Georgene, Gretchen and Lucinda,
How do you begin something that you cannot define? When I first came home yesterday I knew I wanted to write you three and express my thanks for what you have shared but as my day went on what I wish to express to each of you has grown. Lucinda I would like to specifically thank you for preparing me for each of the stages that I went through, you were able to prepare me for emotions you knew I would have and you gave me just what I needed to process them. The rest of this letter is my joy moment that I would like to share with each of you.
I came on this trip because I felt a calling, I was not sure what it was or where it came from but there it was time and time again a voice calling out to me. I knew when I landed and stepped off the plane that I had finally come home. The first sounds, smells and people all seemed familiar, like family I had not seen in a long time. It felt as though I had just awakened from a dream.
The first time I met the children and saw the joy in their eyes and the determination in their hearts I knew I had found my place. I was a little skeptical at first and on guard because things that seem too good to be true often are. As the week progressed and I continued to interact with the children, teachers, the other volunteers and Great Shape Inc. as a whole, a sense of clarity began to come over me. I realized that I was meant to live a life of service, it felt natural. This trip was the first time I have felt whole in a very long time and even now I feel a sense of loss being away from the people of Jamaica and Great shape Inc. I cannot begin to express the awe that I have for what you have all created and the leadership that Joe exudes in his every action. I sit here with tears streaming down my face not because I miss you but because I have found you or maybe you found me.
Lucinda every time I would go through a stage you had prepared me for I would laugh and just say a quite thank you for your knowledge and willingness to share and support me through a very emotional time. Your example everyday of your courage and strength to show your emotions openly fostered a sense of trust and loyalty. Georgene and Gretchen your sheer force of will and determination emanates from you both and serve as a beacon for all. Lastly the unconditional love that you three showed me, well, there are just no words. While I know that not everyone sees the world as I do I hope through action to serve as an example. I do not have much to offer but what I have I offer to you and the people of Jamaica, my heart and my passion. When Great Shape is in-country I wish to be there offering whatever assistance I can from moving equip to the literacy program. When Great Shape is not in-country I will work to spread the message you have shared with me to others and work towards raising money and awareness. Thank you for everything. I hope this letter finds you all well.
One Love, One heart
Noah G.