Having never done any real community service before, besides the occasional Jingle Bell Run or Leukemia Cup Regatta, I didn’t really know what to expect this week in Visalia. I knew it would be tough work, but I was unaware as to how much the service would really move me. Sure, I had heard from countless people who are involved in non-profits and such that community service is often a very eye-opening and meaningful experience. I had always shrugged off what they had said, figuring “well, that’s just what makes them tick. It’s very unlikely service could affect me in the same way.” Before this week, service had seemed like a chore, just another thing I needed to check off on my college application. Boy was I wrong.

I saw this week not only how important it is to give your time and help others, but also how gratifying, joyous, and refreshing the process can be. Yes, the days we worked were long and sprinkled with moments of both physical and mental exhaustion, but in the end it was so worth it. I am so proud of all the work our group did. We caulked, sawed, and conquered fears of power tools. In 5 days we sided 6 houses. It makes me feel good to know that because of the work we did the families will be able to move into their houses even a little bit sooner.

Not only did I learn a lot about the group’s abilities, (I had no idea we would be such super-siding-machines!), I learned a lot about myself. For one thing, I love the nail gun! Previously, I had always thought of myself as someone who was too scared or weak to use power tools. Not only am I strong enough to use the nail gun and “snapper,” I am strong enough of a person to not call it quits when I really want to. Whether it be forcing myself to get up and go in the morning (with a smile on my face) when I would rather be sleeping in, or fitting in the last piece of the siding puzzle, I was strong enough to block out the tempting suggestions of the sloth sitting on my shoulder saying “well, we could just call it a day.” Prior to this trip, I don’t think I would have ignored him. As I sit in the car driving back to Nevada City, I know I will be forever grateful of not only the journey to Visalia, but to the journey that brought me to a better understanding of who I am, what brings me joy, and that I am capable of things I had never previously imagined. Service is a way to help others overcome hardships, and find a place to establish roots, family, and a sense of belonging. Service brings people home.