Youth camp in Vanuatu, 18-25 January 2009
The point of view of Tess, animator
The main aim for me was that we learn to love, understand and respect each other despite the outward differences of culture. Whenever I saw our Australian youth playing or laughing or sharing with our Vanuatu friends I was filled with so much joy. Thanks to every single person who was in our camp – each person brought something so unique and special and it couldn't have been done without each one of us who brought our talents and love to share.
When I remember this week in Vanuatu I see the incredible skies each morning and evening – it was like God communicating to us through the colours and shapes of the clouds. And then when the stars came out we were so amazed at the spread of the Milky Way, we took our beds outside to gaze at the sky for hours.
I also remember the smiles of the angels who cooked for us over open fires in the intense heat of the day, and how they never complained or even rested, because they were so occupied with serving us all the yummy food (stuff that I never imagined would eat – like the bats!!) I think all that I want now is more of the same next time – more of the love, the smiles, the sun and rain and wind, more of the connection between the youth, and the adults and the youth, more of the joy that was so hard to leave behind.
Tess