My Inspiration

"Deep within our hearts, each of us carries the seed of a secret dream, special and unique to each individual. Sometimes another person can share that dream and help it grow to fulfillment, other times the dream remains a solitary pursuit known only to the seeker. But secret or shared, no matter what it might be, a dream is a potential which should never be discouraged. For each of us also carries within ourselves a light which can cause the seed to grow and blossom into beautiful reality. That same light I've seen shine so clearly in you!" ~Edmund O'Neill

People often ask me why Ghana? Why would I want to leave the United States, giving up all of my materialistic treasures and leaving my family, to travel alone to a third world country where I may not have running water or electricity? I understandably get labeled as a "home body" simply based on my quiet and reserved personality. I admit, I like being in the comfort of my own home with people I know and love, but what I like more is chasing after a dream! Most people only acknowledge what is on the outside, thus they never get to know who is on the inside. Something I have struggled with nearly all my life is the lack of social relationships. As much as I would like to say I have close friendships and am involved with activities every weekend, the bottom line is it’s not the truth. I have a habit of criticizing myself for my own inhibitions, but then I realize the significance of my simple lifestyle, taking pride and accepting who I am, the accomplishments I’ve made, and the goals I’ve established for the future. After traveling to Ghana as a 16 year old, my heart and mind were transformed. Most my insecurities seemed to vanish while I was there and I focused my attention on enjoying exposure to cultural differences and falling in love with vulnerable children. What I have now is a better understanding of the impoverished world. I have since carried with me the passion to return and serve God through reaching out to those in need. So what is it that inspires me to go? The answer is simple... the people. I love looking into the eyes of the small African children and having this sense of instant connection. One of compassion. One of hope. One of love. If I have the potential to change just one child's life, it's worth it to me! I have carried with me this “seed of a secret dream” that has finally been given the opportunity to blossom. I can’t explain what it is about my personality that prevents me from being this outgoing young woman, but what I can share is pursuing the desire of my heart. This marks the beginning of my journey to Ghana! On June 27^th, I will depart to volunteer as a nursing intern with the international program, Projects Abroad. Two months will be spent working at Central Regional Hospital in Cape Coast and one month will be living in the rural Akuapem Hills, traveling to work at the Ghana Police Hospital in the capital city of Accra. I will then of course take time to travel and visit with my previous host family and friends. I invite each person reading this to not only enjoy sharing my insights into the Ghanaian culture and my experiences as a nursing intern, but also to allow your heart and mind to be transformed and gain a global perspective on how you can use your own dream to make a difference!