Wrap Up...

       It is almost two weeks since I have been home and I can not fully describe everything that continues to go through my head about my trip to India. I do feel blessed to have been able to go. The trip was so educational, emotional, and fun. I would have to say that my favorite part of the trip was the two days we spent at the National Institute for Mental Health and Neuro Science. I was absolutely blown away by the resources they have for individuals and families.  It was not something I can say I see in the states. I was specifically impressed with their inpatient family program. By having that program, it shows how important family dynamic really is in India.

            I took more then one thing away when we visited the AIDS project of World Vision. The women were so empowered and were not ashamed of who they are. They used eachother and the organization as their support. This is something I brought home and tried to teach my clients in addiction. You should not be ashamed of who you were, but proud of who you have become. That was a very emotional day for me, but also brought so much happiness to me.

      The Taj was amazing, but in all honesty I would not have minded another educational visit instead, I know that sounds crazy. This weekend a teacher told me that as Social Workers we need to go outside our comfort zone and think outside the box. That is exactly what I did with this trip and the reasons I went. It was a life changing experience and I know it has changed me. 

            This trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am so thankful to Marywood University, Dr. Lyter, and Dr. Raj for giving me the opportunity to take part in the trip. I feel I changed in some ways by going to India and it will help mold me into a better person. I am already thinking about where I can go next and who I can help when I go. If anyone ever gets the opportunity to take a trip like I did, take it and run with it, and do not look back. Yes, the flights were long, and it was hot, and there were bugs, but there are so much more positives that you will experience. 

I also want to thank all my friends and family that were so supportive while I was planning and while I was gone. I truly have some special people in my life.

xoxo

Ashely