Day 4
Today we travelled along the metro line to Dum Dum, where we worked with the mentally disabled children of the Mary Rice centre. Each of us were paired with a child who we spent the morning with, helping them with their classwork assignments. We were all quite apprehensive at first, but, had to agree that after a few hours of painting, competitive aerobics and messing with play-doh, we had nothing to worry about! Despite the language barrier we managed to communicate well through a variety of hand signals and smiles. At one o'clock, we reluctantly said goodbye to our new friends. Next, we individually spoke to our 5th year Indian contemporaries. It was eye-opening to compare the vast contrast in the youth culture of India and Ireland.
We were then faced with the daunting experience of riding a public bus amidst the chaotic Kolkata traffic. Needless to say, it was an experience we will never forget, and, despite a few bruises caused by the abrupt stops, we survived unscathed.
We were met by Mother Superior in the Mission of Charity centre in Green Park, about a twenty-five minute bus ride from Dum Dum. We met with different patients who suffered varying levels of mental disability. Some suffered from emotional trauma and others needed constant care and suffered from extreme psychological issues. We all found it very hard to see these grown women suffering and living with conditions such as these. Although we were saddened by this, we also felt grateful that they had a safe and comfortable place to live, as the alternative would be life on the streets.
After our visit in the Mission of Charity centre, we travelled back to Dum Dum. Brother Tino allowed us to distribute food from a soup kitchen that had been set up by the Christian Brothers. This was one of the most uplifting activities of the day. It gave us a great insight into what life can really be like for many people in Kolkata, many of whom might receive only that one meal of the day. The leader of this outreach programme prepares the food throughout the day and serves it in the evening. He hasn't missed a day since it first opened in 2011. We observed the strong bond he has with the people he serves and the kindness he shows them, from young children to the elderly.
We travelled back to St. Joseph's and finished the evening with a wonderful mini-concert for the brothers, with Katie on the concertina, Rosa with her solo, and the group, with our great selection of Irish songs. We are all looking forward to tomorrow and can't wait for the week ahead of us.
Love from Rosa, Leah, Becca, Katie and Molly xx
Today we travelled along the metro line to Dum Dum, where we worked with the mentally disabled children of the Mary Rice centre. Each of us were paired with a child who we spent the morning with, helping them with their classwork assignments. We were all quite apprehensive at first, but, had to agree that after a few hours of painting, competitive aerobics and messing with play-doh, we had nothing to worry about! Despite the language barrier we managed to communicate well through a variety of hand signals and smiles. At one o'clock, we reluctantly said goodbye to our new friends. Next, we individually spoke to our 5th year Indian contemporaries. It was eye-opening to compare the vast contrast in the youth culture of India and Ireland.
We were then faced with the daunting experience of riding a public bus amidst the chaotic Kolkata traffic. Needless to say, it was an experience we will never forget, and, despite a few bruises caused by the abrupt stops, we survived unscathed.
We were met by Mother Superior in the Mission of Charity centre in Green Park, about a twenty-five minute bus ride from Dum Dum. We met with different patients who suffered varying levels of mental disability. Some suffered from emotional trauma and others needed constant care and suffered from extreme psychological issues. We all found it very hard to see these grown women suffering and living with conditions such as these. Although we were saddened by this, we also felt grateful that they had a safe and comfortable place to live, as the alternative would be life on the streets.
After our visit in the Mission of Charity centre, we travelled back to Dum Dum. Brother Tino allowed us to distribute food from a soup kitchen that had been set up by the Christian Brothers. This was one of the most uplifting activities of the day. It gave us a great insight into what life can really be like for many people in Kolkata, many of whom might receive only that one meal of the day. The leader of this outreach programme prepares the food throughout the day and serves it in the evening. He hasn't missed a day since it first opened in 2011. We observed the strong bond he has with the people he serves and the kindness he shows them, from young children to the elderly.
We travelled back to St. Joseph's and finished the evening with a wonderful mini-concert for the brothers, with Katie on the concertina, Rosa with her solo, and the group, with our great selection of Irish songs. We are all looking forward to tomorrow and can't wait for the week ahead of us.
Love from Rosa, Leah, Becca, Katie and Molly xx
That is very insightful commentary. You are clearly open to the experiences in Kolkata and looking outwards. Your days are very busy so - yes, Rosa, you - go to bed on time. Xxx
ReplyDeleteAnother very busy, but exciting day for you all.Well done everyone you are doing great work,the children look so happy in the photos.I am sure the brothers loved the concert.xxx.Jackie.
ReplyDeleteWow such an action packed day. You are all bringing such joy to all the children you interact with but I'm sure you are gaining just as much as they are from all the activities . Your blogs are super. They really help us to picture some of what you are doing. Keep up the great work. You are all fab. Orla 😄Xx
ReplyDeleteIt's just amazing to follow your journey girls. I look forward to your blog update each day. Your days are full of great life experiences. To see the happiness and smiles on the children's faces is immensely uplifting and demonstrates what impact the simple act of kindness can have on another. The children all look so engaged and interested in the activities. You should all be so proud❤
ReplyDeleteGreat work Becca the job you and the girls are doing is priceless, so proud of you keep up the great work.
ReplyDeleteI'm lost for words as I read your daily blogs - - so many varied activities you've been involved in - and all so enlightening !
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is so very well done to you all - you make your parents very proud. Xx Nick