Nepal Quest Part 2
1. PRAYER FLAGS | 2. BOUDHANATH STUPA | 3. PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE | 4. MOTHER & DAUGHTER IN THIMI | 5. KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE | 6. GARDEN OF DREAMS | 7. RAJESHWORI | 8. SHOE SHOPPING L-R: SONIA, MADHU, ANITA, NINA | 9. LAST DAY L-R: SNEHA (MY HOST SISTER), SONY, CHAKRAS, HIMAL, RAJAN, RAM, LAXMAN, RAJESHWORI, ME
When I decided to partake in this journey I wasn't under the false illusion that I would change the world in 4 weeks—I'm too much of a realist. What I did hope for was to leave a lasting impression on the children. Little did I realize that I needed them more than they needed me.
As I walked through the gate that led into the OCCED/Nepal children's home on my first day, I imagined that the 28 children inside would be sitting quietly on the floor, feeling sad because they were orphans—many of them were left on the doorstep by family, while others were found wandering the streets and brought to the orphanage by the police—but instead, I was immediately tackled by a gang of excited children. Some were shy and hesitated to approach me; however, after only a couple of hours they wouldn't let go of me, holding my hand, touching my forearm tattoo, sitting on my lap and fighting for my attention.
I had brought gifts for them. Donations from family, friends and readers, some of whom had generously given a cash donation, which proved to be an invaluable gift. I honestly can't thank those of you who contributed enough. The money donated provided six months worth of food, as well as healthcare for the children and educational materials. This will last approximately one year. Other gifts such as pencils, crayons, coloring books and miscellaneous toys were treasures to the children. To see their faces light up at the sight of something that many take for granted was heartfelt.
I worked at the orphanage Sunday to Friday 10am-4pm. I helped the children with their homework, but mostly just spent time playing with them. I also assisted the didis (big sisters) in their general work. Volunteering requires so little in the way of prerequisite. You don't need any formal qualifications or training; only that you make the decision to show up, to open your mind and heart to the people you are trying to help, and that you do as you are asked once you arrive.
Despite the poverty and corruption in Nepal, I was amazed at the warmth and positivity of the people I met. Even though at times it was difficult, it was the most fulfilling and enriching experience of my life. The truly hardest part of the trip was saying goodbye to the children and staff of OCCED/Nepal, to my host family and to Social Tours, who was the best support group I could ever ask for. Dhanybhad.
XOXO,
As I walked through the gate that led into the OCCED/Nepal children's home on my first day, I imagined that the 28 children inside would be sitting quietly on the floor, feeling sad because they were orphans—many of them were left on the doorstep by family, while others were found wandering the streets and brought to the orphanage by the police—but instead, I was immediately tackled by a gang of excited children. Some were shy and hesitated to approach me; however, after only a couple of hours they wouldn't let go of me, holding my hand, touching my forearm tattoo, sitting on my lap and fighting for my attention.
I had brought gifts for them. Donations from family, friends and readers, some of whom had generously given a cash donation, which proved to be an invaluable gift. I honestly can't thank those of you who contributed enough. The money donated provided six months worth of food, as well as healthcare for the children and educational materials. This will last approximately one year. Other gifts such as pencils, crayons, coloring books and miscellaneous toys were treasures to the children. To see their faces light up at the sight of something that many take for granted was heartfelt.
I worked at the orphanage Sunday to Friday 10am-4pm. I helped the children with their homework, but mostly just spent time playing with them. I also assisted the didis (big sisters) in their general work. Volunteering requires so little in the way of prerequisite. You don't need any formal qualifications or training; only that you make the decision to show up, to open your mind and heart to the people you are trying to help, and that you do as you are asked once you arrive.
Despite the poverty and corruption in Nepal, I was amazed at the warmth and positivity of the people I met. Even though at times it was difficult, it was the most fulfilling and enriching experience of my life. The truly hardest part of the trip was saying goodbye to the children and staff of OCCED/Nepal, to my host family and to Social Tours, who was the best support group I could ever ask for. Dhanybhad.
XOXO,
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14 comments:
I think it would be terribly difficult to let go those children... I can only imagine how heartfelt and touching this trip was for you, and I am so proud that you learned to broaden your horizons and open your heart and mind to new people and cultures. I know you're a new woman, and I am so happy for you and proud of that fact.
What an enriching trip, Lily... I have no more words.
Gorgeous, my love.
xx{ish.},
Mae Lu @ thereafterish.!
I’m so glad you had such a captivating experience and left with a fresh perspective on life. The heartfelt story of the children's appreciation for the littlest things in life is truly humbling.
www.TheFancyTeacup.com
That's such a wonderful experience! I'm so glad everything went for a good cause!
littleivory.blogspot.com
It's so heart-warming to see the smile on the children's faces. Despite their circumstances, they don't let the situation get in the way of happiness. That's an encouraging model we should follow.
On a side note, love the last picture. You're smile is big and genuine. :) Loveeeee seeing you like that!
Lianna
www.thesavvyfrugalista.com
Lily, you have written wonderful things. Congratulations on this magical experience. You really are a great person.
kiss from italy
WWW.THELASTILLUSION.BLOGSPOT.COM
Good for you for doing this Lily. Very few people can go on the type of journey that you have been on.
Lily, beautiful pictures and thank you for sharing this amazing experience of yours. It's inspiring to see how you have made such an impact on the childrens' lives.
xo
such a beautiful and refreshing post, you are truly inspirational and BEAUTIFUL, inside and out!
You write so beautifully, it's seriously so inspiring. I love reading your blog!
Ahhh I can't wait to read more about your trip. Must be one of the best experiences of your life!
Bonnie
http://ItsStrangelyMe.com
I love how you said you need them more than they needed you! So beautiful!!!
You did something amazing!
www.afashionsoiree.com
Lily!!! So happy to see you had such an amazing time, I'm loving your Nepal posts. How have you felt since coming home? Hope you're doing well love :)
Alex xoxo
http://tovogueorbust.com/
I find adventure very touching, thanks for sharing. I love fashion blog, but sometimes it can get a little disconnected from the reality.
DC
xx
This is beautiful. I hope to venture on a journey similar to this one day soon....
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