Worth it?

It took an incredible amount of work to make this Cambodian experience happen. Beyond the initial conception, there was the fundraising, the recruitment of students, reassuring parents, trip logistics and school documentation work---and that was all BEFORE the trip. On the road and in the air student management issues were magnified, transportation coordination a challenge, logistical flexibility a necessity and health concerns attended. Through all the obstacles an underlying question begs to be answered, "Is it worth it?"

With the hardships and challenges recognized, my resounding answer to this question is, "YES, indeed!"

Half of the participating students had never been out of the U.S. None of them had ever experienced what life is truly like in a developing country. None of us had ever been so close to genocide, where scars remain. During our experience we stayed with common Cambodians both in the city and countryside; families that are on the brink of having their entire apartment building razed to rural families with no understanding of what is meant by "email" and have no address in which to receive a postcard.

We deeply connected with a country rich in the arts and full of tradition. Where music, dance, and symbols have been woven into daily life for over 1000 years. The long, long history and traditions is something unfathomable to most of Americans and certainly struck us that we are in the nascent stages of establishing our own "American" legacies.

I'm deeply appreciative of the parents of these students who entrusted Jeff and myself with their precious life extensions. Also, Northpoint Academy, led by Geneva Saint-Amour should be commended for supporting and promoting international travel. I appreciate our hosts in Cambodia, in particular the staff and families of Cambodian Living Arts, specifically Phloeun, Seng, Charley, and Arn. I'm indebted to my co-travel partner and instigator of this adventure Jeff Dyer. A phenomenal teacher, leader, musician and friend who's vision for future Cambodia and international travel burns brightly. Finally, I'm thankful for such a fantastic spouse and family that tolerates my penchant for this work and cheered the adventures throughout.

I hope more of you that read this blog can be a part, in some way, of making international student travel a reality for more young people. The experience is worth every dime raised, minute of sleep lost, and inconveniences tolerated. Who knows how much lives have been impacted, but there is no doubt that the trajectory for all twelve of us has been altered; skewed towards deeper understanding, appreciation, tolerance and love. Awkun charan!

-David DenHartog

P.S.

Stay tuned for a couple more blog posts. We are now all back home safe and sound with tales to tell.