A Heart - warming Afternoon with the Elderly in Cuiyuan Community

Today, as a volunteer from Zhejiang University, I spent a truly meaningful afternoon with the elderly at Cuiyuan Community, and I’m excited to share this heartwarming experience with you all.

When we arrived, a funny moment happened. It was raining, but the organizers had prepared short-sleeved shirts for us. We all had a good laugh at how out of place they seemed, and of course, no one ended up wearing them.

 The day was packed with different activities. One moment that stood out was watching the elderly doing their exercises with such earnestness. Their focus and enthusiasm were genuinely inspiring.

 Afterward, I joined the elderly in some handicraft activities, making clay sculptures and planting succulents. One grandpa was especially impressed—he kept giving me thumbs-ups and complimenting my work. He also shared stories, telling me that the community had been visited by a very important figure three times. He was such a friendly and talkative grandpa, and chatting with him was a real highlight of the day.

 I also became a “rose-making machine” since all the grandparents wanted the roses I made. It felt great to share my creations with them and see their smiles.

 During the balloon-fanning game, two grandmas challenged each other to a one-on-one showdown. They got so competitive, even playfully “threatening” to defeat one another. It was absolutely hilarious!

There was also a heartwarming moment when I saw an elderly couple. They gently toasted each other with their water cups, and their love felt so genuine and enduring. It reminded me how beautiful true love can be.

 Another funny moment was when a grandma told a guy wearing a leather jacket that he should find a wife soon. The guy was really skilled at making clay crafts, which made me smile and think how wonderfully straightforward and forward-thinking that grandma was.

 I also saw two silver-haired grandmas whispering to each other like old friends sharing secrets. It was such a precious glimpse of their deep friendship.

 During the succulent-planting activity, I got so caught up in it that I ended up covered in soil. Thankfully, my fellow volunteers came to the rescue and helped me clean up.

This volunteer activity not only brought joy to the elderly but also filled me with a deep sense of fulfillment. It helped me realize how important it is to spend time with older generations and how even a small effort from us can bring immense warmth and happiness to their lives. I’m truly looking forward to more opportunities like this in the future.