Shining Hope + AYP Community Center Completion

Acacia: The last day at the worksite began with an invigorating practice with Irene and Khadijah. At the end Irene shared her inspiring story with us which displayed a lot of courage. I felt very inspired by her willingness to be open with the group. After class we enjoyed our breakfast on the terrance. Breakfast was prepared by Cosmos our fantastic chef and host. It was very satisfying as always.

Next we headed off to the worksite to complete our task. As we approached I was filled with a feeling of accomplishment. The progress was almost unbelievable, a shell of a building had taken shape. In the morning we continued to mix and cement the walls. There wasn't as much work to do but the work that did need to be done was completed efficiently because we work so well as a team. Lunch at Shining Hope For Communities was prepared with love by the women from the women's group and then w headed back to the site. At the site we hauled soil to complete the project.

Once the hauling was completed the entire group engaged in a celebration on the top floor of the building we had built. One by one we talked about our experiences and what we would take away from this trip. A sense of unity, love and transformation were the general themes but I think Gord said it best..... "No matter how much mud I pack or how much cement I mix, I feel like I can never give back as much as I am getting from this life changing experience." Kennedy gave an inspirational speech and then the gifts for the Fundis were dispersed. The smiles on their faces were priceless. To close out or celebration there was an acrobatic performance by Sam, Richie and Vincent. It was amazing!

Our walk back up to the bus was filled with smiles but I was a little bit sad that our project was over and we wouldn't be working with the Fundis any more on this trip. As we departed the worksite Todd gave us a reminder that we are very privileged to be able to leave the site.

Back at the house we celebrated Emily's birthday, whom we love very much, with cupcakes and a Sanskrit song. To close out our last day at the worksite we had a bon fire and some time to reflect on everything we have experienced. Keeping all that we have learned in our heart.