While in Ghana, I visited an unofficial IDP (internally displaced person) camp. Seeing the poverty firsthand was akin to a cold stream of water splashing over my body. This was a group of people who have fled their homes because of ethnic conflict. Materially speaking, they have NOTHING.

While in the camp, we sang and danced with a large group of kiddos, distributed school supplies, and spoke with the camp leaders. I can’t help but smile at the memory. As I stood listening to the leaders, I felt a small tug on my skirt. It was followed by a giggle. A group of kiddos had gathered and put their hands up to their faces—signaling that they wanted their photo taken. I turned to take a quick shot, and once again children swarmed. Many were clutching their new pencils and markers in their hands, waving them proudly. Their GRATITUDE and JOY is something I will not soon forget.