A Blessing :)

I'm not gonna lie--  I was a little anxious about coming on the mission trip this year. I'm an incoming Junior and I've never been on one of these before, so I was afraid of a lot of things: not fitting in with the group, not peforming on the worksite, not feeling any closer to God... But it's a relief to realize how very wrong I was. I've met some amazing people, heard inspiring stories, and felt so much closer to God than I have for a very long time. Although Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans over five years ago, it's still working on coming back together and rebuiliding. A quick glaze over the city would make a person think that it's completely restored, but a closer look has given us a different portrayal. There are still empty lots, destroyed homes, and broken communitites, all just waiting for the push needed to continue to rebuild. I'm so thankful to have gotten the opportunity to work on the houses this week and to have met all of the amazing people who have opened up to us and shared their stories. All of my anxieties leading up to this trip were misplaced as I got closer to everyone on the trip and realized how supportive and hard-working they all are. I can't think of anything better than spending a week with a group of people who are all so focused on helping others and spreading the light of God. This trip has truly been a blessing, and I'm already looking forward to next year!

-Jessica Depies:)