For the past two years the activity that has most deeply touched me was “For the Love of the Elderly”. This time was certainly no different. We could only spend barely an hour of sharing, shaking hands, hugging and kissing the grandpas and grandmas. Although the time was short, the tears of affection and delight that we saw from the elderly folks will be a memory to keep in our hearts.
The theme of our story this year was “Compassion”. Though the story was simple and short, the meaning was profound and very moving. It reminds us that love has the power to induce compassion that can change the hearts of many. The story focused on a loving family of a goat and her three kids that, as we know are timid and defenseless animals. The selfless love of the family of goats touched the heart of the cruel and hungry wolf that developed compassion and eventually set them free.
As the day was packed with well-organized and fun-filled activities, the young campers were too tired to miss their parents at nightfall. The Ai Xin Laoshi and Ai Xin Mama tucked them in warmly after a bedtime story and goodnight hugs. They had a sweet slumber throughout the night without any hindrances.
Apart from songs, games and creative story and drama, living skills were also one of the main components of the camp. The children were shown how to observe table manners before, during and after mealtimes. A strong sense of sharing and taking turns among one another was inculcated in the children for the whole duration of the camp. I hope the children will continue to put into practice the manners they had learnt during the camp when they go about their daily lives.
Times flies so quickly and one activity after another brings us closer to the end of the year. With the successful ending of the third annual camp, we look forward to next year in anticipation of an even more interesting and challenging experience.
Lastly, I hope the sweet memories of the two days and one night camp will always remain in the hearts and minds of all who were there.
May all be well and happy.