On reflection……
It is certainly a difficult task to put into the words the feelings running through all of the wonderful week 5 team at the moment without repeating the words already said in the previous 4 weeks, or without it feeling like a cliche.
Today is our last day in Nong Khai and as I type everyone is packing away their things and reflecting on what has been. As for me, from the moment the team met until the time we say our goodbyes tomorrow, I have been part of something truly special. A truly life changing experience in every sense.
The work was tackled with gusto and every hour of every working day, we could see the environment for the children improving immeasurably. Our team with hardwork and teamwork transformed the front of the main Sarnelli House, the inside of the main building, bedrooms, gardens, the children’s sick room, front gate and wall and of course the signs!! Sarnelli House now says loud and proud what a special place it is.
And as for the children……..
Without doubt the interaction with every child was the most moving and special part of the trip. Having read the context with which they came to Sarnelli House and to see them thrive and develop in such a special environment was the most amazing thing. From the minute we met them last Sunday, there were no barriers, each and every one of us instantly made friends we will never forget. My friends, Net, Geow, Top, Leow, Mut and Nong greeting me with such warmth and enthusiasm every time they came home from school that these images will never fade from my memory. Language was never an issue, the smiles were enough.
The final day included words from Father Mike and a thank you ceremony from the children that would turn the most hardened person to mush. I had held it together well (which is more than I can say for BFJ), until right at the end, after I had said goodbyes that I didn’t want to end, when Net started crying as the minibus pulled away. Needless to say the journey back to the hotel was in complete silence as everyone tried to make sense of how they were feeling.
Put simply, this has been a truly memorable trip and the feelings I have for Sarnelli House, all the staff, the wonderful children and my 11 new best friends will never leave me.
Good luck week 6
Adam
lazuli1 said,
November 30, 2007 @ 12:11 pm
Bang…
Amazing Adam.
Steve.
Debs Cook said,
November 30, 2007 @ 6:34 pm
Amazing Blog Adam. Everything you have said mirrors my own thoughts.
This fantastic experience cannot be out into words. It’s impossible.
Be very proud of everything you have achieved and keep those memories locked in your head.
Safe journey home.
Debs Cook (wk 3)
Mum said,
November 30, 2007 @ 8:36 pm
Well Adam sounds like it was even more life-changing and memorable than you expected. We are so proud of you and what you and the rest of week 5 have achieved.
Have a very safe journey home
Love mum, John and Katexxx
Alison Bastable said,
December 2, 2007 @ 12:06 am
Think everything you are all doing is amazing. These experiences will never leave you - make the most of every minute and be really proud of yourselves . We are. !
Goodluck to everyone on week 6 !
Alison xx
Claire Norgates sister (week 6)
Trace said,
December 2, 2007 @ 8:21 am
Awesome Blog Adam - what an amazing time we had. Wonderful to meet you and all the rest of the dirty dozen. Loads of love till next we meet T xx
Jules said,
December 2, 2007 @ 10:14 am
Hi Adam
Looks like week 5 have done a grand job work wise - I’d love to see pictures of the front gates.
As for your experience with the children, well after week 6 are done I think BUPA will have 60 individuals who will be rallying the business to continue its support and pester colleagues, managers, directors, etc to sponsor some of these wonderful children.
Your blog is bringing back my memories and I’ve spent about an hour this morning going through all my photos again.
Safe trip home.
Jules XX (Week 4)