For Melissa this is not "goodbye" it's just "see you later"

It's crazy how fast time flies. Weeks ago I was making a "to-see" list and telling myself that there was so much time left and now I've seen and  done almost everything I've wanted to do and the time is winding down.  This weekend was the first of many "lasts" that I'll be experiencing in the near future and I'm caught between sadness and excitement. On the one hand, I've done so many awesome, life changing things and definitely feel accomplished. It’s exciting to know that I can go back to school and share these incredible experiences and continue to advocate for the things I am passionate about. On the other hand I can't bare to leave behind the incredible sunset or the smiling faces of my learners. Cape Town is beautiful. It's magical in a way. When you're feeling down it only takes a glimpse at the mountain or a peek at the sun to remember how lucky you are. Those colors are electrifying! They paint the sky with messages of hope and love and remind me each day how unique and extraordinary my time in Cape Town has been. 

I am heartbroken to leave City Mission Educational Services (CMES). No matter how angry the learners make me when they don't listen they have taught me about resilience and compassion. It'd be lying to say that they didn't inspire me. Each day they teach me something new. I've learned to have patience, to appreciate listening, and most of all to smile more. Their smiles light up a room and I can't believe that I'm going to have to leave that behind when I come home. CMES has been crazy, frustrating and chaotic but it's also been incredible, through provoking, fun, loving, and just right. I have seen the power of a smile and when I smile now I'll be thinking of them!

It's times like these when I am sure that the power of education is something bigger than even I can understand. I know that education opens doors and I can only hope that if my learners took one thing from this relationship it's that they need to stay in school and never lose the drive for learning. They are all great kids! They all can  have amazing opportunities if they dream big. One of my students reminded me today that if you set your mind to something you'll achieve it. That's so true. I have seen the power of determination and I know that it is a force that cannot be contested.  I know this isn't going to be my last time in a classroom. Education is too important.

In between the stress and confusion, I know that City Mission Educational Services was the right place for me.I am smiling now recalling the times of chaos and also the times of love and compassion. Here, I was challenged and appreciated. I loved each moment in the classroom and each outing with the staff reminded me I have a family here. I always know I'll have a place to stay and someone to give me a hug when I come back to South Africa. Today confirmed two things for me: education is the most important privilege I have ever had AND I will definitely be coming back to South Africa one day. 

This journey has been incredible.I know that I will always be thankful for this opportunity. I will never forget the people who changed my life and when I return home I will take these lessons to heart and work always toward making a difference. Therefore, Cape Town, I know for sure, this is not "goodbye" it's just "see you later".

Lindsay, Vara, Erica, Aimee, & Melissa jumping for joy