Counting Our Blessings

On Friday, July 7th, I had the privilege of meeting for the first time in real life with Paving the Way for the Future sponsee Keydiann Sampson (17), her little sister, and her parents, Mrs. and Mr. Sampson. While driving through St. Elizabeth, Jamaica's lush mountains and vegetation, I was excited to meet my sponsee.

I found myself constantly looking through the gifts I brought to see if she would like them and peeking through the van window to see if I could spot the slender teal and yellow building of Lewisville High School. As my family and I arrived and walked through the shimmering gates of the school, I felt a sudden burst of excitement, and my anxiousness soon relaxed. Although the school was closed for the summer, the building felt as lively as ever. The boisterous palm trees lulled in the wind, and nearby market noise could be heard.

As I continued my walk, I could spot four figures waving out to me: Keydiann and her family. Meeting Keydiann and her family was indeed a wonderful experience. After greeting her family, Keydiann and I talked privately, and she confided in me about her dreams for after she graduates and how the school year has gone for her. I was then taken to meet with Principal Duken Williams, who voiced his appreciation and gratitude and discussed some of the school's struggles. These include but are not limited to a lack of running water, electronic devices, and students struggling with hygiene and gaining access to breakfast and lunch due to poverty.

After having a thorough and heartfelt conversation and a campus tour with Principal Williams, it was time to say our goodbyes. I concluded my stay at Lewisville High School by speaking to Keydiann and her family and giving them gifts as tokens of our appreciation. As I settled into the van and pressed my face into the window to watch as we moved farther away from the teal and yellow building, I counted my blessings. After seeing and hearing the struggles of the school and some of the students attending Lewisville, I felt myself reflecting and being grateful for my school and my parents, who provide the resources I have in my life, which many are not fortunate enough to have. This experience opened my eyes, and I couldn't be more grateful to have experienced it. I cannot wait to go back!