On the topic of short-term mission trips to developing countries, many people often proclaim, “Is it even worth it?” Many of us Americans like to feel accomplished. We tend to view everything in the sense of a problem that we can solve. People often look at developing countries in a financial aspect. Sometimes the claim is made that Americans spend money in travel expenses that could be better used by just being donated to the population they desire to help. Some people claim that there may just be too many “problems” that can’t be “solved” in the one, two, or three-week long mission trip.
I recently went to Georgetown, Guyana with 12 other students through the campus ministry at my university. Members of our group traveled to various sites such as two local hospitals, a school for children with physical disabilities, rehabilitation centers, an orphanage for girls aging from 6 to 17, and an orphanage for boys aging from 6 to 17. Our goal for the trip was to lend a helping hand wherever was needed, however, I gained more from this experience than I could have ever offered. We were completely immersed in the Guyanese culture. From our very first day in this foreign country, we were welcomed with open arms. Regardless of cultural differences, I never felt more accepted than I did in this country. Some people had so little but were willing to give so much. As we walked around the heart of Georgetown, our group constantly saw bright decorations from the country’s fiftieth year celebration. The people of Guyana had so much love and pride for their country. They wanted us to love their country as much as they did.
Having this experience completely changed my perspective of a service trip. It no longer was about how much “help” I gave, but more about the relationships that I formed. I was blessed to have the time that I spent with each one of the boys at Bosco orphanage. Each and every one of them showed me the true meaning of love and joy. Without relationship, life has no meaning. Sending donations and money can make a positive influence, however, what impact does it have on the donor? The experience of being emerged into a new culture and building relationships with the people showed me that there are different ways to live life than the fast-paced race to the top American way. When returning to the United States, I was asked if it was good to be home. My response was that I would return to Guyana the next chance that I had. They said, “You would want to live in a country that is so developmentally behind us?” Living in this country for 17 days, I learned so much about sacrifice, love, acceptance, pride, and beauty. I learned more than I could have ever taught. I received more than I could have ever given. I realized this country did not need my help. I needed this country’s help. I needed to be reminded of the true meanings of life. For those that claim short-term mission trips are not worth it, I say that perspective means everything.
