Kindness

Challenge Day #6 – Your last random act of kindness

Recently I was able to participate in a group activity that envolved cleaning a daycare room for families in financial struggles. It was the Adopt a Playroom program, and you could either volunteer to take care of children or clean the playroom. You might think it would look different from other daycares, but it didn’t. It catered to the same needs other children have in a daycare. We were able to clean the room up in no time. We had time leftover too look at the donations people drop off. These are looked at for wear and tear and sorted out. The items that are usable are then brought outside (kind of like a yard sale style) so that families in the community can pick what they like for free. When we brought the items outside the children flocked to where we were. Picking an old version of Battlefield, or a fairly used stroller cheerfully. We still had another batch to bring out, so on the second time around before I even got out the door another child asked for what I had in hand. I handed it to her and went outside empty handed. There was a kitchen set that is too big for a child to take, so the manager asked the kids if they wanted it in the playroom or at the playground. They wanted it outside but it was made out of compressed wood. It would ruin if left outside in the rain.

To be honest it broke my heart , because I just had Esther and I try to buy her what she needs. I cannot imagine not being able to provide basic needs for my child. This place tries to do just that, provide basic needs to less fortunate families. I was happy I could come and leave the playroom spotless as its very important these kids play in a clean and safe environment. I know how important it is for a child to grow and develop properly and I was able to do that for these kids. I might not come everyday to do it, but this was my last random act of kindness.

A piece of me was conflicted. There were people there who almost looked offended. My group had to wear a shirt to identify ourselves. I have never in my life felt so ashamed. I didn’t want these people to think or feel like a charity case. It was not my intention in any way at all. And if wearing this shirt made me look in any way better than them I wanted no part of it.  The children were innocent and thankful and I came for them. I came because if it were my child, I would appreciate someone helping me if I fell short of something. But there were a few whose feelings I could not interpret and I felt ashamed. I believe that as a defense to not look weak they put a front. Which is what I would do. When I am at my weakest I refuse to look weak and refuse to accept help because I am in denial or simply don’t know how to accept someones help.

I encourage you to step out of shoes occasionally and participate in someone else’s life. It’s so easy to become complacent and blind to what is happening just miles away from your home. Even if it’s just donating shoes, or books, or toys, someone will GLADLY take it from your hands. And come prepared to have unknown feelings but know that it is worth it in the end. It might not be wanted, but it is needed.

 

If you would like to participate on the challenge, see my Blog Challenge Day 3 for the rules.