If I had one word to describe my trip to the Domican Republic with the What Color Is Hope team, the word would be 'unexpected.'.
After seeing pictures and videos, and hearing stories from previous trips, I thought I was prepared. I researched, packed, and prayed as the trip approached, but I couldn't prepare for the love that I would feel for so many people that I hadn't even met yet.
First, I fell in love with my team. We were a group of 14 people- a dazzling array of ages and occupations, that worked, ate, rested, and played together. Each member so unique and necessary. I felt a sense of unity and belonging, as we worked toward a common goal. There was also a great sense of protection within the group. A constant looking out for each other's well being. The depth and strength of new friendships that were created in only 10 days was completely unexpected.
I was blindsided by the massive love I would feel for the people that we had come to serve. I thought I might fall in love with some of the tiny ones at the orphanage, but didn't realize how much the hearts of the leaders, and workers would call out to me as well. I didn't realize how deeply I would want to bring hope to each one of the boys and girls that had grown up there.
Every minute was a chance to show love; holding a small child on your hip, playing clapping games with a grade-schooler, passing bricks and gravel alongside smiling young men that didn't notice the hot sun.
This was my first time on any type of humanitarian trip and I wouldn't change a moment of it. I can't wait to go back. And bring as many people as I can. It's worth the time. It's worth the money. It's worth a piece of your heart. It's completely unexpected.
Char J
