Wednesday, December 19, 2007
10:24:00 PM
I was at Care today, an organisation which takes care of patients suffering from AIDS. I profess to be a person who believes myself to practise no 'ism' and to be liberal about many things. In the past, hearing about these patients, I told myself, it is fine to be with these patients, AIDS does not spread through body contact. However, when invited to spread the Christmas cheer at Care, I still had my reservations. I did not jump at the opportunity to go, but only agreed this afternoon. Even then, I kept giving myself excuses not to go. For example, the paper cut I had on my finger.
I made my way to Care anyway. I had to walk a long way in and along the way, I said my prayer and before I knew it, I arrived (not without getting a little lost at first). I saw familiar faces. Jerome and Travis were the first people I met. While we were supposed to be there to spread the cheer, it felt like our own gathering to me. I did not see any patients. Then, I realised that I was right. The patients largely kept to themselves, but Angelo made it a point to mix around. It made me feel good to see Angelo doing his bit and I am really thankful he did that. I did my fair bit of mixing around, unfortunately, I know that I cannot say the right things at the right time and refrained from asking too many questions. We sang carols and in my little way, I contributed.
My trip to Care has left me in deep thoughts about many things. Mainly about how fortunate I am and more importantly, how else can I contribute? I am sure it is not easy for them, I read the prayers and cards that were written for these patients and many told them not to give up. I tried putting myself in their shoes and I wonder how they can do that, it must be really difficult.
I count my blessings and this time around, I know that I do not discriminate against them. It is not sympathy that makes me want to befriend them. I know that a certain part of me need them to remind myself of how blessed and fortunate I am and to give thanks for all that I have. I hope that this is not goodbye, but till we meet again for I see this as my beginning to new and fulfilling friendships and bonds.
Labels: Thoughts
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