One of the most rewarding experiences I have encountered in my life was when I traveled with my church to Jamaica. Although it took a lot of time and dedication to prepare and raise money before the actual mission trip, the journey has made a lasting impact on me. In this poverty stricken country, I had the opportunity to travel to an orphanage and play with the children, visit the infirmary and share fellowship with the inhabitants, and volunteer my time and labor skills at the CCCD (Caribbean Christian Center for the Deaf).
Initially at the Deaf Village, it was difficult to communicate with the members, but after some long games of charades and a lot of paper and pencil, we developed our own ways of communicating. I soon discovered that we had a lot in common: we could play cards and board games together, we ate the same foods, and we knew how to laugh and have a good time. Beyond socializing with the residents, the mission team also accomplished several tasks by the end of the week: we built a wall, improved the road, painted several buildings, fixed the fences, and made homes for the cattle. It was hard work, but it was all worth it when the residents expressed their gratitude. The relationships I formed at the Jamaica Deaf Village will forever be remembered, and the memories will never be forgotten.
My personal favorite part of my visit to Jamaica was having the chance to spend time at the orphanage. This was my second time visiting an orphanage in Jamaica, so this year I was sure to come prepared. I bought several toys and balls to donate to the children, and I was ready for anything. I ended up playing a game of cricket with some of the older boys, tossed a Frisbee with the younger kids, and braided a little girl’s hair. Departing the orphanage was heartbreaking, several kids cried and begged for us to stay, but I choose instead to always remember and cherish the delicate smiles spring across all of the children’s faces while we were playing with them.
The most devastating, yet eye-opening part of the trip was the visit to the infirmary. As a teenager, it was very difficult for me to comprehend the situation. It is impossible to describe the obscene sights that I saw. From the stench of urine to the single piece of bread served for dinner, the elderly ladies had an extremely hard life, yet the thing that stumped me was the fact that the women were so positive. When we first arrived, they were all very joyful. We gathered in the center and sang songs and danced, and upon leaving, everyone was filled with sadness. From the short time I spent there, I learned that at times people forget to take a step back and realize how fortunate our health programs are in the United States.
In conclusion, this experience has allowed me to appreciate everything that I have in life, and I realize the importance of making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. Providing the Deaf Village with new renovations, learning new things from the orphaned children, and sharing special moments with the ladies at the infirmary, helped me be grateful for my life and respect the struggles of others. All in all, words cannot describe how amazing this trip was and from it I have learned to live life to the absolute fullest; make and cherish the memories and people that you may meet; and most importantly, discover who we really are.
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.
This is a topic that’s near to my heart… Take care!
Thanks for finally talking about >Family Travel Insurance <Loved it!
Family volunteering opportunities are a great way to give back with your teenager at your side.
May I simply say what a comfort to discover someone that actually knows what they’re discussing over the internet.
Wow, this list is amazing! I’ve always wanted to experience Mardi Gras beyond New Orleans. Thanks for sharing these incredible locations. Can’t wait to start planning my next adventure!
My partner and I absolutely love your blog and find most of your post’s to be precisely what I’m looking for. Would you offer guest writers to write content for yourself?
I wouldn’t mind creating a post or elaborating on a number of the subjects you write regarding here. Again, awesome weblog!
excellent post, very informative. I’m wondering wwhy the other experts oof this secto do not notice this. You should proceed your writing. I am sure, you have a huge readers’ baee already!
Hello.This post was extremely remarkable, especially because I was browsing for thoughts on this issue last couple of days.
You completed several good points there. I did a search on the matter and found mainly folks will agree with your blog.
WOW just what I was searching for. Came here by searching for
T Thomas Group offers bespoke travel planning.Luxury Travel Specialist that specializes in customized itineraries, luxury cruises, small group tours, solo travel and all aspects of LGBTQ+ travel. We ensure a seamless and luxurious travel experience, designed exclusively for you.
Thank you, I have just been searching for info approximately this subject for a while and yours is the best I have found out so far. However, what concerning the bottom line?
Are you certain in regards to the supply?
Hello! Would you mind if I share your blog with my myspace group?
There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content.
Please let me know. Thanks
Very interesting subject, thanks for posting. blog
It’s appropriate time to make some plans for the future and it is time to be happy.
Great post and straight to the point.
Interesting post. I’m glad I came across this page. I’m going to bookmark it so I can read any future posts.
An impressive share! I have just forwarded this onto a coworker who has been conducting a little research on this. And he in fact ordered me lunch because I stumbled upon it for him… lol. So let me reword this…. Thanks for the meal!! But yeah, thanks for spending some time to talk about this subject here on your website.
Hi! Im originally from Cambiaso and
I do mission trips to the village every year. I have read your article and I am so grateful for what you have done with my people. I would love to connect with you.
Wow, this article really resonated with me! Traveling in Europe with family can be such an incredible adventure, but it definitely comes with its own set of challenges. From navigating unfamiliar streets to finding activities that everyone enjoys, it’s a whirlwind of excitement and sometimes chaos. But hey, isn’t that what makes the best memories? Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips, they’re super helpful for planning our own European family escapade! ???
It’s hard to find knowledgeable people in this
particular topic, but you seem like you know what you’re talking about!
Thanks
Greetings! I’ve been following your website for a while now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give
you a shout out from Atascocita Tx! Just wanted to mention keep up the great work!
Your writing has a way of making even the mundane sound interesting. Kudos!
They are very very similar to the key facet all of us keep hidden from the world, the part of us that dares to dream impossible issues, where all our hopes and fantasies are born.
This article is impressive for me as mine east coast of usa
Howdy! This blog post couldn’t be written any better! Reading through this
article reminds me of my previous roommate! He constantly kept preaching
about this. I will send this article to him.
Fairly certain he’ll have a very good read. Many thanks for sharing!
Absolutely love this list of Mardi Gras celebrations outside New Orleans! Each destination seems to offer its own unique blend of culture, music, and vibrant festivities. While I’m tempted to explore them all, I can’t help but dream of experiencing the colorful chaos of Mardi Gras in Goa, India. Exploring India’s rich cultural tapestry during this festive season would undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure. Thanks for inspiring wanderlust with these fantastic recommendations!
Thanks verfy interesting blog!
I was able to find good info from your blog posts.
“MyFamilyTravels provides a wonderful platform for families to share their travel experiences and glean inspiration for their own adventures. The diverse array of destinations and insightful tips make it a valuable resource for planning memorable trips. Kudos to the team for fostering a community that celebrates the joys of family travel!”
Your site is great and I plan on exploring it even more in the future. It is well written, comprehensive in it’s suggestions, It was a great article, thanks for sharing!
nice
There is certainly a lot to learn about this subject.
I really like all the points you made.
Nice Blog, Thanks for sharing this informative blog. We provide a Nepal Tour Package from Musafircab.
Yes. This is exactly what you should know to have a comfortable and cost-effective trip.
bookmarked!!, I love your site!