The Place That Stole My Heart

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Love is universal. It’s the only thing that remains constant in a world full of differences — in language, culture, social norms, and beliefs. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from. Everyone has the capacity to love and to share their love with others.

This past spring break I felt called to spread my love to the children of the Arc in Constanza, Dominican Republic through Here For Kids International, where I created life long bonds with my team, the house parents and most importantly, the children of the Arc. The week prior I received news that one of my best friends was diagnosed with cancer. I wasn’t at the best place in my life to embark on a service trip to a third world country. On top of the problems in my personal life, I faced doubts about the entire trip. I went into it feeling so unsure. About everything. How was I suppose to function in a 3rd world country where I barely spoke the native tongue? With a group of people I had never met before. Will I be able to make connections? Will I even be able to make a difference? This trip was completely out of my comfort zone. I wasn’t sure if I was ready for it all but the moment I landed in the Dominican Republic all of my worries left my mind. From that moment on, any worries I did have, every thought, action — all towards the children. They were all that mattered.

The children were amazing. Their stories? breathe-taking. Abandoned, abused, beaten, unwanted. My heart ached hearing the stories of how these children arrived at the orphanage but despite the many adversities they faced in their lives they still found it in their hearts to continue to love. It was truly unbelievable. There were never signs of remorse or sadness. These children didn’t know the meaning of resentment. All they knew was love and forgiveness. I was a complete stranger to them, yet they found it in their hearts to love me whole heartedly. Despite the language barrier and my broken Spanish, I was able to develop relationships with everyone I met on this trip and with that, I’m forever grateful. I can not thank these kids enough for touching my life with their genuine and unconditional love. In just a matter of one week, these kids stole a piece of my heart.

I never felt so at home in a place that was so foreign to me but I did more than ever before. The 7 days flew by so fast. I felt like my time abroad was cut too short and there’s so much more that I wanted to do. I can feel my heart yearning to go back…I can’t even put into words how much this trip has changed my life and I don’t think anyone will ever understand it’s impact but all people need to know is that it did and that I’ve found my calling. The Dominican Republic, the children of The Arc, and even service trips in general — they all have a special place in my heart.