CE project.

3C Gerald Goh (5)

My service learning has definitely been an enriching and enjoyable experience. I've learnt how kids who were born much less fortunate than I am who still have a positive outlook on life. This has really made me realize how much complaining I have made over minor things. My best moment was when I was able to talk to a student there (in the picture above) who seemed just like any one of us. She could converse well, co-ordinate movements but the only flaw was that she was socially awkward and suffered from a mild down syndrome which affected her physical appearance. I've learnt of her daily routines which comprised of a 5.45am wake time, going to Kallang Stadium to clean up and then going back to school for lessons. I certainly have great admiration for her as she enjoys going to work even though its having to clean up after people. And here we are looking at cleaners as the bottom of the working table. What do we know? We're much more fortunate than she is but she's satisfied with the little she has and even more excited for what is due to come for her. The worst moment for me was getting a few hard knocks around while we were having a friendly game of basketball. At first sight, I didn't expect much from them. I even thought of giving them chance, however, they definitely proved me wrong when they thrashed us in the first round and I never expected any hard knocks as they looked much weaker than me. From there I've learnt not to underestimate these kids as they do have special talents just like us. Do not judge a book by its cover! Having visited old folks' homes, orphanages and schools for children with special needs, I've gained much knowledge and experience of things which can't be learnt in the classroom. There's this sense of satisfaction and pride when I know I've impacted someone's life positively. Thus, I definitely see myself doing more community work in the future!