My sister, Jaci, invited me to go to Washington, D.C. with her to help install an art exhibition displaying abuses of human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

You are probably asking what?

Let me explain. My older sister works for Art Works Projects. They were setting up a photography exhibit at Capitol Hill. The guest list was long.

And, on that long list was George Clooney.

As soon as she told me they were inviting George Clooney, I found myself on a flight to D.C. smiling uncontrollably.

Did I mention I’m afraid to fly?

But I’ll do anything for George.

Sitting between my sister and a friend, I bounced back and forth from all the turbulence. I started talking about our plans when we arrive. Then, my heart stopped. It burst with anxiety and sunk to the pit of my stomach.

The last five words my sister spoke took the breath right out of my lungs. “George Clooney is not coming,” she said.

My response was a largely overdramatic, “WHAT?!”

Yes, that’s right. George was not coming to the opening reception of Congo/Women. My daydream of dancing with a handsome celebrity was crushed. At least I was on a small vacation, I thought.

After setting up and attending the Congo/Women exhibit, I got more than a vacation. I have a newly discovered awareness for the humanitarian issues facing the civilians of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). AWP presented the photos in a way that showed how strong these survivors are, as well as outlining the conflict.

I found it important to spread awareness of the issue, and decided to talk about the DRC when I returned home. I gave a speech at my college and talked about a subject not usually discussed in suburban America. Although I was disappointed about not meeting George Clooney, I was able to take home more memorable and meaningful—hope for the future in the places that need it the most.