Healing Thru Service
In 2012, life as I knew it crumbled. I was navigating a recent divorce, and the thought of spending the holidays alone was unbearable. My heart, once full, now had a void the size of Alaska. Desperate to escape the loneliness, I decided to do something drastic—something that wasn’t about me. With friends' encouragement and financial support, I woke up alone in an Atlanta hotel room on Christmas morning, ready to embark on a journey that would change my life forever. My destination: Guatemala.
I had heard about humanitarian expeditions and was fortunate enough to connect with an organization whose values resonated deeply with my own—CHOICE Humanitarian. Their approach to service empowers local communities to thrive sustainably, rather than relying on short-term aid. It’s about lending a hand, teaching people to fish rather than giving them fish, and building meaningful connections.
The Transformation Begins
Service has an incredible way of healing our hearts. What started as an expedition to make a positive impact in a small, remote village turned into a journey of self-discovery and transformation. That trip to Guatemala was just the beginning. I returned home with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound perspective. So profound was the impact that I became a Certified Expedition Leader for CHOICE Humanitarian and now lead a trip or two every year. These expeditions fill my cup in more ways than I could have imagined—through adventure, cultural immersion, and deep human connections.
On a trip to Kenya in 2020, in the small village of Dzisuhuni, I met a woman named Umaji. We sat together, making dolls out of fabric scraps. The children laughed at my attempts, but I persisted, stitching eyes and a mouth onto the fabric with thread. These dolls, simple as they were, played a crucial role in encouraging young children to attend school, ultimately increasing retention rates. It was a small act with a big impact—one that mirrored my journey of rediscovering joy and purpose through service.
The Power of Intercultural Exchange
In every expedition, the work we do is essential, but the intercultural exchange is equally transformative. I’ve dug ditches alongside locals, trekked miles to bring back supplies from quarries, and painted more fingernails than I can count. Through these shared experiences, I’ve gained new perspectives, learned valuable lessons, and formed deep connections with people halfway across the world. These moments of connection remind me of the words of Mark Twain: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”
I’ve also seen firsthand how access to education can change lives. One of our projects focused on building a school, and I was heartbroken by the stories of young women who drop out of school simply because they lack access to feminine hygiene products. Thanks to organizations like Days for Girls, these girls now have reusable pads, allowing them to continue their education. It’s a reminder that the smallest things can make the biggest difference.
Lessons Learned
Change is hard. And change fatigue is real. But through my work with CHOICE and the incredible teams I’ve been a part of, I’ve learned that when we approach change with an open heart and mind, it becomes an opportunity for growth. The dedication and commitment of CHOICE’s locally-based staff inspire me daily. Their unwavering commitment to alleviating poverty pushes me to be a better human.
People are more alike than different. We all have struggles and challenges and we’re all doing our best. When we assume positive intent, the world becomes a much kinder place. Life and its challenges can be overwhelming, but when we show up to support one another and open our hearts to receiving support, life becomes so much easier. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up.
Why It Matters
My journey with CHOICE Humanitarian has taught me that service is not just something we do—it’s a way of life. It has influenced every aspect of who I am, from how I parent to how I connect with others. Every morning, I ask myself, “How can I make my corner of the world a better place today?” Sometimes, it’s in small acts of kindness, like forgiving my son for pulling the towel bar off the wall. Other times, it’s in offering empathy to someone who is struggling. And often, it’s in giving myself grace as I navigate the complexities of life.
In the end, it’s all about making the world a better place, one small act at a time. My work with CHOICE has been a miraculous journey of healing, growth, and connection. And while the road hasn’t always been easy, it’s one I wouldn’t trade for anything.
I invite you to ask yourself the same question: “How can I make the world a better place today?” You might be surprised by the impact it has on your own heart.
