Michael Gardner - Hungry for More

Leaving New Orleans last year left me hungry for more. I was Hungry to serve and reach out to the needy. Then I was told we were going back and at that moment, I decided I wanted to go back again.

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"When I am sitting at home, I feel like I'm useless and I'm not making an impact like when we were down in New Orleans. "
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Last year's experience really showed me how much I enjoy helping and serving people. Upon returning home last year, I felt a sense of longing to be with the people in New Orleans. When I am sitting at home, I feel like I'm useless and I'm not making an impact like when we were down in New Orleans. I'm constantly wondering how the families are doing that we helped last year.

I was asked to write a poem in English class this year and it was supposed to be about a moving experience. So, I decided to write about my trip to New Orleans last summer. I really put my emotions down on the paper when I wrote it. The poem was filled with anger, anxiety, sympathy and judgment. That was one of the moments during the past year when I wanted to be in New Orleans the most. I am worried about being useful to the team and not being a hindrance to the leaders. I don't have any elaborate explanation for why I would like to go to New Orleans this summer other than wanting to serve other people and make a difference.

- Michael Gardner, grade 11