We got a lot of work to do.

This is by no means a final word on this trip. In more ways than one, I still need to collect my own thoughts.

Our group has seen a lot since last Saturday. I tell people that I feel older since we came here, and I'm serious.

In somewhat of a response to the frustration Trung expressed last night, I want to admit that I'm leaving this beautiful city with a slightly bitter taste in my mouth. Don't get me wrong! We've done some amazing work in San Francisco, and I'm so grateful to all the groups—but especially the individuals—who made this trip amazing for us.

The personal narratives from those that we've met are what I will take back with me to Saint Paul and I will do my best to apply what I've learned to my character as I continue to explore, with a new-found sense of appreciation, issues relating to the LGBT community, homelessness, and food justice.

But none of us can solve every problem at once—it's been a struggle for me to accept that I can't. And now, instead of doing nothing, I'm asking myself and everyone reading this just to do one thing today. Donate the clothes that you'll never wear anyway to GoodWill. Volunteer at a soup kitchen; volunteer in your campus, in your neighborhood, anywhere you see room for improvement.

Because if I've learned one thing from San Francisco, it's that kindness is contagious. If someone sees you doing something virtuous, they will follow your lead.

Maybe not immediately.

Maybe not for a month.

But it will happen.

And for heaven's sake—ask for help! Tell your friends! Make it an event!

We can't do this work alone, and we shouldn't have to. We might have a lot of work to do, but we'll get it done a hell of a lot faster if we do it together.

in love,

Grady