Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Inspiration at the Care Center

It's been awhile since I've written here.  I really have no good excuses.  I love to write, but sometimes I just don't take the time to do it. 

This morning, though, I am inspired by the lives of the children and parents I have the privilege to work with.  Truly, I am.

Yesterday afternoon volunteers from our Atlantic Home School Assistance Program went to one of our local care centers to host the September Birthday Party for the residents.  We have done this in September for years.  We bring homemade cupcakes and the care center provides soft serve ice cream and coffee or tea.  Our students and parents serve the party and provide a little entertainment.

Our kiddos were eager to get started the minute they walked in the door.  Cupcakes were put on plates and distributed by a group of 4-5 little waiters and waitresses.  One little guy jumped into the job of making sure everyone had a napkin.  Another student passed out the plastic silverware.  Three older girls started asking everyone if they preferred coffee or tea, pouring and carrying and noticing when someone new found a place at a table.  The children were scurrying all over the room and the residents were happy to interact with children.

One family was prepared to sing a few pieces.  Mom sat down at the electric piano provided and soon realized that it was transposing to a lower key and we couldn't seem to fix it.  Her children sang beautifully but the key was way too low for their voices, so she and I sang impromptu love songs including "That's Amore", while one resident danced with me as we sang.  It was pure magic! 

We visited with people who seem frail now, but were once young and vibrant.  We made connections as fellow humans who are just at a different stage in this journey we call life. 

Our students didn't stop there, but eagerly gathered up dirty plates, cups and silverware.  In fact one delightful child stayed long after everyone else was gone getting the last of the garbage in a garbage sack.  I heard her say to her mom, "Wait, I need to clean that up.  We don't want anyone sitting on that piece of cake!" 

So today, I am feeling inspired by moms who baked and helped their children put frosting and sprinkles on cupcakes.  Moms who drug all their kids out on a stormy afternoon to make sure they served, and interacted with seasoned older adults.  Moms who have taught their children to be polite and to think beyond themselves.  Moms who arranged for another mom to bring her kiddos because she had a sick child at home.  Moms who did all this and also taught reading and math lessons, put the baby down for a nap and fixed supper when they got home. 

You moms (and dads!) who homeschool your children and do it well, you are heroes!  You are raising wonderful, confident, joyful people with integrity and character.  Thank you!!  And thank you for sharing them today with the residents and staff at Atlantic Specialty Care.  You inspire me.