Reflections

Today is Day 13 in Vietnam. So far we have visited orphanages, community centers, vocational training centers, a center for blind children, an elderly home, and visited a village where we handed out cooking oil & rice. I'm sure there are other visits that I have left out. While its been a but of a whirlwind (we've done so much), it has also been so wonderful to see both peoples' reactions and the impact of true grassroots social work. This week especially, we have gotten to see more of the community-based programs as well as the programs that have been improving as their partnership with Brittany's Hope has evolved. It really is a blessing to be a part of this trip and to witness and experience e first-hand the impact that one organization can have on so many people. It has been a great reminder for me on a personal level as well. I know that what I love to do and what I am most invested in is this type of work. Being able to see the appreciation and feel so welcomed by children and adults in a culture sofar from your own is a really great feeling. It's amazing to see the development and progress that can be made with access to resources and training.
The city that we are currently in doesn't receive a lot of foreign visitors. There is essentially no tourism here, and the foreigners that do come tend to be Asian businessmen or other Vietnamese traveling for governmental or business purposes. I suppose, then, it's fitting that a large group of wezternersmwould arrive in a bright pink coach-style bus. We've attracted some attention, though its much more curiosity than anything. We have spent two days at the Ha Tinh orphanage (government-run). Yesterday we sponsored a karate lesson which allowed other students and adults from the community to come in to the center. We got to participate, then had a gift-giving ceremony for the children living at the orphanage and a "party" before dinner that consisted of dancing, singing, and socialization amongst everyone. It was a great time, and really, really wonderful to see the high school students and adults from the community be so involved in the orphanage. This has by far been my favorite service part of the trip. I feel like we are actually immersed in the city/culture, and since we are this first group from Brittany's Hope to visit the orphanage here, it's a very special experience for all involved. As far as locations go, Hoi An was certainly relaxing - we stayed in a resort not too far from the touristy downtown Ancient City section of town, and it had a great feel of Aussies & Kiwis as well as some Europeans.