a final letter from canada

so i'm back home. hiding out at my parents house. i've been out once in 3 days. partly fatigue, partly not really knowing what to do with myself.
i was so exhausted and ready to leave when i left, that i didn't think i'd miss the kids so soon. but i do. i really miss them. i wish i had the ability to pop in and see them over a weekend - but that's not going to happen.
the luxury that i'm surrounded with now that i'm home just emphasizes how little the kids i was working with have. it's unsettling.
that being said, i'm glad to see my family again - i'm lucky to have all this to come home to. i feel like i've won the lottery.

i was going to write a blog summarizing my trip. the pros and cons, the good and bad. right now that doesn't feel necessary. there were a lot of frustrations, and the work could be overwhelming - but i have no regrets. advice for those who might want to volunteer or donate to an organization is to thouroughly research the organization, talk to present and past volunteers before jumping into anything major. that being said, all the description and advice will not prepare you - it's definitely about going with the flow.

on a final note - if you're looking to help, and wish you could take a bite out of poverty - start by looking at the companies you support on a daily basis. try to shop locally - avoid where you can companies that exploit third world countries. do a little research.
and remember, when you're watching t.v. or reading magazines and comparing yourself to the rich and famous - wondering why you don't get to be so lucky - you are lucky. no need to feel guilty about it - just be aware.

thank you so much to everyone who has supported me on my journey - it's wonderful to have so many people out there who have my back.

happy holidays to everyone - i hope you and your friends and families are happy and healthy.