I have only done this for 3 days and kids my age in 3rd world countries do this their entire lives. Cara, a senior at Downers Grove North shared Friday night about her experience in the Campus Life Experience my Pain Rice Challenge. 31 students decided to consume only rice for 3 days in order to understand what it is like for those living in 3rd world countries that subside only on a single-food diet.

For many of the students, eating only rice for 3 days was a challenging experience that caused them to see hunger and American consumerism in a very different light. Madi, a Freshman at Downers Grove North, observed that, I found myself seeing how much food people waste everyday at lunch. I found myself telling my friends to eat their food graciously and happily because some dont have it. So far it has been really hard but very eye opening.

However, for these students, merely experiencing the pain that these people face on a daily basis, they wanted to do something about it. The students participating decided to collect the money they would have spent on food and snacks in order to purchase livestock for families overseas in order to provide sustainable food for them. The students so far have collected enough to purchase a goat and 3 chickens through World Vision to provide a sustainable food source for a 3rd world family.

During this time of presents, shopping malls, and large credit card bills, it is important to realize how truly blessed we are. Nick, a sophomore at Downers Grove South, has decided that I will now think twice about complaining about the food my mom makes. I am grateful just to have a meal on the table. These students now understand first-hand what it means to be thankful for the little things in life, identify with those in need, and most importantly how to do something about it.