Lantern Hill is a CA based 501C(3) Non-Profit Organization
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Featured Servant Story:
Emma Stewart,16
On the very first night I spent in Ensenada, Mexico, I remember JJ telling us not to think of our time there as a ‘mission trip.’ Instead, we should think of it as a ‘servant experience,’ because we would not only be helping others, we would be learning from them. Nothing could have prepared me for the countless ways in which the people of Ensenada, both adults and kids, touched my heart. I was blown away by their constant smiles, in spite of their situation, and the ways in which they were constantly giving in any way that they could. I've been asked to share a story that greatly touched me because of the way a woman reached out to me, even though she had very little to give.
Lantern Hill is located 98 miles from San Diego, CA, Lantern Hill partners with communities in need helping educate, feed and care for children and families through our various programs, educational opportunities and servant experiences.
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Feeding program: Colonia 89 Elementary School 6/8/2011
Emily Lansverk : Why did you give up a week of your summer?
Near the end of the trip, our group spent an afternoon at La Bufadora, ultimately, to get happily ripped off on purses and souvenirs, and eat way too much really good food. One of the vendors JJ recommended was Maria, so my friends and I made our way over to her booth to look through her handcrafted jewelry and purses. All of my friends will tell you that I never stop talking, so striking up a conversation with Maria was only normal. We talked while I looked through her bracelets, and eventually picked one out. I was reluctant to buy it (I'm a cheap American, what can I say), and Maria could tell, but in the end I ended up getting it, perhaps because I was beginning to like Maria so much. My friends had already left, so I took the bracelet and followed after them. As I began to walk away, Maria grabbed my arm and pulled me back. Before I could react, she slipped a beaded bracelet onto my wrist. I asked if it was free, and she nodded ‘yes’ with a smile. At a loss for something to say, I pulled Maria in for a hug. Later that night, while I was putting away my purchases, I found that I couldn't bring myself to take the bracelet off. I decided that I would keep it on, even after I returned home, as a reminder of everything I have experienced and learned during my servant experience. The bracelet is a simple one, made from just white and brown beads, but the gift meant more to me than Maria probably realizes. I know it’s only worth a dollar or two, but to me, it’s a symbol of Maria’s compassion and kind heart. She didn't have to pull me back that day; she didn't have to slide that bracelet onto my wrist- but she did, even when she had every right to be the one asking for help, instead of the one giving it. It amazed me how much she must be willing to give to others, when it really should be us giving to her. I'm the missionary, right? But that afternoon, as Maria slipped the bracelet onto my wrist, our roles were reversed.