During the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to assist with building shelters. I have enjoyed meeting and working with people from quite a few countries, and especially working with the locals. We have a group of Moroccans who speak English fairly well and are great assets to our build teams. It is wonderful to be able to communicate with the villagers through them, and to learn their local culture and interests. In every town, we are greeted with the same warm hospitality, nearly every shelter we build, the new owner treats us to tea and often a meal. I have come to expect as many as half a dozen meals during the course of a day.

Although the language barrier makes communication somewhat difficult, they clearly express their thanks for our help. I have been reminded time and again that it really is more blessed to give than to receive. I have learned so much in the short time I have been here, and am incredibly grateful for the experience.