Rustic has given me a glimpse into the lives of tribal peoples facing socio-political issues. This experience has given me the opportunity to investigate the youth that want to pursue knowledge and obtain identification. My peers may live half a world away, but we are all dreaming and growing. You can only learn so much through TV, newspapers, and media. Spending the last two weeks of my life hearing first-hand stories and ‘tribal issues’ of people my age throughout Southeast Asia provided me with a tremendous world view that I will keep with me forever. This trip has caught all of my emotions, but more than anything, has left me with the most memorable life experience. I am now forever motivated to share meals with anyone and delve into each other’s life stories. I’ve learned that you can judge no on until you know their reasoning, and when it comes down to it, we’re all the same. Our inaugural group was the best! When I left home, I was expecting another awesome summer with Rustic. What I got was a completely new understanding of the way others live and countless amazing stories and memories. This program provides the most knowledge about the people and cultures of Southeast Asia. It was the perfect combination of learning and having fun. This trip opened my eyes to issues I would have never thought kids my age would have to face. From having to leave school to care for a sick family member to living with HIV in a rural village, many of these people must deal with extremely difficult situations at such a young age. Not only was this trip the most moving experience I have ever undergone, it taught me that these kids have the drive, ability, and determination to succeed, but the opportunity has been taken from them. This is the best Rustic program I have ever been on! After traveling through three countries, numerous villages, and taking myriad flights, I have seen and done more than I could ever wish for. I fell in love in the last two weeks. I fell in love with the countries, the locals, the staff, my new friends, the memories I will cherish forever, but most of all, I fell in love with changing the world and truly creating positive energy. I am a different person today than I was five weeks ago. I am a better person and a happier person. Not only that, but because of Rustic, we have changed so many people for the better. I have seen and done some amazing things. I will never forget these last five weeks of my life. I want to continue traveling and one day work for Rustic. I wish the trips could last longer. Thank you for everything. On Tribal Issues I was able to associate real people with the stories I hear about on the news. These amazing, bright, determined people are no longer strangers, but instead they are my friends, companions, and heroes. I don’t think I could ever stop spreading awareness about these unfair situations because I can honestly say that I know how these people suffer and how much they deserve to have nothing but the best. This trip is eye opening, life changing, and has enhanced my world view. Along the way I have met people who face unimaginable hardships, and yet they continue to push through with a smile on their face. These people have inspired me to be a more tolerant and patient person. This is an amazing trip, and one I will never forget. |