Emma, a Sacred Heart volunteer from France, talks about her two months volunteering in Mexico.
I spent 2 months in the community of Léon in Mexico. I’d always dreamed of living a unique and unusual experience far away from France to discover another culture and meet new people. So, when I graduated high school last year, I jumped at the opportunity to take a gap year and go on a mission trip.
For me, volunteering was a real challenge because I knew I was going into the unknown. Having only some information about the rscj’s educational project (tutoring, crafts, games…), I was still looking forward to it!
I learned to let go and really live in the moment. I had to adapt to a new culture, a new language, but also a different history and mentality, and it was a great learning experience for me! I’ve learned to appreciate the simple things and enjoy every moment with people who are very endearing and full of love.
I see my time as a volunteer to have been a tremendous gift to my life, as I was fortunate enough to experience so many things and to be exposed to some very harsh realities that are very different from my own. I don’t really know if I was able to contribute anything to the locals, but I do know that the moments of joy, love and sharing we had will forever be etched in our memories.
This mission trip is not just a trip, I came back grown and stronger and have learned a lot that I will use in my everyday life. I have experienced joy, tears, frustration, laughter, and most of all, memories that filled my head with people who have now become friends with whom I’ve kept in touch.
Sharing my experience as a volunteer with the Sacred Heart is my way of showing that you have to take up the gauntlet and not be afraid of leave your comfort zone to discover other realities. We only have one life, so now is the time!
