Cultural Education & Study Abroad Readiness

Reflection in the botanical gardens

Our final morning reflection began with a trip to the botanical gardens in Cuernavaca. The gardens provided a tranquil and beautiful atmosphere in which to evaluate the C.E.S.A.R. experience.

Everyone was given a short story about a wealthy child who visits the impoverished countryside only to discover he considers the lives of a simpler people 'richer' in some respects. This was followed by several questions meant to inspire thought and reflection in the students. Everyone then found a quiet place for solitary reflection on the experience, after which we had a discussion and shared our thoughts about the last week and in relation to the story. Highlight excerpts include:

"I learned that you are not supposed to judge others by the way they live, dress, and by their appearance."
"I learned that there might be a lot more poverty in Mexico but at least some people are helping to stop or prevent it."
"I've learned that what is different is not wrong."
"I will be more thankful for the things I have and stop worrying about material things because family is more important."
"I know that I'll remember the people and kids I met at the school, the orphanage, La Estacion and especially our party because they taught us that you don't need to speak the same language to have fun. And a smile is universal."
"Things are really different in Mexico but still really good."
"I learned that the people here are a lot richer in family and love and so they don't really care about material items."
"I will remember helping out serving breakfast at La Estacion and seeing the smiles on [the kids'] faces and the big party."
"My world vision is to see countries in peace and to live a nice clean and healthy life."
"I will take home memories of the kids and the people we met."

Afterwards, Teneisha told the group she was, "Very proud of them" and Michelle said that although, "A lot of things about Mexico were sad, we've learned one person can have a real impact. Remember, even with a big problem one or two people's hearts being in the right place can make a big difference." She then cited CCIDD, Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos, and VAMOS!, all organizations started by one or two people that have since expanded and do great work to promote development and understanding.

Michael finds a place for quiet reflection in the botanical gardens

Nyesha, Maya, and Pachan during the final morning reflection

The ENTIRE group: CCIDD volunteers, CCIDD employees, C.E.S.A.R. leaders, and C.E.S.A.R. students in the botanical gardens