Semi-Final Thoughts

by Vicki Ip

As we begin the process of deconstructing and reconstructing all the layers and pieces gathered on this trip, this complex puzzle, fabric called Sierra Leone keeps stirring more questions than answers.

When I view the courage and tenacity with which Phebian is fighting her way through an extremely broken country with many broken systems, I am reminded that one person really can contribute a lot to this world even if the task seems mammoth. And, when more than one person comes to the same calling, the impassable diamond mine with barbed wire and electric fences can perhaps one day be conquered.

I thought Barton Street humbled me. Sierra Leone has brought me to my knees. What a beautiful country, with beautiful people trying to emerge from atrocities that humankind has inflicted upon it! Why do these themes keep repeating itself in the developing world, and no less in the "developed" world? How does one stay hopeful and committed to the cause? The cause of loving thy neighbor. The cause of treating others as we would want to be treated. These are simple tenets, but we are far from keeping this life simple. So we keep trying.  People like Phebian, people like you, places like Jericho. We collectively keep fighting the good fight.

The preparation to return home and to stay home will be as important as it was for the journey here. As frustrating and disillusioned one can become, if anything, our spirit has been bolstered, empowered, inspired by all the things that can be done today for a better tomorrow.

We look forward to sharing with all of you soon.