Ecuador Reflection

As I took my first steps onto the plane out of Rochester, I really had no idea what to expect. Not only was this my first time taking a trip with McQuaid, but it was also my first time out of the country. This departure from my comfort zone was a little stressful. However, as I spent the first day as a volunteer, I realized how amazing the people and culture were. The center was filled with phenomenal people who loved the work they did.

During the week, we had the chance to visit the homes of the people who lived two hours away from the center. I was immediately taken back by how little the people had. Most of the mothers had five or ten children living in small huts, that did not even have drinkable water. Their children would wake up before six to take the long ride to the center. However, this was not what impacted me. I was impacted by the tremendous amount of hope they had. They were happy, and they had each other. Their hope was invigorating.

Each day was an opportunity for discovery. By helping paint, teach, and build with the children I not only helped them; but they helped me in return. I realized that no matter what happens in life, we can just smile and pick ourselves back up. I did not just leave with a sense of poverty. I left with something more. I left with a sense of determination and unity with the people. Although we had to leave, I will forever remember the great gift that I shared with the people of Quito. The people at the middle of the world.

-Alexander Caraballo '10