Goodbye

Before leaving for this trip, I knew how difficult it is to say goodbye to people you love so dearly, but I never imagined it to be like this. The last day at the orphanage was an incredibly emotional and heart wrenching day, but it was also a day of celebration and gratitude.

We celebrated our friendships, love, and trust through a party! The party consisted of many balloons, bubbles, and gifts, thus bringing out the most precious laughs in each child. The kids performed their dances for us and they were also fed an amazing meal.

However, as the day drew to an end, the hugs grew a little tighter and the laughs slowly turned into tears. The trust and relationships built and earned over these past weeks made it so challenging to say goodbye. The tears of gratefulness and love trickled down our cheeks, but there were also tears of worry and disbelief because we may never return.

As our tuk tuk slowly drove away from the orphanage, the kids sprinted after us. They grabbed our hands and ran with us; it was so hard to have to finally let go of their small, delicate hands.

I have been so blessed to take part in this trip. I have learned so much about perception and appreciation. We have accomplished so much, including building the girls’ house, helping at the school, and impacting and enhancing the lives of the orphans. I have also been shown how easy it is to love when you do not judge, but rather trust. My team has been incredible and strong. Ms. Lisa Marie has been so extraordinary and patient; I am extremely grateful for everything she has done. This trip has changed my life and I will be affected by the kids forever.