CE Reflection - Lim Hongde Darryl (17)

This service learning experience has been a fulfilling one for me. It has taught me to look beyond the small sphere of myself and the people I am in immediate contact with, to that of the greater one of the community. The whole experience has taught me that, to a certain extent, each member of society does depend on the community for support. Evidently, each and every one of my actions can positively contribute to the community and those around me. At the same time, I have learnt that even the simplest of gestures could bring joy to the lives of others, and a small action is not to be underestimated.

I have realised that the elderly occupants of Zion's Home for the Aged simply want a listening ear and some entertainment, with a more energetic atmosphere which can be provided for in the form of performances and games. This is an example of what I feel that we, as members of the community, should readily provide, as the only significant cost imposed upon us is that of our time.  I am truly fortunate for being able to have the privilege of my family's emotional support, unlike some of the elderly occupants.

My best experience was that of the playing of the game "Bingo", which incidentally took place on my first visit. As I watched the elderly occupants light up enthusiastically while we started playing the game, I saw how it is truly the little things and gestures in life that can unexpectedly have the greatest impacts. Heart-warming it was to see my classmates enjoying themselves along with the appreciative elderly. On the other hand, I also realised that some of the elderly may get moody and unpredictable at times, and also possess a different mindset from our generation, so we would have to be more understanding towards them and be inclined to give in more easily.

My involvement in the community in my college and adult years is a definite one. This experience has been a truly meaningful one as I saw my actions directly impact the lives of the elderly occupants positively. I hope to see this result again in my future involvements, whatever they are. An act of service, in the Maslow's hierarchy of needs, a psychological theory, falls under self-actualisation which is the highest level of the hierarchy. This does indeed show that an act of service helps us realise our full potential and also as a form of self-fulfilment, while most importantly contributing to the community at large. Perhaps, when I am older, I could embark on more ambitious efforts with like-minded people, with possibly more funding. An act of service to the community, by my definition, is a joy rather than an enforced action.

Do unto others, as you would others do unto you.

 

Chester 3B (32)

--How has the service-learning experience changed my thinking, attitudes, and actions towards others, myself and the community?
It made me see that there are more people in need than i expected. Now, I feel that I cant do much in helping them but I can at least try by visiting them maybe do a little cleaning for them now and then.
--What stands out as the best or worst thing that happened to you in your service learning experience? What did you learn from these experiences?
 I learnt that it does not take much to help these people as all we need is time. Sometimes, all they want is other people to talk to them. Also, I learnt that we can help by just being a part-time volunteer in the future. If we are successful in the future, we can donate money to improve or buy more essential items for them.
--Do you see yourself staying involved in the community during your college and adult years? Why or why not?
I do not think that this would not be my last time in doing these projects. As i look at the times I spent at the old folks home, I feel that I can do more to help them.