“I am a physical therapist from Maui currently two months into a four month volunteer assignment in Thimphu, Bhutan through Health Volunteers Overseas, a U.S. based non-profit organization. I am teaching courses to physical therapy technician students and providing clinical education in collaboration with physical therapy staff at the national referral hospital. I became involved with this organization because of its mission to improve global health through education, so the focus is on building sustainable skills and sharing knowledge with local professionals so that they can improve the quality of health services provided in their communities. So far, it’s been an outstanding experience. The local staff and students have welcomed me with open hearts and minds, eager to learn and ready to collaborate. I am able to contribute skills and knowledge of evidence-based practices that I have gained through continuing education supported by my employer and reliable access to the latest research online. Conversely, they share with me the foundation and nuances of the local medical system and their current knowledge base so that together we can adapt new information and build new skills to fit their patient population.
Seva Story #54 of 100
Aloha Friends,
Today’s Seva story #54 of 100 comes from Beth who lives on Maui. Seva means selfless service for the benefit of community and the environment. I am collecting 100 Seva stories to spread ideas, inspiration and positive news. Beth writes…
I find seva services to be, selfishly, an incredible way to travel and experience a country, its culture(s) and natural environment. By becoming a small part of the fabric of the community, I have the opportunity to meet and get to know local people on an entirely different level than I would as a tourist traveling through the area. I learn about and participate in community systems, local customs, family dynamics, language and religious beliefs in a way not accessible to the common visitor. I knew that I would get more out of this experience than give, but it’s not even about that. I’m finding it to be an organic cultural exchange of energy, love, compassion and a living expression of connection with people near and far around the globe.”
Please share your Seva story with me so we can spread the Seva! Aloha and Namaste, Johanna info@johannawaters.com