Brazil Reflections

Speaking as someone who feels fulfilled by physically serving others' needs, this experience taught me about the importance of building relationships--that it's better to interact and connect before jumping right into work. I met so many wonderful people and formed so many friendships, and I'm more grateful than words can express that I was encouraged to focus on these people instead of becoming consumed by "getting the job done."

I was surprised that the language barrier seemed so small compared to what I was expecting. I thought it would be near impossible to communicate, but with the little English that they knew, the little Portuguese that Cheryl had taught us, often creative actions (especially on Ingrid's part), and lots of smiles, somehow we were able to put together a language we all understood.

Ella Broadbooks