Adventures WorldRace SethBarnes Sponsorship Giving

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So, I have this great shirt that I borrowed/stole from a friend back home because it completed my costume for a band I was in that was aptly named the “Peasant Revival”… anyways it’s a long story, but I wear it regularly on the race, and when I do, I am known as Peter Pan, due to it’s light and baggy tan material, with leather lace looping through the v-neck over my chest. This last month, I, Peter Pan, found my Neverland, and my lost boys to go with it.
First, lets journey to Neverland!

Cambodia, a land still living in the wake of the Khmer Rouge, is a land dominated by Buddhism. It is a beautiful country, teeming with life at every corner in the small villages with amazing sunsets, and very intriguing and impressive temples. We stayed in the village of Pouk which was truly an escape from the busy city-life I had been surrounded by for the past months.The village had roosters, dogs, cows, and just about anything else you would expect to see on a farm roaming around. Bicycles were the main mode of transport, and children were found on every road looking for adventure. The stars were brilliant at night, illuminating the night-swept landscape after the sun had tucked it's head in for the evening. I think of this palce as Neverland because it somehow awakened the kid in me all over again.


The teaching staff, the kids, and my team and I in front of the school building.

Enter my friends, the “lost boys.” Yes, they are clever. Yes, they are quick. Most definitely YES, they have slingshots, and have freakishly good aim with them as well! You had to keep an eye on them, as they could get into mischief quite quickly!
I had the privilege of serving them as a teacher this month at the University of Nations in the village of Pouk, which is 40 minutes outside of Siem Reap, the busy tourist city. At this school we taught English, guitar, computer, and sewing. When we weren't in class we were usually just hanging out, chasing dogs, eating coconuts, or embarking on adventures on our old cruiser bicycles. It was amazing just enjoying life together with these bright and amazing friends of mine. 

 

The school was entirely extra-curricular, none of the kids had to be there, and the classes were offered in the later afternoon and evening, when normal school was dismissed. The kids WANTED to be there, which to me was amazing in it’s self. Many of them have great aspirations and beautiful dreams. Mesa, (above in the middle), is 12 year old who speaks GREAT English and hopes to become a doctor.
Because of God’s work in Pouk, and through this school and it’s amazing staff, these youngins are finding a great place to further their education and take more big steps toward their dreams. I praise God that they are NOT truly "lost boys", but that they live with purpose and direction. Keep them in your prayers as they journey on the paths before them! 🙂