By Caroline A.
The first homestay of the Thailand trip this year was truly an unforgettable experience. Having the opportunity to be welcomed into the peoples homes and living as a member of the community opened my eyes to Thai culture. I stayed in a home with my grandma, parents, and two sisters and although i wasn’t able to communicate with them through language, we were able to connect through meals and the love they showed me. My sisters and I would play with toys after they finished their homework. Since I couldn’t talk with them I taught one of them a handshake I learned when I was her age. When we would go to family outings, they were always there to support me and offer me comfort, like when I got nervous for the dance performance, my sisters were there to hold my hands. And if I were ever in a situation where I might feel frustrated because it was difficult to communicate, my mom would always be there to offer a smile and a hug. The love they showed me in such a short amount of time was something I will always remember and cherish. 
