Individuality in Action

What did you learn on the field experiences that helped you understand Philadelphia better?

When thinking about this question, there were several moments throughout my experience on the Philadelphia Leadership Trip that helped me understand the city. From sightseeing, to food exploring, to encountering the locals, it truly was a combination of experiences that made my view of Philadelphia clearer. One in particular is represented in this handcrafted wood display of Individuality. I love this colorful design, and honestly took the picture to reference one day to make with my future students as an elementary education teacher. However, my curiosity lead me to ask the day’s service project leader, Pastor Wes Tink, more about this artwork hanging in the local church. Pastor Wes responded that this was a project community youth helped make as each individual child was able to paint and design their own portion of their block and then in the end, combine them all into this intriguing art form. Hearing his response, it made me think that one thing very evident, as well as an important element to Philadelphia is its diversity. These simple artwork demonstrated this as I was able to observe several different styles and interests. Our SC Leadership team saw this on a daily basis in the people of Philadelphia, and just like anywhere else, once you are aware of these unique differences, you begin to see the value and cherish them. By the end of my trip, I could definitely tell how the individuality of its people has truly shaped the city in to what it is today!Read more