AFS Paraguay

Through Summer Search, a nation wide mentor program, I was able to stay with a host family in Asuncion, Paraguay during the summer of my junior year. Throughout my stay, I developed a new perspective on family — I found myself studying the relationships between the members of my host family and comparing them to those of my own. Since a great majority of the population of Asuncion was raised with the same culture and traditions, I noticed that there was a general consensus when it came to personal values: family always came first. In contrast, while my own family maintains healthy relationships, we are all independent — dedicated to furthering our own lives. My experience in Paraguay has served as a wake up call to reevaluate the quality of the time I spend with my family.

While it’s easy to get lost in school, in a career, or in money, my host family found an ideal balance, which is something I admire. My host father was a lawyer, and my host mother worked as the vice president for an insurance company. Despite their important positions and robust work schedule, they were always home in time to enjoy dinner together. I took note that my host family prioritized spending time with each other, not only to support one another in their aspirations, but also to relieve the day’s stress; they enjoy each other's company because there is no judgement or envy amongst them, only acceptance and compassion. This trip reignited the value I place upon family; however, within my own, while the same intimacy is present, the time is not. We are not accustomed to eating together, nor are we accustomed to setting time aside to have a conversation, but this can and will change. I have a newfound respect for prioritizing family, one that will continue throughout my life.

I want to be able to not only make time for family, but to work together and keep each other motivated and ambitious. My host family serves as a model, because of them, I now understand why family deserves to be a priority. The importance of family is endless; my family is my security, my guidance, my identity, my love. I earnestly believe that life is not a matter of money, but rather the company you keep.