A blaze of kindness through a meal

by 2J Chris Lu

It was a blazing hot Saturday morning when I was traveling to Ss. Peter and Paul Church, my heart filled with a mix of anticipation and slight nervousness. The church was hosting a lunch event for the elderly, and I had the precious opportunity to volunteer. I was eager to contribute, and I did not yet know how the day would reshape my understanding of kindness and how the significance of a simple action could make someone’s day.

When I arrived, we began preparing the venue, setting up tables and chairs and arranging simple appetizers like bananas and juice. At one point, I struggled with a large, stubborn tablecloth, its corners refusing to stay in place. Just then, a gentle-handed senior approached without a word and helped me secure it. Her simple, quiet act was my first lesson of the day: grace often comes from the very people you aim to serve. I was immensely grateful for her unexpected assistance.

Soon, the guests of honour arrived. The elderly were welcomed with open arms and treated to vibrant performances of singing and dancing, which lit up the hall with energy and smiles. Meanwhile, in the kitchen, we were busy preparing the main meal, which included steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and fish with radish, followed by jelly for dessert.

Before the meal began, a moment of silence fell over the room as a meaningful prayer was offered, acknowledging the food and the community gathered. Then, we volunteers split into groups to serve. As I ladled warm food into each bowl, I made sure to look each elderly person in the eye, offering a smile along with the meal. The simple act of serving felt like a direct connection, a silent conversation of care and respect.

As the event drew to a close and the elderly, now full and cheerful, began to pack up, we handed out grab bags. The genuine compliments and the sight of their contented smiles truly made my day! Afterwards, we volunteers were greeted with rest and the rich aroma of mouth-watering food to enjoy!

This first volunteering experience was more than just a good deed; it was an exchange of humanity. I went hoping to give my time and energy, but I returned with a heart full of inspiration, having met incredible seniors who helped me throughout the day. We are all both givers and receivers. I truly cannot wait to embrace my next volunteering journey!