As an ex retail employee I can reflect on many situations that I walked away frustrated saying "This is America they should just know English!" Well now the shoe is on the other foot; although I am not new to the Spanish language, I'm not fluent either so there is a challenge. Although I did look forward to taking our scheduled Spanish classes while here,upon my arrival my attitude was selfish, I just hoped to find someone who could understand English and meet my needs.I have yet to have somone treat me rudely but I never thought how difficult it must be for people to try and communicate with me to even figure out what i wanted/needed. When in reality because I am in their homes, schools and places of business and country; I should have instantly been willing to adapt to thier way of living. Interacting with families and those in the community has given me a new sense of empathy. Empathy for both sides in situations where there is a language barrier but especially within the classroom. My Spanish is improving daily but my experience s here make me feel better equipped for the diversity and challenges found in todays classroom.
I have also been inspired by the Director of 3 Mariposas to hold onto my dream of opening my own nonprofit organization someday. Her story and the lives shes touched through the school reminded me that you don't need an army to start making a difference, if you stay focused and driven, support will come. Listening to her describe the stuggles and high points within her journey to get where she is jnow touched me. Her vision for the school still seems to be much larger than where they are now and I'm glad my peers and I can play a part in helping them get there! Seeing her face light up at the sight of all the donations made me recognize just how great of an impact we can make while here.
~A reinspired adventurer
I have also been inspired by the Director of 3 Mariposas to hold onto my dream of opening my own nonprofit organization someday. Her story and the lives shes touched through the school reminded me that you don't need an army to start making a difference, if you stay focused and driven, support will come. Listening to her describe the stuggles and high points within her journey to get where she is jnow touched me. Her vision for the school still seems to be much larger than where they are now and I'm glad my peers and I can play a part in helping them get there! Seeing her face light up at the sight of all the donations made me recognize just how great of an impact we can make while here.
~A reinspired adventurer