Lu Ji-xi (Bole) shares her personal journey during the Western Sichuan experience, where she stepped beyond her comfort zone and faced new physical and emotional challenges. Through moments of perseverance, companionship, and reflection, the trip became a meaningful chapter of growth and connection.
ADLINK Youth Exploration Camp: Ji-xi's Insight
The journey through Sichuan was a huge challenge for me. After all, it was my first time arriving at such high mountains. I’m especially grateful to my fellow volunteers—at first, I struggled to adjust to the altitude, but thanks to their care and constant support, I was able to enjoy the trip and gain so much from the experience!
The most unforgettable moment for me was in Daocheng Yading. Riding a horse to Galagong, I saw magnificent waterfalls and mountains, and I couldn’t help but imagine how spectacular the Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake above must be. After taking many photos with Auntie Xiao Hong and Auntie Hui’er, Hui’er and I decided to continue walking further. It was raining, and the trail was slippery. Although we eventually turned back halfway due to time constraints, the determination to keep moving forward—cold, tired, but pressing on together—stayed with me. On the way back, we met Bella, and the three of us chatting as we walked down the mountain made the memory even happier and more heartwarming.
During the day, everyone worked hard to explore the mountains, and at night, we returned to comfortable hotels to rest. Evenings were spent strolling with volunteers, shopping, watching TV, eating late-night snacks, or simply chatting in our rooms about life and the future. We discussed what to wear the next day, borrowed skirts or makeup from each other, and planned future trips together. By the last day, I couldn’t believe how quickly time had passed—because of them, the journey was so full and memorable.
Facing a typhoon that disrupted our plans and spending the night at Hong Kong Airport was also a rare experience. Everything happened so suddenly—we couldn’t access our luggage or find nearby hotels. The three of us carried our bags, searching for a place to sleep. We looked after each other, used the few clothes we had for warmth, and offered encouragement and support. Although it was tough, having friends by my side, along with the support from volunteers back in Taiwan and family, made that long, cold night feel filled with determination and calm. Perhaps the high-altitude experience and the camp had strengthened my resilience and ability to handle challenges.
Finally, I want to thank the ADLINK Foundation, Auntie Dianne, Auntie Xiao Hong, Auntie Hui’er, and the team leaders for giving me this opportunity to challenge myself and broaden my horizons. I also want to thank them for their companionship—chatting and dining with them was always warm and joyful, and I learned so much about life and human relationships. Last but not least, I am deeply grateful to my fellow volunteers. Whether supporting me on the mountains or accompanying me at Hong Kong Airport, these moments are unique memories that I will treasure forever—they are beautiful and unforgettable chapters of my life.
