Leave a Comment
June 12, 2019 - 2019: Asha Ki Chamak
When I was 13, my sister Brooke went on an expedition with YMAD. The night she got home from her trip, I made a countdown for how many days until I could apply to go on an expedition as well. Needless to say it was quite a while. I eagerly waited for 4 years JUST to apply. I saw some cousins, friends, and my other older sister Maddie as they went & I just got more and more excited but impatient for my turn. It has all come full circle for me as I am now trying to summarize what this experience so far has been like in a short paragraph. I am trying my best to express everything that I have been feeling but it’s hard to when you’re running on like 5 hours of sleep and some pineapple juice (thanks Raj :’)!!) But truly, I can’t even explain how connected I feel to the kids in our school, even though I met them this morning. They are so bright and so willing to learn. I am so astounded by and in awe of these children and the copious amount of love they automatically showed us. They treat us as if they have known us their entire lives. I would enthusiastically go through the two sleepless plane rides, an 18 hour bus drive, and a really hot 10-15 minute hike if that meant I could hear their little giggles and see their excited eyes when they know an answer. I will never forget this life changing experience & through YMAD my vision has been shifted to see that there are SO many things that I can be grateful for. Starting with: 1. Raj. 2. Raj. 3. Raj. In summary, Raj is a wizard and coca cola is good and I think my heart exploded because small 6 year old Indian children are so cute when they try to say “family” because it comes out as “pamily”. I am happy. And also I get to see my kids tomorrow and as much as I think I’m prepared to teach them, they have already taught me 10 x more than I could have every prepared for.
Love you mom. Hehe ok bye.
PS. Thanks to Paige Case for trusting me with this huge adventure, I’m so insanely happy that when I told her about YMAD she impulsively decided to apply, cause this expedition wouldn’t be the same without her. I love you hehe.
Gabby, I love this! I love hearing of your experiences and I can tell how much this is already changing you and filling your heart. We love and miss you! Keep enjoying those littles!
Love, Mom
Sweet Gabby, we are so proud of you and your choice to serve the little ones in this school. I can image that you are learning so many life lessons from them as you teach them. We love you and look forward to hearing all about this wonderful experience when you get home. Love, Eve
I have wonderful feelings for India and the people who live there. What a blessing it is for you to be able to loose yourself in service to these precious children of God. It so helps oneself to see how every soul on earth are loved by Heavenly Father. Thank you for giving of your time, energy and heart to this very special privilege. Love you so much and took to hearing your stories that will stay with you forever. Love, Grandpa