What a Beautiful Thing

I was observing my 3^rd Mission Training workshop today when Dr. Ruben Ayala made me remember something very important. While addressing the MTW participants about cultural sensitivity he stated, “Obviously we all have many differences, but what is most beautiful are the things we have in common.” How true that is in the world of Operation Smile Student Programs. Student Program’s goal, especially during ISLC, is to bring out the parts of students that will help them connect to other students so that together, they can make an even bigger difference. By coming to the conference everyone already shows that they are passionate, driven, leaders who want to become more dedicated to making a change.  I actually wish there more places where we could put more young, brilliant minds in one area and get even more of their energy and ideas out into the world; and this is why. There always comes this moment at Mission Training and at ISLC when it suddenly no longer matters if you are from America, Ireland, Paraguay, India, or any of the 24 countries being represented this coming week. All of the participants seem to find a group of people who become their best friends even though 3 days ago they were strangers. Its all because they share an instant and unbelievably strong connection. This connection is formed from everyone’s “a-ha!” moment during the conference when they realize that every single person can make a difference starting now. In addition to being inspired by the guest speakers and their peer leaders, they start to inspire each other. Together, they put into action thoughts and ideas that the average person doesn’t dream they could do. Suddenly, students don’t group themselves by country, school, gender, or age, but see themselves as one powerful group of like-minded students who despite anyone who may have told them that they can’t, are on a mission to change forever. And Like Dr. Ayala said, that is a very beautiful thing.