I was startled into consciousness this morning by the sound of Cartoon Network. Momentarily, I forgot where I was. It didn’t take long, though, to remember that I was on the Civil Rights Trip and soon to be leaving for Sunday morning mass. We arrived just in time, even though many of us were very lethargic. The music commenced and like a footprint in the sand, my tiredness washed away. I was hit, entranced, by the power of the harmonies and rhythms I was hearing. The sounds that seemed to fill every corner of that expansive room rang beautifully. The sermon that followed was just as melodious as the music, both in delivery and sentiment. And this time, the room rang with sentiments of love and welcoming. In particular, I was left wondering — and Andrew Young helped me with this formulation — how can we counteract the sickness of serious ignorance? If only those with hatred in their hearts could enter this holy room, I thought, then their ignorance might be washed away, abruptly an
How do I wrap this trip up? Even on the 13-hour bus ride I was still thinking about everything and challenging myself in new ways. This brought the movement alive for me and made it real in the present day. I learned so much and formed so many ideas I’d never realized I could have. I don’t think this will ever leave me and I definitely hope, like the civil rights movement, it won’t end with this first phase, but will keep going. I’m looking forward to implementing all our ideas at Park (look out everyone) and in our broader communities (National Youth March here we come!) I’m going to keep pushing myself. 
The changes I want to see in the world begin with me and I WILL make them. I hope the connections I made on this trip last and grow even stronger. I know I will forever be grateful to the many people who gave me this opportunity. To the chaperones: thank you, thank you, thank you! To the 31 other kids who made this so special, I seriously love you all and you give me hope for our generation. Let’s get out there and take charge! To anyone and everyone who has the option, you should definitely go on the civil rights trip.
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