Back then, I was young, full of ambition, and brand new in my walk with Christ. So of course, I thought I was supposed to change the world. I proudly labeled myself a “philanthropist” on social media and took off for Southeast Asia. My big plan was a non-profit called Operation Clarity (yes, it had its own Facebook page… very impressive, I know).

The goal was simple. Find some overlooked spot on the map that could use a few freedom dollars and a bit of American help, shaped around whatever local needs I stumbled into.

Looking back, I laugh at how naive I was. But my heart was in the right place, and honestly, still is. It was a wild experience. Nepal gave me a bunch of good stories and just a couple that weren’t so great. I miss the stillness in the air and the calm that came from being so far removed from Western life.