Every Light is allowed to Switch Off

Young men,

I want to start by sincerely thanking each of you for the immense courage you have demonstrated. Not just 'courage' as a term synonymous with bravery, that being to travel and become immersed in such a foreign setting, but more importantly 'courage' in the true origin of the word, described as being willing to share yourself with your wholeheart. Your blogs have been scribed with a genuineness and authenticity that has been raw/heart-wrenching/humorous/uplifting. 

At 15, 16, 17 or 18 years of age, in many ways each of you are only just embarking on a lifetime of wonderful experiences and successes, coupled with inevitable trials & tribulations. I hope India sits under your skin and guides you to continue to seek out human connection; to be comfortable with being vulnerable; to continue to show love and be willing to learn/understand (even when others many not do so in return). 

However, this blog is not for you boys, for I have communicated with each of you individually via email already. Nor is it for you Shane or Mark- gentlemen, your wise counsel, energy and sacrifice has been incredible and a mere thank you is simply not enough. But please accept the sincere appreciation of all who have gone before for holding the 2017 baton.

However, this post is for you Reuben and Tom.

Now you two will be the first to say that the blogsite is not a forum for affirmation, but I do want to publicly acknowledge each of you.

At 22 years old and after four years of planning you have led this tour. But managing logistics/operations, albeit difficult, can be achieved by super organised people. Far far far more important has been your ability; to create a vibrant group culture, to lead a programme to ensure the meaningful connections with a vast number of organisations in India have been enhanced, to communicate at 1am/2am in the morning to allow those on the other side of the world the ability to travel with you all, to facilitate nightly reflections so that each participant could process a mixture of emotions, and most importantly, to empower young men by your presence/example/advice/thoughtful mentoring. Anyone can learn self-confidence, but to help others grow in confidence, especially in the art of learning to be open and vulnerable, is an uncommon skill- both of you have grown to be outstanding teachers of this life skill.

It is said that experiences grow the boy, and thus the character of the man. Thank you so very much for driving this formative experience, adding another wonderful layer of colourful stitching to the fabric of 22 young men's lives. "Proud of you" is a complete and utter understatement.

As you both personally reflect on your phenomenal contribution, may Archbishop Oscar Romero's resonate with the two of you:

It helps now and then to step back and take the long view . . . we plant the seeds that one day will grow.  We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.  We lay foundations that will need further development . . . we are workers, not master builders, ministers, not messiahs.  We are prophets of a future not our own.

So, truly enjoy the remaining moments in the most magical of countries. And as you complete the final group reflection on 2 January, smile in the knowledge it will be a Tuesday, and talking about the stuff that really matters is simply what we do on Tuesdays.

Finally know that every light is allowed to switch off. Thank you Reuben and Tom for shining so brightly for this outstanding group of young men.

Safe and blessed travels in 2018 and beyond.

Signed, 

just another water carrier.