Volume 4: Lessons from the Field

Introduction From The Editor

In this, our fourth edition of The Global Citizen, we have arranged a collection of essays from young service volunteers who have learned rich lessons in the field school of service and global citizenship. We know that an essay is no substitute for personal experience and that many of these lessons can only be truly learned the hard way. So consider this a sort of companion reader for the curriculum of experience as a service volunteer and life as a global citizen. Read the full introduction.

Service 101: Lessons from the Field

The Power of Presence: A Post-Katrina New Orleans Reflection

Alisa Bright

In the midst of Post-Katrina recovery chaos, what does a newly reopened service center - much less a service volunteer - really have to offer?

Slowly Slowly Catches the Monkey

Nathan Brouwer

Between the hundredth cup of tea and the task of teaching and re-teaching computer basics, a Krista Colleague wrestles the monkey of progress.

Culture Shock & Knowing your History

Judy Naegeli

A challenging year of service in Vietnam becomes a catalyst for redefining identity.

Service 201: Sustaining Service

In Offense of Altruism

Nick Bryant

While trying not to entirely “poo-poo” his past motivations, a Krista Colleague discovers what it really means to accompany another on a service journey.

Pouring from an Empty Cup

Sarah Peterson

A Krista Colleague examines the dry reservoir of her once activist spirit in search of a more sustainable source of energy and care.

Celtic Rhythm of Rest: Life Lessons from Iona

Rachel Grassley

One Colleague’s life giving discovery: an ancient Celtic Christian community is a well-spring for learning the rhythm of work, prayer and rest.

Over a Pint: Reflections on Ignatian Spirituality

David Uhl

What better place than a pub for exploring how Ignatian Spirituality can imbue ordinary life with extraordinary meaning.

L'Arche Photo Essay

Bill Hoskyn

Service 301: Transitions Home and Beyond

Windows Facing Out: Finding a Room of my Own

Kayla Walker Edin

Can global citizenship extend beyond the confines of formal service, activism or nonprofit work—perhaps even into the academic realms of a literature PhD?

Idle Thoughts

Emily Haddad

An excerpt from a blog entry, written shortly before her volunteer term ends.

A Search for Home

Cleo Peterson

What or who makes a home? An artist reflects on her painting.

Accept Surprises: From Doctor in Training to Patient in Training

Katie Ching

When the trajectory of our ‘great plan’ is derailed, how do we deal with the unexpected surprise?

Raising Global Citizens: A Father's Reflections

John Frankhauser

A father reflects on the blessing and challenge of rearing globally conscious children in our consumptive and self-motivated society.

Service 480: Peace Studies Seminar

A Peaceful World: Realistic Utopia or Contradiction in Terms?

Knut Vollebaek

Drawing on his experience as an international peace negotiator, Ambassador Vollebaek, reflects on the need for unwavering commitment as we journey toward peace.

Reconciliation: Transforming People, Transforming Conflict

Kirk Harris

After encountering the social devastation of war in Africa, a Krista Colleague explores the signifi cance of rooting our Christian faith in a theology of reconciliation.