6/21/2007 - An Experience without Measure
by Pascal Yelduora, Ghana 06-07; hosted in Olathe, KS
It has always been in my mind that I would someday visit a country that has a completely different cultural lifestyle from mine, though I could not imagine what country it would be. When this opportunity arrived, I had very little hope of making it, because it’s so competitive. But one thing I thought was, “in every battle, there is always a winner……..but who could that winner be!” That was the question that baffled me countless times. I asked myself, “Who am I?” Well, I finally conceded that it was a battle that needed commitment, determination and perseverance. Here I am today, in the dream land, and will remember it for the rest of my life.
A year of transformation, a year of achievement, a year of change and hopes for the future. I truly believe that when you know better you do better! Our past does not have to predict our future. Far too often it does. How do you break the cycle? How can the reflections from the present reveal a vision for a better future? But, I am confident that seeds will be planted after this wonderful year that will grow into unbelievable outcomes, because I have learnt a lot from this experience.
I can’t measure the impact my experience will have on my family, friends, and the community at large when I go back to my home country. With the experience that I have achieved, I can vehemently say that my life is never going to be the same, now and for years to come. I am very thankful for YES, for making me who I am today. With unity and determination, we can make a change. I know that for who/what ever I may be in future, YES will always be a part of me, as will you.
To wrap it up, I would like to share a poem with all 2006/7 exchange students:
“Our Deepest Fear”
by Marianne Williamson
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Our playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Wishing everyone the best of luck!
 |
Printer Friendly |
