Over spring break, I had the awesome opportunity to go on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. While there, we worked primarily in a local ministry school, Makarios, and played with the sweetest group of children. Despite the heat and humidity, I quickly learned that materialistic blessings are no match for kindness and genuine relationships. I can’t imagine a better way to spend my spring break than serving others on an incredible mission trip.

1. Love is the best language.

When we landed in the DR, most of our team didn’t speak a word of Spanish. However, as soon as recess began, the language barrier didn’t even matter. In order to impact the lives of the kids and have a great time, no words were necessary—just a lot of piggy-back rides.

2. Contentment doesn’t depend on wealth.

We got the opportunity throughout the trip to visit a few local communities. After meeting the people and getting a glimpse at their simpler ways of life, it was evident that those people didn’t need huge houses or a closet full of clothes to be happy. All they needed was joy and kindness.

3. Everything will work out.

I’m the type of person who likes meticulous schedules and control of every situation. On a mission trip, though, you just have to go with the flow. I quickly learned that worrying over the future is a waste of time and it’s far better to just enjoy the moment.

4. A genuine relationship is priceless.

One of my favorite parts about Makarios was the extraordinary group of missionaries who dedicate their lives daily to the empowerment of the students and families. I was so inspired that each week, the staff visits local communities to build relationships and truly live by example.

5. All you need is love and hope.

Many of the students at Makarios live in difficult situations—some without enough food or clothing on a daily basis. However, by attending this school, they are learning that there is hope for the future. They are loved on each day by their teachers who model a servant’s heart.

6. Patience is a virtue.

After running around with kids on our backs for hours, we were exhausted and restless. As much as those sweet children wore us out, though, we couldn’t help but love on them more and more. Our patience was surely tested, but we came out stronger than ever.

7. There is no greater gift than a smile.

Even when we had no idea what to say or how to say it, a smile never failed to brighten someone’s day. It only takes one mere smile, not even a word, to build a beautiful friendship. That one kind gesture might reach someone much deeper than you could ever know.

8. Prayers change lives.

Every day before breakfast and dinner one person would choose either a Makarios student or staff member to pray for. All of their pictures were hung up on the wall as a reminder to think about them and the amazing work being done in their lives. I was so inspired by every story I heard and will never stop thinking about the sweet people I met there.

9. Positivity is more powerful than anything.

Throughout the trip, our leaders kept encouraging us to keep on our “yes faces.” A facial expression of acceptance and kindness would communicate our willingness to serve the people around us. This was the week to put behind our own selfish desires and passionately look out for those in need.

10. A change in place + a change in place = a change in perspective.

As cliché as it sounds, this sentence rang true during our incredible week in the DR. We realized that we didn’t need cell phones to have a good time and instead played hours of fun card games. Slowing life down led to me truly getting to know people, and for that, I am eternally grateful.