By Aysia Adkins
As we come back and re-enter our lives which we left on May 1st, I’m filled with many impactful memories that have accumulated in just 20 days. It sort of doesn’t feel right to jump back into the flow of everything else as it was before May. This experience with MDS was more than an SST requirement to me. It was an experience that allowed me to open my heart to a new community, Selma, AL, while learning about the impact they had in the Civil Rights Movement. We got to meet the kindest people; sweet southern hospitality is not just an exaggeration. We got to hear their stories, laugh, cry, learn, and be inspired.
One particular woman who left an impact on me was Barbara Barge. We had the honor of getting a Selma tour with her as our guide, after the popped tire ruined our first opportunity. I think we wouldn’t have gotten to meet such an incredible foot soldier like herself if that had not happened. The tour itself was three hours long, and it felt more like a call for our class to continue the fight for civil rights. She spoke with such dignity and strength which called tears to stream down my face almost the whole time. I come back to Goshen with her story and encouragement to get involved!
Coming back, I’m so grateful for the MDS crew, our long-term leaders, our cooks, and our leadership volunteers. Michele WhiteEagle, our project director, particularly left an impact on me. She showed me one of many instances in which I felt unconditional love from people whom I’d just met. I bring that love back with me when interacting with others, from loved ones to strangers.
The Equal Justice Initiative’s Legacy Museum opened my eyes. I had never seen such an immersive museum in my life. It was physically as well as emotionally immersive. There were songs, interview films, holograms, and tears. Many tears came for all of the mixed feelings I had. Tears of grief, sorrow, happiness, hope, and a sense of identity came from the museum. I come back finally being able to understand how I can use my gifts. My voice. My soul singing.
I come back from SST changed. MDS allowed me to take away truly nothing but positive experiences that have changed my view of the world, other people, and myself. I give thanks to Selma, MDS, and everyone I got to meet. I give thanks to my classmates, my leaders, and myself. I give thanks to the love, education, hospitality, reflection, and human connection present on this SST experience.
-Aysia Adkins
