Nicaragua: Keeps me awake

I give thanks...for yesterday, for the many yesterdays before that, for today, and for all of the tomorrows to come. I give thanks...for health, and strength, and daily bread. I give thanks...for the fatigue, frustration, imperfection, and confusion which provide beautiful opportunities for discovery and learning every moment of every day. I give thanks...for the people who by some random algorithm or maybe not-so-coincidental divine intervention have crossed my path, thus enriching this experience called life. I give thanks.

Every day presents us with infinite opportunities to give thanks, but this week, my heart feels especially grateful.

Last week we hosted over 120 high school students from all regions of Nicaragua at a three-day entrepreneurship conference and business plan competition in the capital city. Being a part of the organizational committee for this event presented daunting challenges, and at times I felt way in over my head, incapable, and unsupported. It has been said, however, that the shadow proves the sunlight. Upon hearing positive testimonies from students and teachers after the event, all of our work felt worth it. 

"This has been an unforgettable experience."

"I have never been a part of anything as great as this."

"I made new friends and connected with people from parts of the country I had never heard of before."

"I learned to explore my opportunities beyond high school, to pursue my dreams, and to never say never."

Words cannot express my gratitude for all of the efforts that combined to make this project a success. I thank the students who actively participated in two days of personal and professional development, the teachers who diligently prepared students to present their business plans at the national level, my fellow volunteers who accompanied students and teachers throughout the entire process and facilitated impacting and memorable activities, our team of inspirational colleagues who put in countless hours to make it all happen, and the donors who supported our project.

All of the conference participants sharing a message of thanks for all of the people who donated to our project.

And with that being said, it is time to rest my soul if but for a brief moment, and then to keep moving forward. For that and so much more, I am thankful.