Ripples of Difference

The word Amazing is overused ad nauseam. But that is the only way to describe this read, Amazing!

Global Volunteer Network has released a FREE e-book celebrating their volunteers with stories from around the globe. Each chapter of the book features one volunteer and their journey, and ends with an update of their far reaching "ripple". The introduction gives you a little background on the GVN founder, Colin Salisbury, and his project. Though the content is of the raw, poverty-stricken conditions that two thirds of the world lives, the stories are entertaining and sincerely written. With lovely photos and a clean layout, this is something I think my blog readers would be interested in reading.

We are all aware of our world's struggles. Such as the aftermath of natural disasters like the 2004 Indonesian tsunami, the brutal fight for survival of war refugees in camps, global crimes against women, orphaned infants who will never know their given names, and the threats to public health such as HIV/AIDS. But did you know about the children needing underwear in Africa (can you imagine any need more basic?), or that many people work and study in derelict buildings and educational facilities across remote areas of the world, and there are children being treated by witch doctors with hot pokers to banish demons? Is there any medical treatment more antiquated than a witch doctor banishing demons?

The various mission projects certainly changed the lives of all those they touched. Externally and internally. What I found most inspirational was the change it made within the volunteers themselves. Introducing foreign concepts such as simplicity of life (something not valued by many here in the U.S.), gratitude and perseverance, and the importance of community bonds.

My favorite line is in the first sentence of the dedication: A successful project is never the result of one-person endeavors. Never. It takes a team. A noteworthy second is a quote from Hannah, the artist, who learned humanity was paramount and said, "The thing that strikes me the most about volunteering is that once you do it, you can never walk away. You're inevitably tied to a place, a people...their stories take root somewhere deep within and you never forget." This seems to be the case for all the volunteers. The impact of the GVN experience changes the way one lives the rest of his/her life ... with more patience, awareness and a "can-do" attitude.

To download a copy of Ripples of Difference click here. Go to Global Volunteer Network to find out more. It really is Amazing!