From the eyes of Reid...

Hola everyone!

Today we woke up to another delicious breakfast (like usual) and practiced our origami for hours before leaving for the high school where we would hand out Tom’s shoes. It was our first and only shoe distribution so I was hoping to make it a memorable one. When we arrived, at first, I’ll admit I was a little nervous to be helping people older than me to try on their shoes. This anxiety quickly evaporated once we started and I realized that they were nice people just like the rest of us. It is a very unique experience to be kneeling down by someone and removing their shoes for them, and then proceeding to help them test out another pair of shoes. It is very humbling and especially so if you don’t understand what they are saying.

When the last of the students were served, we packed up our boxes and headed out to see an important Catholic church before driving to the school where we would do our second OCC (Operation Christmas child) distribution. When we were introduced and the kids learned that we would be painting faces and nails, blowing bubbles, and just playing with them in general, they were so happy that they screamed and jumped up and down. It made you feel so special to know that they were happy you were there and excited to play with you.

After out free play time was over, it was time to hand out the shoeboxes, the children had their eyes closed until everyone had received a box and then they all opened their eyes together. As soon as they saw what they had in their hands, they were so excited and wanted to open them right away. Some of them were so excited that they actually ripped open the cardboard boxes before we had a chance to help them open it!

Throughout the whole experience, I was surprised at how happy the children were doing things that we take for granted. It reminds me of how blessed we are and makes me want to share more of what I have with people who are less fortunate than us.

See you soon!
- Reid