The Importance Of Serving The Tolupon

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As a University of North Carolina student, the Carolina community will learn from me why it is important to serve. My definition of the word “SERVE” is to Support, Encourage, Reach, Value and Evolve. For the last three years during spring break, I have served the Tolupan Indian tribe in the Honduran mountains. As part of this experience, I have supported the Tolupon by sharing the love of Christ and providing necessary supplies, food and medical services. To encourage members of the village, I took school supplies, toys and clothing to the Tolupon children. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the men and women and to hear the children laugh as they receive toys and clothes has been rewarding and helps me realize I have made a difference in their lives.

While in Honduras, I assisted physicians while they performed minor surgical procedures such as removing tumors, tapeworms, and by giving vaccinations.

During my last visit, I assisted a young girl who had a horrible infection in her leg. While the doctors cleaned her leg, I prayed and kept her calm by talking to her. When other patients visited the clinic, I held their hands while their teeth were being cleaned or cuts were being bandaged. Throughout the years, I have built many relationships with the children in Honduras. Each year when I arrive, my friends Santos and Jocelyn run and jump into the truck because they know I am there to help them. They always show me a toy or clothes I brought the previous year. Their happiness is evidence that my actions have had a positive impact and added value to their lives. Mission work has demonstrated to me the importance of valuing and helping others and has given me a great sense of purpose and appreciation for my

blessings.
In the years since I began going to Honduras, I have witnessed the progress that has been made. Each year, more people come for ministry, medical help and supplies. What began as outreach to the Tolupon has now spread to other villages. This assistance has helped them evolve into a more welcoming and trusting community. The Tolupon are no longer afraid, and they do not consider me to be a stranger. Through serving, I have helped myself as well. I have gained a greater awareness of the world around me and a desire to help enrich the lives of others. Mission work in Honduras is not a vacation, but I cannot think of a better way to spend my spring breaks. Not only have I made a connection with members of the Tolupon tribe, but I also share a bond with all of the other members of my mission team. As a UNC student, I will encourage the Carolina community to look for ways to make a difference in the lives of others and to learn that through outreach and community support, the world can be a better place.