Timor Immersion

Timor reflection

I was lucky enough to be chosen to attend the 2019 Timor immersion, and it’s safe to say that it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Getting to be a part of the communities of Aileu and Lequidoe really impacted how I see the world, and taught me that the most important things in life, are hope and a sense of community, not material possessions.

Although the majority of our time in Timor was filled with joy and laughter, I’ve found that since returning, one of the things that has stuck with me the most is just how horrific the history of Timor is. We heard many stories about the Indonesian occupation, which were quite confronting considering they came from first hand survivors like our drivers who all lost their families at a very young age. I think it’s important that the stories of the Timorese people are heard and taken to heart, but more importantly, that we all learn from their extraordinary capacity for forgiveness.

On one of the days up in Lequidoe, we went to visit the houses of students from a nearby school, and it wasn’t until I had to walk 45 minutes up a mountain to reach their house that I realised just how fortunate I am to have such easy access to education. Gratitude was definitely one of the underlying messages of this trip, and one that I am so fortunate to have learnt.

I found that one of the most rewarding parts of the trip was interacting with the Timorese people, particularly the children, who always had smiles on their faces and were always so willing to spend time with us. Not only did they brighten our days, but it was also incredible to see how something as simple as playing duck, duck, goose could have such a large impact on their lives.

Timor was an incredible experience, and although I wouldn’t say it changed my life drastically, I would definitely say that it made me want to change the lives of those less fortunate than me.  

Joyce Leung