Embracing Wisdom

Nishat C., volunteer in the International Prep chapter, shares a heartwarming reflection on her first GlamourGals makeover.

This day marked my first experience volunteering at a Senior Home, and I must say, it was an incredibly eye-opening and heartwarming experience. As a high schooler, I had always been encouraged to give back to the community, but it wasn't until today that I truly understood the impact of such acts of service.

Before heading to the center, my peers and I were guided on how to implement different activities while following safety rules and other guidelines. I was initially nervous about whether I'd be able to connect with the residents while giving them a great service. However, once I entered the room and saw their wonderful faces, I was surprisingly calm. They radiated such warmth and kindness, and the whole environment was filled with positivity. Our task was to provide manicure and makeup. My peers and I prepared the materials, and asked the seniors if they’d prefer a manicure, makeup, or both. There, I met Trudy.

Trudy is an elderly woman, presumably in her mid-seventies. She was looking for a fancy manicure with her favorite color, green. It was heartwarming to see her smiling throughout the entire manicure while engaging in a conversation with me. She shared stories from their youth and family, while others talked about their work and life experiences. I found myself listening intently, soaking in every word they said. It was interesting how Trudy focused mostly on the positive aspects of her life as she talked about her nephew, being close to him, and how much she adores little kids. At the end of the service, Trudy shed tears while expressing her gratitude. She also asked when we would visit her again. That interaction filled me with a sense of fulfillment and reminded me of the importance of human connection, especially with those who may feel lonely or forgotten.

It was amazing to see how eager the seniors were to share their stories, and how much joy our companionship brought them. Leaving the senior home at the end of the day, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to volunteer. It was a humbling experience that taught me valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the importance of cherishing every moment. I'm already looking forward to my next visit, eager to continue making a difference in the lives of the wonderful residents at the Senior Home.