Day three in Orlando was dedicated to hands-on service and heartfelt connections. We spent the day moving furniture for an agency devoted to assisting refugees—a small yet meaningful contribution to their journey of rebuilding. The resources newcomers get are incredibly small, so these donations go a long way to helping them get settled into the country.
However, the true essence of the day unfolded during the evening ESL (English as a Second Language) classes. I had the honor of chauffeuring the clients to and from the sessions, allowing me to serve practically and engage with them on a personal level.
With my limited Spanish skills, I was able to help teach a family of three. Witnessing the determination and resilience in the eyes of these individuals as they worked tirelessly to grasp a new language was humbling.
In the pauses between lessons, I listened intently to their stories—narratives of fleeing from South America, leaving behind everything familiar in pursuit of safety and opportunity. Their courage in the face of adversity left me profoundly moved.
As we taught and learned together, we also delved into global refugee issues. Did you know that the US takes in 82% of the world’s refugees? This staggering statistic underscores the magnitude of displacement worldwide.
Through these discussions, I gained a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by refugees—the wars, corrupt governments, and unsafe environments they endure. It served as a poignant reminder of our privilege and the imperative to stand in solidarity with those in need.
Day three opened my eyes to the harsh realities many endure while also igniting a fire within to continue making a difference, one act of kindness at a time.
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