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Ben's Service - St. Louis University High School |
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What motivated you to work with people in a foreign mission country?
I am fortunate to attend St. Louis University High School where there are many service opportunities. When I was a sophomore, I signed up for the Mission Mexico spring break service trip to build homes for the homeless in Reynosa, Mexico. As soon as I stepped foot in the community of squatter homes emerging in the area landfill that is called The Colonia, I was hooked on helping those that are living in extreme poverty. After that experience I tried to take advantage of the opportunities for service that SLUH provided such as spending my month long senior project working in a nutrition center in Honduras. The great feeling I get from helping those in such dire circumstances is what motivates me to continue working to help others.
What was your best and most meaningful experience while volunteering in a foreign mission country?
There are so many experiences that are meaningful so it is difficult to choose one but I would say spending a month at the nutrition center in Honduras was one of the most meaningful. This was meaningful because I was able to form a bond with the children at the center because we spent everyday of the month working with them. I became friends with each of the children and found it very hard to leave them. I often daydream and think about them and wonder how they are doing now. Because I was able to spend so much time with them I feel like I was able to make their days at the center better.
What impact has volunteering abroad had on the way you live your everyday life?
Volunteering abroad has given me a new perspective on life. I now realize that although the people I have helped live in extreme poverty, they are just like my family. They are just as happy as me and my family despite their lack of material things. I try to not take my life for granted and appreciate everyday things like running water and electricity. Most importantly, I do not focus on the material things to define me or my happiness for I know that giving is what really makes me happy.
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Archdiocese of St. Louis: Mission Office
20 Archbishop May Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63119 • missions@archstl.org
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