who sent us here enough.