Inspiration eZine

Shine: When asked what inspired me, I had to think hard to find an answer. Truth is, there are so many things and people that have been absolutely incredible, it’s tricky to pick just one thing to focus upon. Don’t worry, though, I’ll have a go!

Last year, I went to Kenya and India on volunteering experiences. The weeks I stayed there were emotionally demanding and challenging in every single way it was possible to be. When I arrived, I was a nervous wreck, barely speaking to everybody. Travelling as I did was a task in itself because, at the start, my group were complete strangers to me and, generally, a lot older and far more qualified for the teaching that we were supposed to be engaging in. However, when we knuckled down to it, we were so very glad of each other. I remember the first day in Kenya like it was yesterday. I don’t think there was a single person who didn’t shed a tear at the warm and beautiful welcome we received and the wonderful spirit of the people there. Everybody shared their days and how they felt and I think that was a very helpful tool to have as it meant we could ground and express ourselves and I know it was a vital part of my time in Kenya. It definitely helped me cope and I don't think I'm the only one.

During our stay, I overcame various hurdles and eventually, ventured into a school alone and I met some brilliant people there. They ensured that I always felt valued and respected and went above and beyond to allow me to be happy.

By the end of the week, I felt so comfortable and secure in that environment, I taught a class of 112 about Snow White and description and in India, about food production/distribution. It was lesson and a half because of the lack of English and disorganisation (there are not the same rules about adhering to specific times over there!) but we worked through it. The children were so enthusiastic and dedicated. One child, at the end of my lesson, ran all the way home to get me a piece of fabric as a present. It was given to me in our farewell ceremony and means so much to me. The people were so kind and I think that they showed me a lot. I now feel more able to be tolerant of someone who doesn’t quite think the same way as me and I can bring the caring and energetic aspects of my stays in Kenya and India into many parts of my life. I realised that it is so important to make other people smile and I have maintained that ever since.

If I could hop on a plane and go to both those places or somewhere equally fantastic, again, I would, without a blink of an eye. I’d advocate trips like this profusely and, to me, they were the places I really felt at home. I didn’t feel as though I was an outsider, I was included and I finally was able to be myself and,