One thing I have learned throughout my life: enjoy every moment, no matter what. I have been provided many opportunities in my life, but it was what I made of these opportunities and experiences that ultimately shaped me as a person. One experience I loved was when I went on a missions trip to Guatemala City.
I signed up to go on a missions trip at my church last March because of my mother’s encouragement, But I wasn’t sure if that was something I really wanted to do. I love to help people, and I guess it was that in the end that helped me truly convince myself it was the right decision. I went with four other girls and six guys, all about my age give or take 3 years. I was apprehensive, and barely excited weeks before the trip. But the week that soon followed my arrival was amazing, and The trip was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. the people I met were so genuine and caring, and the energy everyone had was unstoppable. I met children who had nothing, who lived in dumps…children who had single parents, who were orphans, who were poor. But something that stuck out was how happy they were. They were more happy then most people I have met throughout my life, even though they were deprived of the simplest things that we take for granted. Nothing could replace this experience, and I am so happy I had the opportunity to do this. This opportunity not only defines me as a person, but also defines some of my beliefs. I believe that I am here to help others, and they are here to help me as well. I believe that the more I learn about other people I can understand their life, and how their experiences have shaped them.
Another experience: College. This is one that started just weeks ago and will continue on for another four years. I expected college to be a lot of work, and I was surprised at how easy it was when I stayed focused. I am still attempting to find a balance between school and fun…And in some aspects it has proven itself to be difficult. I just hope that I will finish the semester with all my work done, and hopefully from now on I can continue a stress-free semester.