AFRICA
What defines a person? Is it their looks, personality, actions, experiences, or beliefs? In my opinion, there is no right or wrong answer. Yet, it is all these things that make up someone. With this, I ask myself the same question. Who am I? It sounds so philosophical and deep, but simply, I am me. My name is Jessica Lee and I am 18 years old. In my 18 years of experiences, one has truly made a lasting imprint on my life.
This life-changing incident occurred when I took a trip to Kenya, Africa as part of a mission group from my church. As I traveled there to help those in need, the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of me were put to the test. For two weeks, I lived just as a native of the country would. In the beginning, the transition and adjustment to the culture was strenuous and rough. As I arrived to each separate town or village, I had to live as one living there would. Going to the bathroom was a task that proved most difficult, since the toilet was a hole in the ground, barely covered by a beaten up wooden fence. While enduring the hot and humid weather and barely showering, how I looked didn’t matter at all. All that mattered was that I could help those in need. As we gave away toys, supplies, and books, you could honestly feel how appreciative all the kids were. Also, they very easily grew attached to us. In my case, they loved to hear my stories about the United States and especially loved to play with my long hair. Though barely having anything, these kids were always so bubbly and energetic. To remain so positive and full of life in such grim circumstances showed true character and strength.
As I arrived back home, I forgot how good I had it. Appreciating what used to have such little meaning in my life, I looked differently at how I lived. Just having a home without mosquitoes and vermin was something to be thankful for. A toilet, an air conditioner, a shower, and my own room with all the excessive things I owned were a blessing to have. Living in a 360 degree change back in Africa, my life in the U.S. made me realize that there are bigger problems out there. I understood that you should live life to the fullest and have an optimistic attitude, just as the kids did. Without doubt, this is one event that shaped who I am today.