Travel holds a different meaning for everyone. For some, it’s a temporary escape from the pace and pressure of everyday life. For others, it’s an opportunity to check something off a bucket list—or a chance to step outside one’s comfort zone and make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a transatlantic flight, travel has the power to broaden not only our horizons, but our perspective.
One of the most formative travel experiences of my life took place during my senior year of high school, when I had the privilege of joining a volunteer team traveling to the Dominican Republic. Our group—made up of classmates, teachers, and community members—set out with a shared purpose: to engage with the people of Santo Domingo, listen to their stories, and offer our time, energy, and resources in support of their community.
As I packed for the trip, I made sure to bring the basics: sunscreen, hand sanitizer, a bag for laundry, and a few changes of clothes. But on the drive to the airport, someone shared a piece of advice that stuck with me: “Don’t forget to pack an open mind—one that truly sees, and ears that genuinely hear.” Amid the excitement (and a little stress) of preparing for international travel, it was a powerful reminder that the most important part of any trip isn’t what we carry in our bags—it’s what we carry in our mindset.
The 5.5-hour flight from Columbus, Ohio, to Santo Domingo was smooth, and thankfully, no luggage was lost. After arriving and gathering our belongings, we loaded into trucks and made the short journey to a nearby village. Although the drive lasted only about 45 minutes, the scenery made a lasting impression—lush, vibrant, and rich with cultural history. It quickly became clear that we were entering a community filled with both natural beauty and complex challenges.
Once settled, we had the opportunity to meet a wide variety of people: business owners, teachers, students, government officials, and community advocates. Each person welcomed us with warmth and openness, generously sharing their experiences.
One of the most pressing issues raised by local residents was the lack of clean drinking water and access to safe, permanent housing. Many homes had makeshift roofs constructed from tarps, and rainwater was collected in containers for daily use. Witnessing these conditions was heartbreaking. And yet, the resilience, kindness, and joy of the people we met were unforgettable. Their positive outlook, despite the challenges they faced, was one of the most humbling and inspiring aspects of the trip.
Now, years later, as my wife and I call Knoxville home and continue to travel elsewhere, I often reflect on the lessons I learned in Santo Domingo. It’s easy—especially in a place as fast-paced and comfortable as the United States—to get frustrated with things like slow Wi-Fi, a long drive-thru line, or traffic during rush hour. But in the grand scheme of life, do those things really matter?
I suppose the answer depends on who you ask—and where you’ve had the privilege to travel.
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