The first time I went to Tijuana, Mexico was on a pilgramage in 2009, and it is a trip I will never forget. I was going down with my youthgroup to build houses as well as run a VBS at a church all week; I knew it would be a different experience, but I was suprised when even thee first 10 seconds after I crossed the border became memories I will never forget. The culture shock was, well, as shocking as ever, and I enjoyed every moment of it. We stayed in a compound called "Concordia," and it was in walking distance to two little markets that we would walk to everyday. We got the liberty to build two houses for two families, as well as spend half of our day with about 60 kids; playing soccer, doing crafts, and feeding them lunch at "Principe De Paz," (the church we were doing all this for). It was interesting to see how well the kids acted during the church services they had; they were very attentive and followed allong very well in their bibles; something that isn't seen very often in our culture. On top of being focused listeners, the kids were very well mannered. When we would serve them lunch, all the young boys let the girls eat before them, It was amazing to see the difference between children in two cultures so close to eachother. You will never find anyone more faithful and thankful than you will in Mexico. The families we were working with were so blessed to have as little as they did, never once did you hear a complaint; and with every house we finished building, you cuold see the joy, happiness, and thankfullness mixed in with tears and smiles. It's in moments like this where you see your life in a whole, new perspective; even though the society we live in says we need "the best" products, and to always be buying whatever we can, you learn that simplicity is almost greater. Living in a whole different lifestyle is almost more relaxing than the one I have lived for 17 years; I didn't have to worry about keeping up with everyone, staying connected to technology, or being at everyones request. I saw life in a new perspective, and it will always leave an imprint on me; I have not been on that "Pilgrimage to Mexico" three times, and plan on going my fourth time this spring.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
