We Visited Gabriel House

Eight students went to the Gabriel House today to serve children, teenagers, and adults with disabilities. Many of the people we worked with couldn't move or speak very well--some didn't move or speak at all.

We were there for a little over two hours. In order to help with their circulation, we massaged some people's backs, legs and arms. Some students helped some of the people exercise and for a while passed a ball around with them. For about an hour we participated in "healing music": we played musical instruments with them, sang, and danced.

I was so proud of the students. They were so kind and caring and showed so much love to people they had just met.

When we arrived back at school, we reflected on the day. One student learned about how important communication is and how, when you can't communicate verbally, you learn other ways to communicate. Another student talked about how we should not treat people any different just because they're different from us. She reflected on how we should love everybody, no matter what. Another student reflected on how, "people live with the misconception that they are more special than other people. The truth is everyone is equal as human beings. We must be aware that different kinds of people live on this planet and we must accept them."

A big takeaway I had was that before going on this trip, I saw volunteering as an "extra" part of our project—just a way for us to do some team building. Now I am convinced that this should be the center of our schooling. Trips and museums and research and art are all powerful and important. But this—this opportunity to serve and love others—this should be our focus.

#teacherpost #service #fieldtrip