So as part of this JVC journey, JVC requires each JV to set a goal and fundraise before their departure. So with the advice of JVC to share our stories, that's exactly what I did. After fundraising at my local parishes' masses this past weekend with a 5 minute speech to the parishioners after communion, I gave my speech one last time at the Spanish mass. Kudos to my dad for telling me to end it with "Que Viva Cristo Rey" As I stood up that one last time, still nervous even though it was the fifth time up on that podium, when I reached the end, I looked up from my paper and I said it,
"y finalmente, que viva Cristo Rey" "and finally, long live Christ the king"
The overwhelming "que viva" that was heard in that moment was the perfect way to end my weekend and my fundraising efforts.
"mi corazon esta contento"
"my heart is happy"
Having people of all ages thank me for inspiring them is something I wouldn't trade for the world.
I am incredibly grateful to all those who have donated to my SMTS fund making my new adventure possible. But more than anything, thank you for reminding me why I am doing this. Leaving behind the comforts of the US in just about two months, I will be making a sacrifice but its a mindful choice to live simply and for the people that I serve. There's something about understanding what sacrifice is that drives me and hearing the conviction in that "que viva" of the spanish congregation was quite the fuel to my passion.
So here's to living in the magic of the present moment as my recent readings of Thich Nhat Hanh have brought me to see and remembering that "A
donde el corazon se Inclina, el pie camina"
where the heart inclines you, your feet will take you.
THANK YOU
for sending me to serve.
P.S. Here's a picture of me and my Tacna buddy taken at the Big O, Emily and I will be in Tacna together living and working for the next two years as JVs. :)
Her worksite/school is named Colegio Cristo Rey and I will work part-time at el Centro Cristo Rey del Niño Adolescente.
P.S. Here's a picture of me and my Tacna buddy taken at the Big O, Emily and I will be in Tacna together living and working for the next two years as JVs. :)
Her worksite/school is named Colegio Cristo Rey and I will work part-time at el Centro Cristo Rey del Niño Adolescente.
