Don't you know it's gonna be alright...

I'm feeling almost carried away by the energy in the village these past couple of days. Yesterday afternoon a group of high school students from an American school in Japan arrived to help build a new kitchen for the school here in Kewsua. These kids are a phenomenal bunch, and I am so impressed by their commitment, excitement, and starry-eyed idealism. Their student leader/president of their service organization is a sweet kid named Carson (his name alone was enough to make him an instant favorite) whose future plans include attending Georgetown University next year, joining the Peace Corps, and "changing the world".

It is hard for me to find words to describe what it's like to be here at this time and watch as Stacia's hopes and dreams for this little village start to come to fruition. It is inspiring to say the least. By Thursday, the students at Kewsua school will have a brand new kitchen, much bigger and much more solidly built than it's predecessor. In mid-March, construction will begin on a new dormitory for the children from nearby villages that walk in to school each Monday morning and stay for the week. Soon after, a cafeteria will be completed. All of this was made possible because Stacia showed up here 7 months ago and decided she wanted to help these kids.

Gandhi said, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Stacia is such an incredible example of what can be accomplished when just one person decides to "be the change" and get the ball rolling... the series of fortunate circumstances that have unfolded, and the number of people that have aligned to help accomplish the goals that she set forth is truly amazing. I feel honored and privileged to be here now, to not only witness what is occurring, but to get to be a part of it. You can read more about Stacia's story and motivation and plans here. And while you're at it, check out what my friend Mandy has been up to in India. These girls are fantastic...

And speaking of feeling inspired... here's something else that has me feeling inspired lately. I know I'm a day late, but linking to this in honor of President's Day, and with hope that he's next...