“An experience I will never forget” – Sarah Anne Casha

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity with another three students, to do voluntary work with some of the residents of Id-Dar tal-Providenza in Siġġiewi. This was a five-day experience, during which we were residing at the Sisters of Charity convent in Gudja, whom we were actually representing. Our day would start by attending mass at the Gudja parish itself followed by breakfast together at the convent. After breakfast, we used to gather at the small convent chapel for a few minutes of reflection in front of the Eucharist.

Till noontime, the day was for us to use; there was a day when we went swimming and other days during which we listened to interesting talks on various topices. The first discussion we had at the Gudja convent, chaired by Mr Tonio Macelli, focused on emotional freedom. I was struck by the various points of how one can control his/her emotions. In another talk we had at the Foundation of St Joan Antide in Tarxien, we discussed domestic violence; be it physical, mental or emotional. Another interesting discussion was at Caritas during which we focused on the use of technology in our daily lives and how this is suffocating communication between us. The main reflection was specifically on how much precious time is lost that can be utilised more effectively.
After lunch and a short break, every afternoon we used to go to Id-Dar tal-Providenza. Our work was to accompany the residents during their daily outing. We visited the Viewing Gallery at the Airport, Il-Gallarija in Fgura, Tignè Point in Sliema and we also went with them to Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.

This was an experience I will never forget because it filled me with a sense of responsibility, especially when I was assigned to a person with disability in a wheelchair. Personally, at first I was a bit scared because this was my first such experience, but now I feel happy that I learnt a lot and was of service to others. All in all, this was an experience from which I learnt to appreciate life more, the opportunities that come my way and that I am in good health. I hope that other students will, like me, enjoy the satisfaction of a similar experience.

If you wish to join this group, that is referred to as Young Friends of Jeanne Antide, visit the page: facebook.com/ymsjam/