The Begining

I first learned about GVI when I read the book Half the Sky by renowned New York Times Op-Ed columnist Nicholas Kristof. Of all the programs he suggested as ways to help those in need I knew that GVI was right for me. I immediately set about deciding upon a program and location. I came across the program in Kochi and knew that it provided the opportunity to experience a different culture and help kids through education, two ingredients for a worthwhile and life altering journey.

After my first day working with the children I realize that this program was just that, an experience that would forever change my life. After a day of simply getting to know the children and teaching basic grammar you may ask yourself how I can make such a profound statement, but while traveling back to my new home in a TuK-Tuk crammed with newly made friends I found myself envisioning a very new future for myself. One full of the beaming smiles of appreciation I received today from children who were so grateful for the knowledge of prepositions. A future filled with the magnificently captivating culture of India.

And a future full of the internal satisfaction of felling as if you have made a difference in a child’s life, a difference that may help propel that child to the future they have always wanted and deserve. After a first day as fabulous as I have had I know that only more great things are to come, and I have already come to realize that my four weeks here are not enough. So I guess it’s time to start planning on when to come back …..

Bye David Rowley

The Begining