Looking back on our Cultural Immersion Trip I am truly amazed at the lifelong lessons and experiences I have gained through this trip. Visiting the Blue Zone island of Ikaria has provided me the opportunity to learn of a different culture and embrace tools and knowledge that will benefit my community. One of those lessons learned is the importance of socialization. On the island, we noticed that everyone had a genuine concern for his or her neighbor. I recall one time on the island, our tour guide became so embraced in a conversation with her neighbor that we lost her in a crowd and we soon began to talk to others around us. In fact, through programming and shared partnerships I plan to immerse this concept into my community. I feel as though developing a community of compassionate neighbors will help us ALL age healthier and live longer– a concept that I eagerly look forward to implementing!
Jennifer Cannon
