During my time volunteering in Vietnam, I’ve noticed many cultural differences between the people here and the people back in America. As I work with the kids, I’m surprised everyday at their kindness and each of their distinct personalities. The teachers and children at Giving It Back To Kids have all been very affectionate. For example, immediately upon my first visit to Mary’s Home, I was given 3 hugs and some girls held my hand to walk me inside. I was shocked because this would never occur in the US, but I was so grateful that these girls wanted to become close to me. Throughout that day, we spent time together doing various activities, all of which were met with great enthusiasm from each girl. It warmed my heart that every person there was willing to invite me into their lives with such kindness. There was one girl there who truly made a connection with me, who I’ll never forget. She was 6 years old and didn’t speak any English, but that didn’t stop us from communicating. She had noticed the Winnie The Pooh keychain I had on my backpack and I let her play with it as we introduced ourselves. Later that day when we were drawing, she motioned for me to teach her how to draw the bear. Even though she probably couldn’t understand what I was saying, she managed to follow my directions and ended up creating a better drawing than me. I let her keep the keychain, as a token for her to remember me and the time we spent together. About a week later, when I returned for another art lesson, she had shown me that she put the keychain on her own backpack, along with keeping the drawing in the front pocket. I find it incredible that the kids I’ve met here have been so welcoming to me, even though I was a stranger. There was never any hesitation from any of the children I’ve worked with to help me out when needed and making sure that I was comfortable in this new environment. Back in the US, it’s much harder to create that bond so quickly since life moves so fast there. I’m so grateful to have volunteered with Giving It Back To Kids because I’ve been granted an opportunity to meet some of the friendliest, most considerate people.
Gallery - Click Images
