Lipscomb Missions provides life-changing opportunities for students
Lipscomb University’s spring mission trips aren’t just about ticking off a service requirement box or earning extracurricular credits. They’re about diving headfirst into a world of experiences that leave students forever changed, opening their eyes to the complexities of humanity and the power of connection.
Take Jackson Head, a sophomore molecular biology major from Nashville. He found himself far from the familiar streets of home, immersed in the vibrant culture of Guatemala on a medical and dental mission trip to Coban. Amidst the hustle and bustle of providing care, Jackson formed an unexpected bond with Elmer, a laid-back 14-year-old local.
Their friendship transcended language barriers, built on shared smiles, games, and simple acts of kindness. But it was when Elmer’s eyes welled up with tears as the trip came to an end that Jackson realized the true impact of their connection. In that moment, he understood that sometimes, the greatest gift you can give is your presence.
Jackson returned from Guatemala with more than just memories; he brought back a newfound perspective on life. Immersed in a community marked by resilience and camaraderie, he found himself reevaluating the trivialities of first-world problems. Inspired by the joy and love exhibited by the locals, Jackson’s aspirations took on a global dimension, merging his passion for medicine with a dedication to global outreach.
Cayden Durrough is a junior biology major from Brentwood, Tennessee who was on the same trip as Head. His journey mirrored Jackson’s in many ways, filled with moments of laughter, connection, and profound self-discovery. Amidst the challenges of navigating cultural differences and inadequate resources, Cayden found peace in the shared humanity that transcended language barriers.
One particular memory stands out: an impromptu language exchange with a local named Kevin. What started as a simple exchange of words soon turned into a joyous celebration of cross-cultural communication, with laughter echoing through the village as they stumbled over unfamiliar pronunciations.
As they return to campus, Jackson and Cayden carry with them more than just souvenirs and photographs. They carry stories of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of human connection. Their experiences serve as a reminder that in a world often divided by borders and languages, the ties that bind us are stronger than we realize.
So, the next time you hear about Lipscomb’s spring mission trips, don’t just think of them as another item on a student’s resume. Think of them as journeys of the heart, where lives are touched, perspectives are shifted, and bonds are forged that transcend time and distance. Because in the end, it’s not just about what you do; it’s about who you become along the way.
