Journal Entries : 1 | 2

Entry 1 - January 5, 2006

I never imagined that the first country that I would have a chance to visit would be Sri Lanka. At first I was a bit afraid and unsure about what I was getting myself into. I had never traveled outside the United States, so it was a completely new experience for me. However, now that we are at the end of our trip I have no regrets about coming on this trip. I never knew how many things I took for granted and how lucky I am to live in a country such as the United States.

Today we were able to see a typical upper middle class home and had a chance to eat lunch with Shrima and Nihal Senviratne. I was completely taken away with how beautiful their house was and how different their home was compared to the houses we have seen. We had a chance to discuss the history of Sri Lanka and ask them some questions about the role of women and children in Sri Lanka.

After lunch we were able to meet up with the boys from the Orphanage. We took them to an amusement park and even though it was raining we still had a blast. Seeing their faces filled with laughter made this trip worthwhile. These boys have gone through a lot and it makes me happy to be able to spend some time with them.

Sir Lanka has been a wonderful experience for me…a chance in a lifetime. Every person I have met on this trip has touched my life in one way or another and I can not believe it has finally come to an end. However, everything I have learned on this trip I will take with me forever and share with my family and friends. Being here has changed my life and words can not express how much I love this country.