My experience in the land of fire & ice

When I signed up for the Worldwide Friends program my primary goal was to make ameaningful difference in the world. However, Brú swiftly taught me that I was already making an impact everyday in ways I didn’t notice at first. The changes that we are able to make in the world might appear big or transformative, but they begin with small interactions simply between each other.

Initially I began my journey as a volunteer and fell completely in love- not only with Iceland but the intimate community of the house Brú. When it was time for me to head home I felt myself fighting the feeling of incompleteness; I felt that there were so many experiences left to achieve. So I asked if I could become a camp leader and promptly changed my flight. I then stayed another 10 days as a camp leader and that gave me profound clarity on the positive impacts I was having on those around me. I loved the deep connections, learning about diverse cultures, and recognizing the threads of similarity that bind us all together as humans. We engaged in constructive discussions on significant topics, played/created games together, undertook beach cleaning, cooked/cleaned together, and of course enjoyed the nature. The sense of isolation of being in the “middle of nowhere” really pushes you to connect with others and by extension yourself. It’s like there’s somethingmagical in the air that just makes you open up, the safe space created there persisted regardless of changes in the group dynamics.

One of the best things that contributed to this magic was in the kitchen we have a “hug zone” with a poster recommending you get 7 hugs a day. For me this initiative transformed me into someone more comfortable and open with physical touch. I appreciated how it fosters an open atmosphere for people to ask for a hug without actually asking. It became common practice providing warmth and love to everyone who sought it.

The friendships I’ve made here with people from all over the globe makes the organization truly live up to its name of WorldWideFriends. Although I might not have the chance to see everyone again the impact they’ve left will be etched in my heart forever. The time I’ve spent here has truly changed my life. It rekindled a sense of hope for my future that I haven’t felt in over a decade. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for all of the time I’ve spent here and I wouldn’t change a thing about it. I’m so thankful for everyone, everything, and every moment I’ve spent at Brú.

As I write this while sitting on the front steps of Brú, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of homesickness. It has become such a special place in my heart; a sanctuary filled with cherished memories and meaningful connections. In every essence home is where the heart is, and my heart will forever remain tied to Brú.

Thank you WorldWide Friends for everything

Much Love,