Ryan L., Centerville High School
Nothing is Better than Helping
One evening halfway through December where outside was bitterly cold with subzero snow flying from pole to pole, happened to be one of the foremost fulfilling evenings I have ever conceived. There is no better feeling than that of helping someone else who has suffered far more than anyone can comprehend.
A group from Epiphany Lutheran Church all traveled downtown to Cincinnati to help out a homeless shelter. We brought food and clothes for the people there at the time, and toys for the children to play with. If anyone told me how extraordinary this experience would be I wouldn’t have believed them for even a second. We arrived in a small worn down parking lot. There was a small house with a little playset outside and a small silver fence guarding off the area. When we walked in, there were three or four families sitting inside watching the News on television. As soon as we entered the door, introductions commenced. Everyone in the house, old or young was exceptionally nice. As soon as introductions were finished we served the food which was walking tacos. The experience of this simple task was a special one. Even though it was only serving food it would fill my heart with happiness just knowing that I was helping out someone in need.
After dinner was finished we spent around one and a half hours hanging out and getting to know the people at the shelter. They were considerably more amiable than most people, being appreciative of everything and polite to everyone. Half of the group stayed inside with the adults and the other half went outside to play with the children. Playing with these children was a lot fun not only because we were playing tag and on the swings but more because of the fact that I was also doing something for someone else. When I was with these children who have gone through neglectful events, I believe that they learned that life isn’t all struggles and that it is full of fun and entertainment.
As we left the house I was left with an experience that l had gotten from nowhere else. The best feeling is knowing that what you did left someone else better well off. I had such a great time volunteering that I wouldn’t think twice of volunteering to help others any time. Who knew that such a hazardous chilling evening would become so significant in my life?