Going to Cambodia made me realize how privileged I am here in America. Being half Cambodian, I was only exposed to the culture that was available in the cities near me, and around my family members. I love the food, the music, and the language, but actually going to Cambodia gave me a new outlook on life, and the true realization of the beauty of one’s heritage.

Cambodia, being a third-world country, has many civilians working to make ends meet for them and their families. Witnessing their struggles and their ability to gain happiness through the littlest things made me appreciate the life I had and took for granted. I will always remember the many children who would play in the outskirts of the temples. I noticed how even though they get by on the minimum, they live their lives appreciating everything they have. Witnessing the culture and the ancient Angkor Wat left me in utter amazement, and being in the city made me feel this new type of beauty that I have never really experienced before.

I now long to strive in what I do to my full extent, and I have this new passion to serve and help others in need, for nothing but good comes out of it.