As we are wrapping up our service adventure, we’ve been reflecting on how far we’ve come, as well as the journey we continue. On our first work day we immediately bonded as a team, not only as hard workers, but as a family. We’ve come together through both organised team activities, and the little moments we spend together like sharing meals- immersed in the Vietnamese culture – taking work breaks, and commuting to and from the work site where we have truly come together. Reflecting on all of these moments, expands our gratitude and appreciation of how lucky we are to be experiencing these simple joys, and – especially without our phones – allows us to be in the moment without stressing over the little things. It creates the effect of having our own little world, enclosed by these bonding experiences.
Looking back from the very first day on the work site, seeing an empty space with a lot to to be done, we struggled to envision a final successful product. Now seeing what we’ve achieved we feel a sense of pride and success as we’ve connected with so many welcoming locals that have shared their home and culture with us. Seeing the symbol of our hard work in the form of a almost finished dam we understand the work involved to create something so essential for this community, opening our eyes to the realities of our privilege and misconceptions of broader cultures. Through our perseverance and commitment to this project, though sore, dirty and tired at the end of each day, we feel satisfied at the difference we’ve made and rewarded for giving back to this place we’ve become so connected to. Although our time here has quickly elapsed we feel immensely grateful for all that we’ve shared together, life long friendships we’ve gained, and memories we will carry with us forever! With around five days left together we aim to cherish every moment and make the most of the time we have together in this unique environment.
Janey, Jaime, Hanna and Daisy
