Save the World: Send Your Kids Abroad!
‘Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.’ — Mark Twain
Giggles and loud chatter spilled out of the open door to the laundry room. A warm wind blew the first colored leaves past my feet as I walked in and helped myself to a donut from the giant box.
My housekeeping team had a little party for the J1 exchange students from China who had worked with us for the summer. They were about to return home with memories of black bears, summer guests, American food, movies, and music.
It struck me that these girls would return with a new view of the world and a unique insight into a different culture. During their time away, they found friendship and camaraderie and discovered contrasts and commonalities.
I pondered that one day, they may find themselves explaining, or even defending, their host country when faced with unfair prejudices or hostilities by some in their society.
