Truly Learning Appreciation Through Solo Traveling

This is me, Karla, back in India sharing memorable moments with unforgettable kids. Being part of a community that gave me so much without asking for nothing in return. I left my home about 3 years ago because like everyone now a days I wanted to travel, get to know the world. With no research done and basically no planning, I decided to embark in what, as of today, has taught me the most in life in a way I can't fully express. Before this trip I was an insecure, full of anxiety, non-appreciateable, maybe even stubborn girl. It hurts as I write it, and I never thought of myself that way until after I came back from this trip. In India, I dedicated my time to volunteering in a community after school program. I was teaching English to kids of low income families. This kids would sometimes show up with no clothes other than their undies, others with no lunch but still always with a smile. They always got to the classroom eager to learn and have fun. That was when I realized what I was truly doing there, I began to understand what was happening. I was not teaching them English, I was giving my time, attention and love to this kids. I was being taught to care for others before caring for myself. To love and give without waiting for anything in return. More importantly, to appreciate. By this I don't mean anything that has to do with money but rather time, people, and love. India was a beautiful experience that will forever stay in my heart. 

This is me now, with my family. From left to right they are: my older brother, my mom, little sister, my dad and then me. Today, I'm a girl that has learned and keeps on learning to appreciate the most important things in life. Family is my number one priority. I have learned to appreciate time, to give it only to people and things that truly matter. I have learned that it's not just about giving your time to someone but actually giving them my attention, my respect and everything they can possibly need of me. I learned that when you truly appreciate someone you give them all and you do it with no effort and with no expectation of receiving anything in return. 

I hope I can continue to grow and learn things without never forgetting the things in life that are appreciated the most, without forgetting to be appreciative of everyone and every single thing in life.