My time in Ocean View was truly a
life altering experience. Traditionally for me, Valentine`s Day has always been
a day about receiving instead of giving (similar to Christmas). This particular
Valentine`s Day was special because I spent my morning and afternoon giving to
the community and not once did I feel like I should be
receiving anything tangible back. We started off our day with 40 or
so little humans running around. We colored in hearts in the spirit of
Valentine`s Day and allowed children to get their group (butterflies,
elephants, dolphins, and penguins) painted on their cheeks. During this
time I was able to bond with a few of the children and understand how
important the space provided was for the families and the children themselves.
The day before we were fortunate to hear the owner of the school
speak about her personal struggle and how she was able to turn her house
into a school with little to no help. I admired her strength and fight
to accomplish her goals. After spending time with the children all
morning I went ballroom dancing that night. Chantel and a few of us went and it
was a blast. Everyone there was so nice and willing to teach us.
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| Kiya with her little Valentine |
Spending time with Chantel was
great. She took us to the beach which had to be the longest walk of
my life and the coldest water I have ever experienced. It was a great time
overall. Later on that day we went to the mall and explored the various stores
there. After the mall we explored Ocean View. It was interesting to see
how people where struggling yet they were so happy. We rode through the
town noticing how people where living and how they were making a living.
For such a beautiful country there was so much poverty in all areas. I wonder
what was the government doing to help these individuals.
The family we stayed with was very
warm and inviting. Auntie Katie and her husband made sure Cassie and I were
comfortable. It was so cute how every meal she set the table putting our
napkin inside our cups. I noticed while staying there that she was the neighborhood`s
Auntie as well. Everyone spoke when walking by. On Sunday I went to church with
them. I really enjoyed the young girls praise dancing at end of the ceremony.
That particular day all of the married couples were renewing their vows in
church. The church had a couple who had been through many trials
and tribulations speak to everyone about marriage and what a healthy
and successful one looks like. I thought it was very beneficial for people to
hear this information in the place where they worshipped. After
church Auntie Katie fixed us a big lunch (more like Sunday dinner)
where we all sat at the table together and talked. I hope I can visit them
again in the future.
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