"Traveling to Newry"

Traveling to Newry for a clinical site visit, felt like I was being trained for the Hunger Games. In this one week in Ireland, I've pushed myself physically, emotionally and spiritually more than I've ever though possible. My limbs are a bit sore in my thighs and arms from being constantly on the move with our packed course schedule nevertheless, I still march on strong. Last night a drunk guy was banging on our door repeatedly until I hopped out of bed making my way downstairs to the front door. The noise stopped immediately as I yelled from behind the door, but then started up again once I got back to the room. Opening the window as the cold air came in, I yelled Knock it off dummy!" My roommates who were awake had a good laugh about it with our sleepy stress. but I sadly missed out on some needed good rest for this long journey today. The more I write within my journal on the bus ride, I feel my senses are coming awake and I'm regaining strength in my limbs for the long walk ahead to the center. I am feeling more relaxed.

1:10 PM

Each day I fall more in love with the Irish culture and the hospitality shown to us. The day-care residents at the health clinic on Drumlane Road would look eagerly in our direction to spend time with them for the day. I could not help but feel welcomed as they reached out to shake our hands, asked what our names were, and where we were from. I was still trying to put names to faces as best I could painting with Ms. Gwen, a visual artist, and the other residents. In many ways, the people I’ve interacted with so far in Ireland is what motivates me on this service learning trip. Looking at my peers around the table and Ms. Gwen gluing on the tissue shaped flowers, I simply smile. The creative light bulbs are flickering brighter and brighter.