So I've been running around DC for a couple of weeks now. I have seen many places and met different people. I am growing accustomed to the ebb and flow of the world around me, yet I haven't grown complacent - instead I am being continually challenged.
At my internship I am mainly conducting research on a computer, 8-hour work days staring at a screen. How could this be interesting to me? I am often asked that, and sometimes ask myself as well. I think it all goes back to the vision and goal of my work. I want to make a difference in the lives of others, especially those who have been exploited because of situations beyond their control. This and my love for people motivates me, keeps me going when others would just walk away.
Why am I here working for this organization? What is all of this work for and who will it benefit? By doing my research on national legislation and practices of countries around the world on internet-facilitated child sex trafficking, I am providing the tools necessary to educate and empower those who can help the children who have been pulled into these horrible situations. I am a part of the chain reaction, my work helps others do their part better.
But even on a more egocentric level than that, I am learning so that I can educate others. I often say that while I can't stop human trafficking alone, in the words of a dear friend - it takes an army. Even so, I can do something and I must do it. I must give of my talents when I know that they can make a difference.
The other day after work, I was approached by some men around my sisters age and they began talking to me about the necessities of life. I knew pretty quickly into the conversation that they were soliciting people on behalf of an organization that provides assistance to people in developing nations through the monetary sponsorship of children. I also knew pretty quickly that there was no way for me to feasibly do that at this point in my life. But I couldn't interrupt or stop them, because I connected with what motivated them. I understood why they were standing outside in the freezing cold (and wind) to ask people to donate a small amount of their money so that a village could receive a well and children could go to school. It is always great to see that desire to help others in another person.
The city keeps providing me with opportunities to love on other people - some of which I miss, other I don't. But each time, I am learning things and storing them up for the next opportunity to use them. I am excited about what opportunities are arising and the thought that maybe I won't just be another intern that came and left DC making little to no difference in the bigger picture of humanity and our struggle to survive.
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