Last Thursday my summer journey suddenly became a reality for me. I was sitting in my International Service Team's class reflecting on the semester, when I realized it was my last class! My instructor was asking for last minute questions when I thought to myself, "I will be in Kenya in just a little over two weeks; am I ready for this? I feel like I should know more." Even after a semester of preparing, I know I will not be mentally or emotionally prepared for the exciting rollercoaster ride this summer will bring.
I know I can only gain so much through stories and research; I am ready to experience service abroad and the Kenyan culture for myself!

"The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others." Mahatma Gandhi
 
My personal goal for the summer is to become a better active listener. I want to work with children and staff at the CYEC (Children and Youth Empowerment Centre) and serve them the way they wish.  A major part of my team's and I's mission for this summer is to selflessly serve their needs, not our desires. I pray we stay focused on our overall goal and not get caught up in technical day-to-day issues. I believe we all have the knowledge and strength within ourselves to overcome adverse situations.

While we have been reading, listening, and talking about this adventure for months, now is the time to put all of our acquired knowledge and skills to use. We are diving into our summer service with open minds and hearts; we can only hope that the children and staff will be as gracious and open as all of the past visitors have stated.