Hello my lovely readers! I am approaching the end of my Spring Break and of course I have to share.
I had the honor and privilege to participate in a Spring Break service trip to New Orleans to assist in rebuilding homes that have been damaged by natural disasters. And when I tell you this trip has been so rejuvenating and life changing, I feel like a new woman.

One of my current favorite quotes is by Gandhi and it states,
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service of others.” 

And I couldn’t say this any better myself.

I have a strong passion for service and so learning about this trip last year, instantly sparked my interest. Being able to attend, assist so many, and form so many bonds just made it even more worthwhile.
While in NOLA, I was able to prime a house, utilize a saw amongst other power tools, and put up siding on another house. I don’t want to disclose too much information about the people we aided, because that is their story. And you would have had to been there, interacted with them and witnessed this for yourself. However, nothing feels better to help someone and see the look on their face when they acknowledge that you took time out of your day to help make theirs. That is a priceless look and feeling. And what made it even better, was to do it with about 63 peers from my lovely college, who thought it not robbery to give their time too.

It is important to give back to your community, in whatever way you find possible. Any little act helps. Even if it’s as simple as giving your leftovers to someone on the street who has no food, or giving your umbrella to a homeless lady and her children while it is raining.

You never know when you could be in need OR how differently your life could be if you weren’t blessed the way you are, because trust me we are so blessed. The Bible also states the importance of service by stating that service is an action of love and when we serve, we demonstrate this love (Galatians 5:13).

So I challenge you to continuously give back. And if given the opportunity to participate in a service trip, participate. It will be so impactful on your life and the lives of others.

Love,
J.Alane