Changed

Its funny how times fly. It has only been five days since I left Nashville yet it feels like months. I remember being part of Team Bravo, painting besides Rosie, Kayla, and Nasya, and meeting the home owners Dixie and Jim. I remember feeling so accomplished knowing that I helped make a house a home for two deserving individuals who have suffered far too much in their lives. I remember making new friends like Alexis S. and actually getting to know Nakita on a whole new level.

In a matter of five days I’ve made memories and friendships that I will always keep dear to my heart.

Now that I am back in familiar surroundings I feel kind of lost and sad. Then I think "Wait, isn’t this the season to be jolly?" Yet somehow this happiness eludes me. I feel as if five days isn’t enough. I wish I could have stayed in Nashville till Dixie and Jim’s home was complete. But I wouldn’t be satisfied with that because I would be ready for the next house, then the next.

I’m saddened because the people who I have known the longest barely know me at all compared to the people who have known me for a few months or even a few days. I’m sad because some people will not be able to experience the joy I felt giving someone new hope, letting them know this too shall pass.

One thing I never take for granted are the friendships I’ve made and new insights theses services trips have given me. If it weren’t for these trips I wouldn’t be the person I am today. If it weren’t for Heidi I wouldn’t be who I am today.

Mark Twain once said "To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with." I’m blessed to say I’ve found this joy with my CAUSE family family.

-Vanissa Benjamin