Empowering children
View(s):It’s surprising how we as adults are quick to forget the significance of our childhood experiences; in acknowledging the prominence of them in the shaping of what we are today. Undeniably decisions taken consciously or unconsciously following the experiences of deep emotion in childhood extend to all facets of life, be it encounters of love, hurt, acceptance, rejection or any other.
I suppose we can relate to this within somewhere in the spectrum., ‘My parents always believed in me’, ‘that fifth grade teacher ruined my school career’, ‘I had the most dominating sister’ ‘my mother always brought out the worst of me’ ‘I knew I could always count on my friends’ are not uncommon elucidations, when one decides to open up in an attempt to trace reasons to their lack or gain of self confidence and success in life.
Volunteerism is a frequently heard and an advocated concept at present with many confirming the perks gained through being involved in charity. Irrefutably, numerous are the benefits one gains socially and emotionally in being a volunteer. However, work done devoid of passion aiming merely at the benefits would prove to be futile, not just in the outcomes gained by it, but by the blockade it creates to keep you from basking in the joy and the love of touching another life.
The experience I gained by being involved in a project done to empower children in children’s homes made me realize that passion is an imperative element in any task involving humans. The activities conducted, aimed to build self confidence and self-esteem, bearing the ultimate goal of facilitating protection to these children against child abuse. Making each child realize their self worth, self identity and the uniqueness in being themselves, despite their past and present experiences, undeniably created changes that will last for the rest of their lives, making its fruits seen within all domains of their life.
The experience to me was refreshing and also eye opening, to appreciate the environment and support I had while growing-up, and to see the setbacks I encountered in life, due to the lack of self confidence and self esteem I bore, as a result of my childhood experiences. It was indeed a sheer joy to be a part of someone’s story in being triumphant in life, even in an insignificant way. These kids may have gone through horrendous pasts and could face even more daunting situations in the days to come, even so the confidence and values instilled within them will prove to be assets, to overcome the most difficult situations. Thus a touch to another’s life given in the name of volunteerism, galvanized by love and passion will prove to be an unparallel strength within the lives you engage in.
This article was written by a Stitch volunteer. For more information visit ww.stitchmovement.com