Before I get into today's experience, let's talk about the housing situation and the sleeping arrangements. First of all, we're staying in Tucker, Georgia which is about 20 minutes away from downtown Atlanta. We're staying in a building which was initially a doctor's office, then turned into a pregnancy crisis center, and finally a safe house.
The place is a bit creepy, there are rooms filled with baby clothes and baby cribs. Of course after understanding the history of the place, we realize what it was used for. However, when we first saw all the baby items, we thought it was pretty creepy.
It's interesting to learn about the history behind the place because initially we have come up with preconceived notions about what happened in this place, what it was used for, etc.
The sleeping arrangements are pretty sub par, but it's alright. We're sleeping on the floor on sleeping bags. Some girls brought blow up mattresses, but I didn't think that far ahead. It's not so bad though. Sleeping on the floor is better for your back.
It kind of amazing seeing the owner of the organization that rents out the housing. He is really passionate about what he does and every time we talk to him, he is always so thankful about us being there. He thanks us for not wanting to party and wanting to serve.
There are only two showers, but there are three bathrooms. There is a kitchen area where we have pretty much taken over.
A group of students from Texas came tonight. There are now at least 20 people staying in this building. It's going to be interesting to see how we can all figure out the timing for using two bathrooms.
So today, we went to explore downtown Atlanta. After we woke up really late, we left for the World of Coke. We got into the tour and the girls seemed to have a really good time. After the tour I got to meet up with my family in Atlanta. We had to do an exchange of goods but other than that it was so much fun. I got to see my nieces and my nephew. We got to play on the playground and run around. I introduced them to my group, but of course they were all really shy. I hope I get to see them again before I leave!
My nieces were so cute, they are always so shy at first but then they get so cute and open! Even with me.
We got to learn about the history of Coca-Cola.
It was cool seeing the World of Coke again. It gave me a different point of vie and experience from last time.
We also got to see some awesome memorabilia of Coca-Cola.
We also got a change to explore the CNN center and Underground Atlanta. It was so cool although I felt like an idiot because I forgot that Underground Atlanta and Little 5 Points were different places. It's ok though, because I talked to Mo and he's going to help me figure out how we can get there. I hope we get a chance to meet up. I hope I get to see a lot of people. I've missed my friends here in Atlanta.
After exploring the CNN center, we tried to walk to the MLK memorial, but that didn't really work out because of how far it was and also because by the time we left it was already closed. It's alright though, we might be able to find out way over there later on in the week. We went back to Centennial Park and relaxed and watched the sunset. We also played a pretty interesting game of truth or dare. We did some random things, but it was fun. I feel like we all bonded a little, however it seems that the girls learned a great deal more about me than they bargained for.
For our reflection activities, we expressed what we hoped to gain from the experience and our work. We also expressed short term goals we had for each day. My short term goal is to listen and learn something about each person we serve. I feel that there is such a huge stigma for these individuals who have these chronic disorders and it just feels wrong. I know I have my own personal stigmas too and my goal overall is to break these stigmas.
We were also asked to write a letter to ourselves. Here is mine:
Dear Aditi,
I hope you get a better understanding of the needs of those who suffer from chronic diseases. I hope your personal stigma and attitudes towards those with chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDs diminishes in order for you to better serve those communities. I hope you take the time to learn about the lives of these individuals as they are people just like you. Do not judge or think ill of those people as they may have poor luck. You are vey lucky and blessed. Working with these individuals should strengthen your sense of appreciation for your own life. Good luck!
<3 Aditi
I hope I reach all my goals and I hope my life is changed, just like my life changed after my ASB experience last year.
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