I See Progress Every Year

Every year that I come down here, I get this feeling of rejuvenation. New Orleans is an amazing place. Despite the hardships the had stricken the place, I feel that this group of students made a difference and slowly turned that place into a much brighter city. I am happy and honored to have been a part of this group of students.

I wrote a poem to commemorate the experience.

It is called "Progression Is Change (Take a P.I.C.)":

The place we visit now,

is the place we engrave our memories.

Or shall I say remembrance?

To honor the rich history that has been bestowed on this soil.

We need to rejoice in it,

despite the misfortunes that had smitten it.

So when we remember those who have battled . . .

Ravine

Fires

Floods

Hurricanes --

We remember that as heroes --

The ones who held the burdens of those who couldn't.

The bridges we build now,

are the connections we keep forever.

Because we create friendships, companionship, and fruitful memories.

We think back on the times that made us smile.

We think of the struggles we've overcame,

and we realize that we weren't alone during those trials.

Take a look around you . . . take a picture.

The ones who influence you now,

are the ones who shape the way you are.

Just like this city, whose multiple influences

made it what it is today.

Don't take that for granted!

We've been through many battles,

fought through many fights,

and look into our companion's eyes - -

knowing that they've been through the same.

The progress we've made today is the change we carry for a lifetime.

Progression is change.

Change is progression.