Enchanted at the UN

Last month in Houston, I was conveyed the adorable story of when Josh's niece Avonlea visited Central Park, she ran around singing the songs from Disney's Enchanted.

Last week, I was similarly enchanted by New York; however my experience took place at the United Nations.

During our family trips to NYC, the United Nations was twice bumped off our 'must-see' list, bowing to other sites in this expansive city.Last Monday however, I finally stood at the foot of that beautiful building perched on the edge of the East river. This was my moment of the same exuberance expressed by Avonlea, upon seeing the landmark I had always dreamed of.

It gets better.

Our visit to the United Nations was not for tourist purposes.After taking in its substantial beauty we headed into a sky-scraperacross the street, which after going through a Hollywood worthy securitysystem, I was issued my very own Security PASS to the UNITED NATIONS.

I was now a carded representative to the United Nations for our NGO LDS Charities, until December 31, 2011.

Thus, when we made our way over to its hallowed halls, we took the UN line, not the security line. It was amazing to see the rooms where the Security Council meets, and it was also amazing to pass by the slow-paced tourgroups and be a real United Nations representative.

You know those out-of-body experiences? Where you ask yourself, am I really here?

Well this feeling only heightened as we walked through the beautiful gardens by the East river to the building where the General Assembly, and the numerous daily meetings occur. We headed into a few meetings, and it was so incredible to listen to the official speakers, and see all the many ambassadors and counselors. This is the real deal, the real UN. Later in the week,Troy and I were able to attend another meeting down there, and collected fascinating information first hand. We will continue to do so for the next two months.

It is crazy to think that less than two years ago, I was sitting in high school in Melbourne, learning about International Studies, and studyingfor my final exams. Now, I have the opportunity to witness it first hand, and meet the honorable and esteemed men and women who represent their countries from all around the world.

What a blessing.


I still pinch myself when I am told my morning task is to go over to the General Assembly, and report on the days meetings.