Returning back to the U.S. after the trip to Nicaragua was one of the strangest experiences I have had. I knew being with the children would effect me. I knew it was possible that it would change me. However, I had no idea how deeply. I went to the orphanage because we wanted to give what we could to the children. We wanted to improve their lives, and give them the possibility for a brighter future. What I did not expect was how much the children gave me. The children who live here are amazing. They are so full of life, so bright, so intelligent, so inspiring. To be around them gave me a completely different outlook on my life. We don't need so much to be happy. Having people who care about you, laughing, playing, learning are the things that bring the most happiness in life. It is difficult to keep this in perspective while living in a world that revolves around material things. Since returning to Kansas City after my time in Nicaragua, I have been trying to remember those things on a daily basis. I keep some of the artwork the children made me on my desk and in my house as a reminder of my experience. I think about the children on a daily basis. It has kept me motivated to continue to do my job for HALO. I continue to try to find new ways to raise awareness and funds for the children there and at the other orphanages HALO helps to support. I wish I could share my experience with everyone I meet. It's difficult to explain, but I hope sharing my stories, pictures, and experiences about my time in Nicaragua will encourage others to view their own lives a little differently.
-Lacy
