When you want to change the world, let the world change you. This is what happens when you put two words together, Volunteering and Touring= Volun-tour. Our first stop is at the Widhya Asih IV Orphanage just outside of the capitol of Bali, Denpasar. We get off the bus and step into the hot and humid weather, greeted by Bali girls whom call this orphanage home. Many have families; but, the families are unable to care for or support their children in the poverty conditions here in Bali. The girls are cheerful and open to receiving hugs and time. We are fed what they eat, tempeh, rice, a boiled egg and water for lunch. Some of the girls speak very good English, Anggun reminds me repeatedly that Justin Beiber is her boyfriend and she is in love with Justin Beiber, if he only knew the admiration that was here for him! Many of the girls do not speak English. Communication consists of smiles, gestures, games and song. In the end we are all communicating the same human need, love and connection.
Girls bunk in rooms of four, with little air circulation. They are so excited to show us their rooms. The orphanage is clean and welcoming, the staff incredibly giving and friendly. We play games and then take turns performing our songs and they perform their songs and dances for us. Pure joy fills the room for the next hour. As we leave we sing, “I want to be your friend a little bit more”, on our way to our bus. We will see these girls for a pool party at our hotel next week.
So what is the difference between vacationing and Volun-touring? You come to this place one person and you leave incredibly changed and in awe that such joy can be found regardless of conditions of life. You fully see and feel the culture, not just the tourist hot spots dotted with shops and activities. You experience a sense of immense gratitude for the conditions in your own life. What once seemed stressful becomes minimal and unimportant in the grand scheme of things.
www.balifund.org
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