I recently went to St. Ben's with a few peers from my Leadership for Change Seminar 101 class. As an assignment, we have to write a reflection. I have an article to write; so why not kill two birds with one stone? I don't condone the killing of birds by the way. Back in my high school days (they weren't that long ago considering I'm a freshman), I joined a club where we literally went to soup kitchens every Wednesday and fed the homeless and listened to there stories. Having done that for the past couple of years, I should be used to the new faces and the people asking for seconds or more to drink. But for some reason this time was a little different.

I walked through those doors ready to serve and my heart literally dropped. I just believe that no one should have to depend on others to get what they need. I feel like the world is messed up on so many different levels that some people just don't know how to respond or cope with what is going on. I was on coffee duty. Which meant I walked around with a heavy, huge pitcher full to the top with a hot liquid I though I would drop at any moment had I made the wrong move. Someone asked me for some coffee and it hurt to see someone so young with four kids look so depressed and distraught. I almost cried when she told me what happened to her life. That living off of food stamps and the little money given by the state is harder than it seems. Not being able to provide for your children or give them money for field trips. Little things like toothpaste and soap are hard to get. Not being able to get new clothes or school supplies for the new school year.

I realize that being in college is not only an opportunity but it's something we take for granted. We don't appreciate the things we have or the people we have in our lives. I realized that there are people who took control and said, "I wanna give back to those who can't give to themselves." It is really inspiring to see the world we live in not only welcome those with disabilities, those who are physically, mentally, and emotionally challenged, but to give to those who can't give for themselves. Not everything is as it seems. That girl you laugh at for wearing the same shirt three times a week doesn't have the money to buy a new one. Or that kid who gets excited about lunch doesn't have the opportunity to eat at home. The kid you never see speak or hides behind a fake smile doesn't get the real love and support they deserve. I learned from this experience to never judge a book by its cover. That not everyone has it as easy as I do or even other people I know. That we need to respect other people and welcome them with open arms because we never know what is going o behind the scenes. We never know the real pain behind that smile they show.