WORKING WITH THE VETERANS EVERY FRIDAY MORNING DEEPENED MY UNDERSTANDING AS FOR WHAT'S IMPORTANT IN LIFE.
Working with the veterans every Friday morning deepened my understanding as for what’s important in life. I believe that every person should contribute to the country that he lives in, whether by serving in the military or serving the country in a different ways like volunteer in shelters, hospitals, and public service.
As for me, I decided to volunteer as a yoga instructor at the veteran’s home every Friday morning. The truth is that it was my husband’s idea, and I just loved the idea of doing something for the country that I live in, because for the first time it made me feel part of a place that I have yet grown roots in.
On the first two Fridays I worked with the care - givers. Friday seemed to be the perfect day for the employees who wanted to finish the week in a relaxed and calm way. Forty minutes of Yoga helped them relax, reduce stress and get into the weekend refreshed and empowered. The employees were grateful for the opportunity to practice Yoga and find a way to release stress and tension.
IT’S ALL ABOUT CONNECTION
The third Friday was dedicated to the veterans on wheel chairs. I was honored and humbled by the experience given to me. Most veterans were in their 80s and 90s, and some couldn’t move their hands. Although I prepared myself for my first chair yoga class, this was different. I had to adjust the whole class plan and instruct them into something that they will be able to connect with. We practiced lots of breathing techniques, a little bit of moving and meditating. We laughed in the middle because someone came in and started chatting with me while I was teaching, and somehow I convinced him to stay for the rest of the class. I took a moment to thank them for their service. I felt grateful to be able to give them something that helped them find some quiet and relaxation. In these 40 minutes of yoga they taught me a lot about them, but also about the importance of connection. It’s all about connection. Finding a way to connect with the veterans made them feel an active part of the class regardless to their physical condition. Focusing on their needs made it natural and easier to improvise through compassion and humor.
For the first time I felt one hundred percent belong to this country, but most of all I felt belong to humanity. I thank the universe for the ability to share and give others. Giving without expecting anything in return fulfills me in a way that I can’t describe.
Combining the ability to express your unique talent with service to humanity creates access to unlimited abundance. All you need to do is ask one question: HOW CAN I HELP ? instead of : “what’s in it for me?”
I FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GROW THROUGH SELFLESS SEVICE. I feel blessed for the opportunity to bring some relaxation and peace into the lives of others. And I feel blessed for the opportunity to set an example for my kids. THANK YOU veterans for teaching me more about life and about myself.
