A truly humbling, unforgettable experience

As a volunteer during my time in Nepal, I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the real Nepal and meet some wonderful children at the Umbrella Foundation in Swayambhu. I was a volunteer in a children’s home – children who had been rescued from corrupt and abusive homes and were being reunited with their families. It was incredible to be a part of that – a truly humbling, unforgettable experience. To describe it is beyond my descriptive prowess but I’ll try. It was amazing. I did not waste a single second. The kids are incredible - they are so full of life, determination and happiness. These kids have been through pain I can’t even imagine, some have lost their families, been trafficked, abandoned, left to starve, sold into slavery, run away from abuse and forced labour but despite all this, they carry on with a surprisingly positive attitude and unbeatable spirit. The only thing these kids want to know is that someone cares about them, that they are not forgotten and that the people they care about are looked after and have a normal life. They are incredibly grateful for what little they have and they don't dwell on the pain in their past. They inspire happiness in others - whenever I felt a touch of home sickness or in any way down, I'd be told “Brother, don't be sad, be happy”.