“Grandpa, tell me ’bout the good old days…
At times it feels like this world’s gone crazy…
Grandpa, lets wonder back into the past,
And paint me a picture from long ago…”
(Song by “The Judds”- 1986)
When looking back at the 22nd of August, the day of our very first project for the year 2018, this song plays in the back of my head. The song carries more meaning to its lyrics since “Care. Compassion ’18”. The words that follow have been put together with the intention of sharing with you , how it came to be so.
Despite the few grey clouds that loomed in the sky, it was a sunny day and of course brighter were the eyes of the rotaractors gathered for the first project; some brand new and others who had already witnessed at least one “Care. Compassion”, but knew that it is never the same. Hence, all were equally excited.
Having completed the final round of preparations, the group headed to the Borella Elders’ home, half the way on foot and then by bus. Around 9am, we arrived at our destination. The Seeyas were busy with their usual morning chores. After waiting for some time till they all reached their resting places, we stepped into their world, with eagerness mixed with slight anxiety; eager, to provide them companionship. Anxious, on how to reach out to them and bring a smile to their faces.
It did not take very long for us to get comfortable with them. Every word shared and question asked was met with such enthusiasm by the elderly gentlemen who seemed very happy about the change in their usual routine. Questions were asked about our whereabouts. They were followed by stories of their old days, when they were like us and how different the world today is to that of the one few decades back. With shining eyes that meant more than the words did, they painted pictures in our minds, taking us on a stroll down their memory lane.
A pause was brought to the stories and discussions at the sound of a bell rung to remind that it was tea time. While enjoying the tea, all of us joined in a cheery sing -along session. One Seeya provided music by beating the back of his plate rhythmically and proved to be capable of surpassing the young talent! Others clapped and sang along, giving their fullest support. It was an epic hour filled with joy, smiles and cheerful music.
Time flew amidst the tales of the past, view of the present world and society through their eyes, words of advice and jokes in between followed by laughter. We barely realized that time had come to leave. With reluctance, but happiness filled in our hearts for the hours through which we had managed to put a genuine smile on their faces, we stood up to say goodbye. We bid adieu to the Seeyas, promising to come visit them again.
Walking out of their world, our minds had changed. The feeling shared among all of us after the session of Care and Compassion could not be put into words. Yet, the faces told it all. All minds were at a blissful state, thankful for the morning well spent. It was a cherished break from the monotonous, stress-filled life, not only for them, but for us too!
~Written by Rtr. Nadeeshani Ekanayaka~`
Link to album: https://www.facebook.com/264372016958115/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1980930895302210
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