The Night Before

It has just begun!

Running around to make sure I have everything I need. Thanking all those who have helped me. Packing everything into one bag. Thinking of all those who donated and bought cookies to support the trip. Making sure everything is ready for the trip.

I can't believe this is happening! I am so excited and yet nervous at the same time. I feel as though my stomach has leaped into my throat. I can feel my heart beat faster and faster every time my mind comes across the idea of leaving tomorrow. The excitement of a new adventure overwhelms me. The fear of a new adventure persuades me. I am ready! I AM READY! I don't know how things will go but I am ready! I don't know what to really expect but I am ready! This is where my heart is! To be with the people of this world. To share the love of God. To encourage young people. To help others in need. To be a light to this world that God has called me to be.

My folks are sad and nervous to see me leave for 5 weeks. Oh did I not mention that?! Yes that's right…5 whole weeks away from home in a foreign country without my family! Crazy, I know!

When I think about it I say to myself, "I'm just going to be gone for 5 weeks." in a calm and nonchalant  tone, and then I look myself in the mirror and tell myself, "I'm going to be gone for 5 weeks!" in a more frightened and crazed tone.

But you see when I think of what I will be doing I know it will be worth it and my mind is at ease.

To travel with a non-profit organization called VISEDAL-vísteme (clothe me), edúcame (educate me), aliméntame (feed me) is an exciting and amazing opportunity! VISEDAL helps young people in Nicaragua. You see, Nicaragua is the poorest Spanish speaking country in the world. These young people drop out of school to beg on the streets to help support their families. VISEDAL takes these young people off of the streets and feeds them, clothes them, and gives them the opportunity of an education. It is all about bettering the future of these young people.

I am all about the future of young people and giving them a better future. I do not plan to go down to change the country and change every child's life. But, if I could affect the life of one young person, my mission will be complete!

So…...let's go!