When you're sitting on your couch watching the next episode on Netflix, it's easy to imagine that the world is only as big as your own life. You have a comfortable home, plenty of food, and easy access to education. You forget that for many people, that isn't a reality. Traveling to a different country definitely imparts a sense of gratitude, but I think the most significant lesson learned on our trip to Brazil is the importance of being open to others. Whether it be their language or their way of life, one conversation with a new person can give you a brand new perspective of the world.
When we were visiting the rain forest in Manaus, we were able to step inside a family's home that sat on the edge of the river. The majority of the home was not separated from the outside air, so animals and bugs were free to come and go. At first I was shocked that people could live there. They were extremely far from any town, so much so that the children had a two hour trip to school. And the exposure to nature made it feel dirty to me. But after spending a few minutes with the family, it began to feel more natural. When asked if anyone wanted to try preparing a dish called tapioca, Genti threw up her hand and said "I do!". Our group settled in around the family dining table and I began to understand the beauty of such a home. Dominique exclaimed, "Look at the cute cat!", as she ran to scoop up and cuddle the kitten. Hearing the birds from the rain forest and the soothing smell of the river, I felt peaceful. There was a connection to nature and the people living in the home that many in the U.S. and other developed areas may never come to know.
One day in Rio de Janeiro, we joined a group of girls from a favela, a poorer town in Brazil. Their teacher accompanied them to give us a taste of what their percussion class was like, a program aiming to keep kids on a path free from violence and drugs. While none of the girls could speak English, their willingness to help those of us struggling to learn the rhythm displayed their characters clear as day. "I am so lost," sighed Lexi. Immediately after throwing her hands up in frustration, she was accompanied by a girl to teach her the beat. They weren't afraid to approach someone and lend a helping hand. They had no shame in dancing and moving their bodies alongside people they had never met before. Their openness to others and eagerness to help inspired me, and it's a lesson I have definitely brought with me back to the U.S.
Many realizations were had on this engaging trip to Brazil, one being the importance of sleep. However, I personally will remember the acceptance and openness I found both in the group of Illinois students and the Brazilians we met along the way. Each relationship I fostered in these past two weeks gave me new insight into different lifestyles and new opportunities. No one person seemed to be doing things the right way; everyone was just trying to figure out the rhythm that fit their own lives. Brazil has shown me the impact that even a short-term friendship can have on a life, and that being willing to invite others into your life can bring unimaginable opportunities your way. The trip was, as Agnes would say, "unreal".
コメント