NOLA- The Work Week (Alex)

At the end of four days of work on a home on Pauger Street in New Orleans, the feeling cannot be described. While we have built homes, we have also built friendships and experiences, the ideas of which must surely carry over beyond this trip. While the vast variety of thoughts, experiences, and emotions during the work day cannot be done justice in one blog post, I will try my best.

The work week for our group entailed finishing door frames, installing base boards, creating and painting a small shed, finishing tiles in the front porch, making and painting a bench, etc. During our work, we maintained a strong work ethic. Although we would take time to regroup and remember the meaning of our time, our physical labor was at the center of our work day.

However, some of the most moving moments during our work days took place during our lunch. We got to connect with our site managers through the "question of he day." One of our managers, Christina, told her incredibly moving life story, and how she had miraculously transformed crushing hardship to a iron willingness to serve. Her positive attitude allowed me to put into perspective the importance of persevering through difficulty, and seeking refuge through selfless service. Meeting Christina, along with the incredible people I met throughout the week, gave true substance to the work we were doing.

Overall, being able to go on this trip has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. My greatest wish is that our group doesn't lose the love we have gained for service and compassion- while this week may be the spark of interest in service and diligence, it is up to us to spread the fire we have gained from this trip to everyone whom we meet once we return.

-Alex