Lia Suhn Hao-y

The last class, the last dance moves, the last smiles, the last hugs, and the last goodbye. These all completed the connections I had made with the kids at CPO. I enjoyed being able to understand the people a lot more than I did before I got to Cambodia. I was able to create a strong bond with them, because I was sure they would take me as I was. Every time I saw them I felt accepted. I felt very comfortable around them, and I knew I could be in my own skin. I know that even before I knew their name and before they knew mine I would remain in their heart. The reason I am so intrigued, and feel so welcomed is because they show me their pure self, no details left out. To dancing, or singing without caring what people think or say. Even to try out their English skills on you. That in itself makes me feel important. It makes my heart beat a little faster, my pride stand a little taller, and my smile shine a little brighter. Now, I can always think, I have helped these children have a cleaner, and sustained living environment.

On my first day of labor work, picking up trash was difficult for me. It was smelly, usually ant infested, and there were copious amounts of it everywhere. I knew I had to change my attitude and think how good the result will be. I then realized how capable I was of doing things, when I set my mind to it. As I was helping by not only picking up trash, but then hoeing dirt into buckets, to pour on the muddy ground, so it would be safer to walk in. I thought about something my dad has told me before, “Si se puede, es muy facil, lo voy a hacer.” In other words, “It can be done, it’s very easy, and I will do it.” I repeated these in my head, like a broken record. I felt a lot more accomplished once I told myself I could. Rather than having “guilt” for not reaching my full potential.

Having the same tuk tuk ride every morning never got old to me, because there was always something to new to see, to look at, and to understand. It was the same with their culture, and the people themselves. Curiosity would fill me each time I would meet someone new, or see something like pineapples on string, hanging on the side of the road. A lesson I will gladly take home from the Cambodians would be to have pride in what I have, and always help out no matter what. This is because I am able to work for the people in the country that deserve nothing more than my absolute best.

The final day at the orphanage, I was excited to teach two more classes. I was able to relax myself more, and concentrate on what I was doing. After teaching, we watched a show that the kids had put together. It was very impressive to witness how well they performed, and how they all were talented in their own unique ways. As the day winded down, we all gathered on the stage. One girl, Srey Neath began to read us a letter she wrote, and then translated by an outstanding woman named Meng, whom was our translator. While translating, she explained how much Srey Neath, and the other kids and adults at the orphanage were appreciative of what we had done for them. There was a click that happened within me, as I was listening to them speak that this is what I am meant to be doing. I am supposed to have a part, such as a helping hand to people here and around the world.

Saying goodbye was the hardest thing I had to do on this trip. One little boy, Somnang, really stood out to me since the beginning. He was the first kid to greet me when we started on the 28^th. He loved to see people smile. Whether it was tickling them or drawing them a picture, he had a contagious need for people to feel good about themselves and others around them. To say goodbye to him was like leaving a family member that I would probably never see again. I was crying as I climbed into the last tuk tuk ride from the orphanage to the guest house. He held my hand tightly on the outside of the tuk tuk, and smiled at me with a single tear going down his cheek. He said “Bye, bye!” I said “Knyom s’ro line niet.” (I love you.) He looked at me contently as he responded “I love you.” Then as we drove away, I still remember his little hand waving goodbye. Lia Suhn Hao-y (goodbye) Cambodia.