The story of the Golden Buddha, mentioned throughout this blog, serves as a powerful reflection tool during our seminar. Our Director of Education challenged us, through a new posture check, to find beauty in things we might otherwise overlook. This inspired us to seek “Golden Buddha” moments.
As our journey progressed, certain themes emerged, particularly regarding the limited opportunities for marginalized individuals to improve their lives. While previous blog posts delve into these stories in detail, it’s worth revisiting these lessons as key takeaways from our experience.
One of our first “Golden Buddha” moments occurred in Laos. Several Class 53 fellows had brought along soccer balls, hoping to share them with children we might meet. During our visit to the Laos Disabled Women’s Development Center (LDWDC), we inflated a ball for a little girl at the foundation. Though shy at first, she quickly warmed up, passing the ball with fellows in an exchange that bridged our worlds. Later, at a pottery village near Luang Prabang, we stumbled upon a primary school near the pottery market. With permission from the teacher and principal, we aired up a couple of soccer balls and gave them to the students. Instantly, the children started playing—organizing a game of keep-away and a full soccer match.
Their laughter and the joy on their faces created a memory we will forever cherish.
In Laos, 10% of the population lives with disabilities, many of which could be prevented with basic medical attention or proper nutrition. It’s heartbreaking to think about the children affected by this lack of care. We heard about a child who broke her leg playing outside, but because her family lacked access to proper medical care, her leg didn’t heal properly, leaving her disabled for life. As parents, we know that in our world, a broken bone is typically a temporary setback. It’s difficult to fathom how a simple fracture, so easily treated here, can become life-altering in places like Laos. Children who may never be able to kick a soccer ball, run, or experience the freedom of childhood. Yet, amidst these difficult realities, we found joy in these children. Despite being born into adversity or facing unspeakable challenges—whether due to health issues in Laos or the legacy of genocide in Cambodia—they radiate a resilient joy that will stay with us. Back home, people often let small inconveniences ruin their day, but here, these children with so little find joy and strength in abundance.
Laos is often overlooked, overshadowed by Thailand to the west and Vietnam to the east. Yet, for Class 53, our time in Laos was the highlight of our Southeast Asia trip. There is a humility and authenticity about Laos that captivated us, rooted in the land and reflected in its people—especially the children.
The Golden Buddha story teaches us the importance of finding meaning in unexpected places and the value of protecting what we hold dear. Experiences like this spark a sense of purpose in leaders, and our class is no exception. We return home with a hunger to act and a commitment to make a difference. Pressure is a privilege, as is this program, and while many fellows are still seeking their cause, we are no longer passive. We are answering the call to make the world a better place.
So, what can we do as future leaders? Giving soccer balls to kids is a start—a way to bring joy to children who may have little else. But we need to do more. We need the conviction to bring joy, ensuring that every child has the chance to experience it. As we return to our communities, we must ask ourselves: How can we make a difference in our own backyard? How can we carry forward the beautiful spirit of the Laotian people? These questions weigh on our hearts as we prepare to board the plane back to the U.S.
Gratefully,
Hillari, Trent, Bryce and Class 53
