With Thanksgiving having just past, I like many others had a chance to reflect on what I’m thankful for. Certainly family, friends, and the ability to help others was at the forefront. It also dawned on me that I was able to experience all these things on our recent mission to Peru, even though the trip started off a little rough.
A Rough Start
With high hopes and expectations, we, unfortunately, began our journey by not only by missing our flight but also having our luggage lost during the flight. After arriving in Peru the travel to the clinic took 3 long days. But once we arrived at the clinic in Cusco things immediately started to transform for the better.
The Eye-Opener
We were dropped off early in the morning and were greeted by lines literally wrapped around the block, many having already waited hours to be treated. This was an eye-opener to see how many people needed help in regards to their vision. Camille was especially touched by how “each and everyone that was seen would come up and give you a big hug and a smile instead of speaking English. I didn’t speak enough Spanish to understand. But they made a point to simply express that they were beyond grateful, leaving with big smiles on their faces. Even when it started to rain heavily outside, it didn’t bother them at all and they were willing to stay in line waiting to be examined and receive the glasses they so badly needed. I will forever remember all their faces, young and old, and stop to think about how fortunate we are when we return home and to not take things for granted. A life long lesson that I will share with our friends and family.”
My daughter Amanda was also affected by the gratefulness of the people, expressing “because what we were providing them with most of them had not had before. It was uplifting to me because it helped me know that what I was doing for their community was changing their lives and that I could share resources I had with people that did not.” Adding that one of the most memorable persons she saw was “a little girl who’s older brother was disabled (he had severe cerebral palsy). She was so sweet and kissed us all on the cheek to thank us. Her family was one of the last we examined in the three days so it was a sweet ending to the work we did.”
A Beautiful Country
Although there was not much time away from the clinic we did have a chance to fit in some of the beautiful sites of Peru, with Machu Picchu being a particular highlight. Amanda reflected the importance of being able to learn about different countries and cultures. “I was able to visit a seventh wonder in the same hours I sit in a classroom and got much more out of the experience for it. The visit to Peru left me with a new experience that I couldn’t have had if I had not gone.”
For me, I would have to agree that the most memorable thing from the trip was the unabated gratitude of the Peruvian people and the steadfast dedication and compassion of my wife and daughter. They were both champs as they helped measure and fit for eyeglasses all day, like true abroad Opticians. They saw the multitude of individuals that had absolutely nothing. Allowing themselves to be put in a situation where they had to push through their comfort zones. They rose above their fears and conquered them. It was an inspiration.
The Return Gift, Gratitude
The biggest takeaway for me has been “time, talent, treasure”. God calls us all to serve. Serve those that cannot care for themselves. Gratitude is the lesson in “It is in giving that you receive.” I was exhausted yet energized. I am “almost” ready for the next one right now. I am so grateful.