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FAREWELL, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN: OUR LAST DAY IN THE COMMUNITIES
Saying goodbye is never easy, especially to the families who welcomed us with open arms, warmth, and kindness. Our time in the communities was filled with unforgettable moments, sharing meals, learning from one another, and becoming part of a family away from home. As we packed our bags and prepared for departure, emotions ran high. The bonds we formed, the laughter we shared, and the lessons we learned will stay with us forever. Though we may be leaving, a part of our hearts will always remain with the people who made this journey so special.
Farewells are never easy, especially when you know that the odds of returning aren’t particularly high. The Cerro Punta and Guadalupe communities are far from home, and I know that this could easily be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hugs and tears were shared and the realization that our time here was coming to an end finally set in. In a community so tight knit, this departure brought what felt like the whole town together to dance, eat, and celebrate. This was anything but a “service trip.” We were the ones being served on a daily basis. We were given homes away from home and accepted into a foreign community with nothing but open arms and curiosity.
The families and children we had spent the past five days with were a gift in our lives. They taught me the meaning of faith and grace that the world deserves more of. There was genuine joy in every interaction I had with both kids and adults. Strangers said hello to one another without a moment of hesitation, further depicting the solidarity that the small town valued.
It was quiet on our way to Santiago, and although I cannot speak for everyone, I personally felt both emptiness and gratitude. Empty because of the goodbyes, but beyond thankful for everyone I met and grew with--with or without the language barrier-- and look forward to sharing my experiences in the coming days.
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Regis Jesuit High School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs.