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This being my (Eric) first trip to Cambodia, I felt it appropriate to name the title much like my expectations for the trip. Generic and blank.
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As my teammates are starting to realize, my method of preparing is to overprepare and pack to be ready for any scenario. Upon further reflection, I believe I do this for two main reasons: One, it's a way of trying to control situations I cannot predict or control. Two, knowing my own limitations, it's a way of both pulling my own weight and being able to support others with health, understanding, and provision.
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Flashforward to present circumstance. Day 6 of the grx cambodia trip. I'm still recovering from some infection/flu, was able to rejoin the team after sleeping all yesterday. Very thankful to be energic and able to be out with the team, spending time with the kids/teens at New Hope, and we also visited International Justice Missions to hear about their vision and work in this country.

One neat thing I've learned about NGOs, is that they add a very passionate yet purposeful vocation for those searching for a calling. For those unable or unwilling to stay at home, my previous two areas I lumped people into was the travelers and the expats. Travelers just travel, and expats want to experience the whole world in all it's glory. But now there's this NGO area that I'm aware of. Some religious, some secular, and it seems like quite a few Christian. They are the front line soldiers fighting for noble ideas, justice, truth, and fairness. I find the idea fascinating for capable/young professionals. Although I'm sure any age group could do it, I believe the easiest/best fit would be that group.
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Cambodia is a beautiful country, full of color and life. Yet this beauty is marred by lingering shadows of sin. A sin that occured and I know I am capable of, that we all are capable of. Furthermore, a sin that we knew as a people and a country and did nothing. How does that speak to your legacy, America?

Yet hope remains. I see it in the stories of those here. Who choose hope and joy when they would not be faulted for choosing otherwise. Instead of complaining and blameshifting, they thank God for every blessing received, and want to give their lives in appreciation. Part of me is too jaded to believe it's true, but I'd like to hope this kind of pure faith still exists. And when I shake their gentle hands and warm hearts, and see their smiles, I am encouraged.