I want to thank you gratefully for giving me opportunity to attend this trip. Outward Bound helped me in becoming a better person and learning things that if it were not for this amazing experience I wouldn’t have. During my trip I learned how to canoe and many values. Living with thirteen strangers made me realize for example that people are all different and come from different backgrounds. No one should be judgmental. If we would just have respect for others this world would be a better place. I was also able to stand up for my beliefs and myself and get out of my “comfort zone”. I now appreciate life and all that revolves around us: food, animals, plants, peoples, family, even a toilet.

The people here are beautiful people. I would never forget this experience and lucky are the ones chosen to take on the journey next. It was truly awesome. Even though during it I sometimes felt like quitting, I knew either way I had to finish with the group and so I took my negatives thoughts and “threw them out”. I became mentally stronger and knew the good feeling would come afterwards. My crewmates helped me stay strong. I learned a lot about them. I’ve become a less limited person, mentally stronger, emotionally and physically capable of handeling myself. I thank you again and encourage you to continue sponsoring other needing kids. This trip would defiantly positively change their lives.


Lydiani Oquendo