Magic, Joy, Horror, Disbelief, Resilience and Hope - the perfect expression of the duality that is Cambodia and of our life changing journey over the past 10 days.

Our experience began with an essential education and immersion into the recent, dark history of the genocide committed by the Khmer Rouge (1975 - 1979) - at Tuol Sleng (S-21) prison and the killing fields. To really embrace the Cambodian culture and its people - you must understand the trauma experienced by young and old alike. But, as difficult as it is to absorb the violence and contemplate what is possible when a perfect storm of violent conditions exist, it teaches you to look with empathy on a people who are trying to recover and thrive.

We also got a glimpse into the true spirit of the Cambodian people when we met Mr Nat at S-21 - one of 7 survivors of the 16,000 massacred at Tuol Sleng. The grace and gentleness he embodies as he shared his story of suffering and loss from the very prison cell (2ft x 4ft) where he was held - gave us all hope and reassurance in the power of the human spirit to endure and the ability of the Cambodian people to recover. We were blessed to be given the opportunity to bear witness to his story and to provide to him the reassurance that we would go forward and share the truth of the genocide with our communities, just as he will share his story with the world via the UN tribunal beginning February 17th in Phnom Penh.

The next stage of our journey was to visit the CCF community center and Steung Meanchey garbage dump. To appreciate fully the miraculous work that Scott Neeson has accomplished here in Cambodia a trip to the dump and surrounding community is essential. The CCF center is a place of warmth, and joy amidst the "Hell on Earth" that is Steung Meanchey. The children are joyful, happy and run carefree under the watchful eye of the hardworking, kind staff of the CCF. But, once you leave the safety of the community center, to step out into the dump, the heat, smells and smoke were overwhelming and watching pregnant women, the elderly and children working away in these conditions is horrifying. But, the myriad of emotions we experienced; disbelief, horror and anger quickly evaporates as you watch Scott Neeson in action - his warmth, strength and kindness are a natural draw for all the local community. He makes time for everyone with a smile or a touch - always checking in with the families to make sure that they are ok.

The next few days of our journey took us to meet the children at the other CCF facilities. The CCF facilities are nothing short of miraculous - they are immaculately clean, efficiently run centers - but it is the warmth and love you feel from the moment you walk through the doors - it warms your heart and touches your soul. And, as you enter their "home", these children shower you with unconditional love. Their generosity, curiosity and sense of pride are striking, as is their insatiable hunger for learning (a group of children began a late night study group - with the older students teaching the younger ones from 9pm - 11pm).

Operationally, Scott has instilled a rigor and discipline reminiscent of his corporate background, but the real beauty is the balance he strikes bringing compassion, love and generous spirit that he imparts to his staff and all the children at CCF. To experience what Scott has accomplished is a privilege that is awe-inspiring - to embrace the possibility of our own potential to effect change in the world is life changing.

The final stop on our journey was to the CCF village in Kampong Chan province. We once again bore witness to the power of possibility as we worked out in the village - side by side with the families - planting crops and fertilizing rice fields. The village that Scott created is an oasis where former families from Steung Meanchey live and work. And, once again displaying the ingenuity that he brings to all aspects of this project - Scott is creating a model of sustainability.

The final miracle of our journey was the opportunity to meet and hear Loung Ung (author of "First They Killed My Father") speak in a very informal setting, telling us a little of her story of suffering, courageous survival and inspiring humanitarian work of today.

Loung is undoubtedly the embodiment of the Cambodian people - she is joyful, resilient, warm and strong as she recounts her story with eloquence and grace. Her indomitable spirit truly embodies the quote by Marianne Williamson that she loves so much "... We ask ourselves who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world..."

We are all grateful for the gifts we have received on this journey; friendship, love, generosity of spirit and the possibility within each of us to build and realize dreams - we shall take all of these gifts and so much more home with us as we continue the work that has begun here.