Today we went to “Strawberry Fields” in the parish of St. Mary. Strawberry Fields was founded in the early 1970’s and became a popular camping and cottage get-away. It was named after the popular Beatles song “Strawberry Fields Forever” and drew people from all over the world. We went to one of the two private beaches on the estate, and enjoyed crystal clear water.
Upon arrival, I went straight to the beach and jumped in the water along with everyone else. As I looked around me, I saw only smiling faces and joyful laughter. The sky was as blue as the sea, and the air was cleaner than any I had ever felt. It was almost paradise-like and I felt like an angel! The water was cool and refreshing. I swam out from the beach and went deeper into the ocean, but soon returned because it was getting too deep. As I swam, the only thing I could think about was how lucky I was to be here in this beautiful country with this wonderful group doing these amazing things. Spending time away from home makes one cherish it much more than he does when he is there, and makes one appreciate the small things in life. As I swam I felt this water was somehow cleansing me, and when I got out I felt completely replenished as though I had taken some type of renewing shower.
Through the renewal, I learned to truly appreciate the things I have. As I enjoyed this beautiful outing the Bennetts provided for us, I was reminded of how thankful I am of everything in my life. Our day trip to Strawberry Fields allowed me some personal time to reflect on this trip and how I have changed since our arrival to Jamaica. I have grown for the better, in a more positive way. I am more open to trying new activities, more thankful for the everything I have, and much more globally aware.
While reflecting, I also thought of one moment in particular that was especially powerful. When in the Blue Mountains and staying with my host family, we were eating dinner. After we finished our meal, I still had one very small piece of chicken that was mostly fat that I didn’t eat. The child in our host family, Nacquane, asked if he could have it. I originally thought nothing of it because I am so used to leaving food on my plate at home. I gave it to him and he ate it speedily and gratefully. This opened me up. That incident was a real turning point for me on this trip. Now, I always finish everything on my plate.
Muhammad, 16, McKinley Technology High School