For the fourth year, we have completed our work here on Paros and our students have left the community with two documentaries concerning some of the wonderful aspects of this island. This year we did one documentary on the farmers of Paros and the importance of agriculture on the island. Our other documentary was about Paros Park- an ecological jewel that may go undiscovered by many people. Hopefully, we have helped shed some light on both subjects that the people of Paros will find both value and enjoyment.
We brought a great group of students this year who learned many things about themselves, about Paros, and about how to work and live together as a team.
One of my friends here on Paros told me recently that every step you take in Greece is a learning experience. His meaning was that the unevenness of the streets that are covered with rocks, and not smooth concrete as in many places, teaches you to pay attention and be aware of your surroundings; therefore every step is a lesson that we must constantly be alert and vigilant as to what’s going on and when you are alert and vigilant, then you learn.
When I come to Paros, for me personally, it is always a learning experience-from all of the small interactions with the warm, friendly people, to the many places I discover every year. I also see our students increase their awareness and their wisdom based on what they’ve learned here on the island in the same way.
Paros has taught us the value of a global community, of working together to make the world a happier, kinder place. We find that we are all the same and wish for the same things. Paros is a good place to be, there is no great threat of violence and people smile easily.
It is always bittersweet to leave Paros- it has a special place in my (and everyone who visits) heart.
Get out of the door and look all around- this is the lesson I have learned.
Until next year Paros!!!
