Others, are often forgotten in life.  It is very easy to think of yourself first.  During the 17 days, the group became closer to Jesus, as we helped each other speak Italian and Spanish, found those that were lost from the group during the day, and helped each other with directions.  The Host Families in Cintruenigo were definitely a great highlight of the trip.  They provided fantastic lifetime memories, as they helped us with Spanish, washed our clothes, provided food, a swimming pool, entertainment, laughter, smiles, Mass, and beautiful scarves.  Small acts of kindness is what makes our lives have meaning!

Yourself, as do we know what we are called to daily?  If we are able to laugh and smile each day, regardless of what the day presents us, we are living our Christian lives.  Our World is very interested in perfection.  God only needs us to try our best each day.  As I told others that my low and high point of World Youth Day are the same.  We should not be sad at the end of World Youth Day, as we will be stronger with all of the memories that may not be active but when we were tested, we made a positive decision that brought the group closer to Jesus.

God helps us through our daily challenges, to come up with a positive outcome.  For the next 20 years and the rest of our lives, we will become stronger Christians daily because of World Youth Day in Madrid.  At a Catechesis session, "Joy" was referenced by the Archbishop.  Jesus.  Others.  Yourself.  I am very grateful to Italy, Cintruenigo, during Days of the Diocese, as well as the World Youth Day host, Madrid.  As opportunities on the pilgrimage presented themselves, I have become closer and more knowledgeable of my faith and God.  Thank you Jesus, God, and Pope Benedict, for a safe trip for all and myself.  World Youth Day gives us our daily hope.