Burrito Project - Josh Katzenbach

The burrito project was a really cool experience because it allowed me to get a personal glimpse into the misfortunes of others. As part of the project, I was able to personally hand deliver burritos to homeless individuals in downtown Salt Lake City. Their living conditions are absolutely abysmal – most carry around all their positions in a shopping cart and live in a pile of blankets. Any money they earn from welfare programs is spent on cigarettes. They have no positives in their future, and it is heartbreaking. This has shown me the true value of service, and the impact that a simple burrito can have on person. Obviously, in the overall scheme of things, it won’t have a significant impact on their well being, but in that moment, it lights up their world. The gratitude in their eyes is both amazing and depressing to see. It gives me a feeling of selfishness, that all I could give them was a burrito when I have been blessed with so much. It takes a lot of people and a lot of time to make a real difference. I think this activity was extremely meaningful because it opened my eyes to the necessity of service. Service should not simply be limited to small acts of kindness – if carried out properly, service can truly change lives. The burrito project may be changing lives in the long run, but it has shown me the necessity and possible implications of service.
“To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.”
               - Douglas Adams

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