Our final day is over and Despina and I are beyond grateful for this experience. I cried like a baby when we left the shelter knowing that I may never see these children again and that our departure saddened them even more! Yet... I was so happy for what Operation Smile could do for them. Every one of them will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could bring them all home with me!
This afternoon I remembered that I have a job! It's so funny that I didn't think about it once! I would say back to the real world but what I've experienced here IS the real world. All of us have so much in our lives and I am thankful for all of it and for my incredible friends and family.. But... The easiest thing we can do is be kind. There is always someone that needs our help, our kindness and even our smile. I am certain that this will leave a lasting impression on Despina and her already kind heart will only grow bigger.
The latter part of our day and evening was spent laughing and experiencing Panama with our team. They were beyond kind to us and I cannot wait to see them all again. The students were amazing and I am so impressed by their willingness to give and their leadership. They had a great time with Despina and treated her like a little sister. I am so proud of all of them and want them to come to the U.S.
Despina will miss them so much!
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She always watched everyone with curious eyes and was so shy. By the end of the week she felt comfortable running to me for a hug.
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Yilka! I could NOT beat her at memory match card game. She killed me every time. After a few games I remember thinking.., what the heck.. Am I old or something?
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This one makes me sad! I'll miss them!
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Kaela saying bye!
kim Urch
4/26/2013 10:57:50 pm

What a wonderful experience you can share with Despina!

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Harris Titsis
4/27/2013 09:18:11 pm

Truly an amazing organization both of you did a fantastic job I'm very prod of you

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Lynnette Benedetti
4/28/2013 09:12:19 am

Just as you and Despina, we will always remember your kind hearts, your laugh and the way you treated everyone you came in contact with as if they were old friends.

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Emma Granada
5/1/2013 01:05:35 pm

Welcome back!! We missed you! We've read some really good experiences...looking forward to hearing more details next time we see you.

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Arthur Schleifer
5/7/2013 06:43:56 am

Thank you both for giving your time to such a worthy cause. Look forward to hearing details from the trip.

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Misty Scanlon
10/14/2013 06:55:46 am

Well I just read this entire thing. How amazing. What an unbelievable thing for Despina to experience (you as well). Thanks for making me cry at my desk at work!

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