“A person needs at intervals to separate from family and companions
and go to new places. One must go without
familiars in order to be open to influences, to change.”
and go to new places. One must go without
familiars in order to be open to influences, to change.”
- Katharine Butler Hathaway
I have always been drawn to South America. The combination of the language, culture, geography, and the people, has deeply influenced my desire to travel there. I was thrilled when I found out I had the opportunity partake in a student exchange program in Ecuador. On January 2 I leave for Quito.
I feel like this experience will help me grow as a person; it will force my out of my comfort zone and push me to be more independent, trusting, and adaptable. It will give me a better understanding of different ways of life and how to deal with diversity.
While in Ecuador, I will be completing a four month semester of studies at the university. Since classes are taught in the evening, I will be partaking in a volunteer program to help build houses for the poor or work in an orphanage during the morning. At the end of the four months I will be doing 3 weeks of volunteer work in the Galapagos.
I am getting more and more nervous about missing my family and friends, but at the same time, I cannot wait to be immersed in a completely new culture.
I am so pround of you Kelsey. I will miss you but am very happy that you are following your dreams.
ReplyDeleteIf you are proud of yourself then try and imagine how proud your father is. I am so proud that you are chasing your dream with such vigor and enthusiasm. I am so proud of the way you have worked so hard to fulfill this step in your dreams. I am so proud that you are giving of yourself as you step up and volunteer to take on tasks that will enrich the lives others. I am so proud that you are stepping out of your comfort zone and are willing to give of yourself to grow with others you will cross paths with. As the days pass by, your absence in our lives will be felt with some heartache but I will feel great pride knowing that you are out there chasing your dreams and desires. Just remember that no matter how far your dreams take you, you are loved and missed here at home. Whatever I can do to help you in your quest know that I will do my best. Fly free sweetheart and never allow your wings to be clipped. I love you with all my heart. Always, DAD
ReplyDeleteHey Kelsey! You never cease to amaze me! Your blog looks fabulous! Not only are you a talented photographer, you are a captivating writer. I look forward to posted photos and reading your updates so we can share a small bit in your big adventures. I know you will succeed in whatever you do. Just be safe and have fun! Remember whereever you go, whatever you do, you are loved and missed always.
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