United Way Alternative Spring Break sponsored by Deloitte

This experience has been life changing for so many people here. I have seen many participants come out of their shell and learn important lesson about themselves. The picture sums up the recovery here in Mississippi. A Florida artist has carved the dolphin out of a dead tree that was left after Hurricane Katrina. All along the beach there are these beautiful sculptures made out of something that would of just ended up in a dumpster. The residnets know how to turn such a tragic event into a life of hope, love, strength, and courage. They are truly inspiring and you cannot help but be humbled by the stories here.

They say that Mississippi is the hospitality state and I do not doubt it. I have not met one resident of the Gulf COast that is not sweet to the core and generous. The United Way of SOuth Mississippi has bent over backwards to make sure that each student has the best experience. Their love for a group of 75 strangers is amazing. In one week we have become an extended family sharing a week that cannot be described.

No matter how many entries I post about this past week, you cannot understand the power behind ASB unless you come. Spring break may last a week but ASB lasts a lifetime. I hope that when everyone leaves tomorrow they remember this experience and the strength that one person can have. If anyone ever doubts the character of this generation, send them to ASB and let them see just what we can do. If anyone ever has doubts about the beauty of a group of people send them here and they will never doubt again.