A memorable volunteering experience I had

What does volunteering mean to you?

To most, it's just another way to clock hours in order to graduate or to make themselves look good in their portfolios. I was like the majority who felt that each trip planned by the school felt disingenuous and meaningless however, one sweet lady was able to change my whole perspective with just one visit.

It was during one of my secondary schools usual Values-In-Actions (VIA) trips to the elderly homes, with students planning activities and shows to entertain the elderly for those few hours. The day was already off to a bad start as my group that I was in charge off, fell short on a few stacks of origami due to an underestimation on the logistics part. Besides the frustration felt, I was also anxious as I didn't know what to expect. Would the elderly be open to paper crafts? Maybe it was to childish for them?

However when I assigned to a table, I was greeted by a frail but cheerful old woman. She welcomed me with a smile and started introducing a bit of herself. Initially, it was awkward as I had never taught someone paper origami before yet my anxiety melted away quickly with her warm demeanour. She told me a lot about her story and how she ended up here — a woman with no kids and was here to spend her remaining time while doing treatment. When I asked her how she felt, despite her background, she said she has never let it hold her back. Always smiling and happy, determined to get better and live.

After that day, I've always looked forward to volunteering events. She has really motivated to see stuff from another perspective. Those short two hours really moved me and I owe her one.