The last visit to the detention center was definitely bittersweet. Looking back on this experience it’s evident how impactful it was for me. The opportunity to talk with people from different walks of life and hear how difficult their lives have been made me appreciate everything I have. When you go about your everyday normal life it’s easy to get wrapped up in your own world and issues, especially when those around you are dealing with similar things like school. However, talking with people outside of your usual bubble who are dealing with real hard-hitting issues like jail time, family issues, poverty, etc makes you take a step back and realize how good you have it. I will be forever grateful for the amazing life I have knowing how difficult others have it.

It also was impactful hearing how our time at the detention center really helped the kids. I never thought much about how such a simple thing as sharing stories could make a real impact. It felt almost surreal hearing them share what this process has done for them. It’s one thing to discuss how storytelling can connect people but it’s completely another one to actually go out, share those stories, and build a connection yourself. I never would have thought I could have a real relationship with an incarcerated 15-year-old kid from inner city Richmond but through sharing stories I was able to do just that.