I hear people talk all the time about wanting to save the world and make a difference, especially in Jamaica. The reality is, you can’t save the world without starting first with one person...
Four years ago, this is what the Lumley family did. It started with their loved one, who is a resident at the Golden Age Home. What began as a family gathering quickly grew into a feast for a large group of the community to enjoy! This Christmas I had the opportunity to join them in spreading a little Christmas cheer.
Here’s how I spent Christmas in Jamaica
We arrived at the Golden Age home in Vineyard Town right at 12:30pm to a mostly empty courtyard in Cluster F. I joined the on duty nurses and other volunteers who were setting the tables for dinner. Slowly, the courtyard began to come alive with residents and in no time, each distinct personality began to shine through.
Dinner started with soup and rolls and then continued on to the main course: ham and chicken, mac and cheese, rice and peas, salad, mixed veggies, pumpkin and fruit cake for dessert. It all smelled, looked and tasted amazing. And judging by the empty plates, I’d say that was the general consensus. Shouts out to the chef, Ms. Lumley, who prepared the meal.
After dinner came the gifts. Many, many thanks to Stephanie of Delusional Divas and Cindy who made monetary contributions that went towards the purchase of handheld radios (and batteries), dominoes and a myriad of personal items for each resident. It was so much fun to watch everyone open their gifts and put them to use right away.
I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend my day with this amazing group of seniors and volunteers. In between serving food, cleaning up and passing out gifts, I had a chance to sit and talk with some of the residents who were all appreciative, not only for the food and gifts, but for the time and conversation. I made two special friends, Ms. Gibbs and Ms. Robinson, who vowed to keep me in their prayers and asked me to write to them when I return home. I think I can handle that and plan to return to visit them again in a few weeks!
January 3, 2013 at 10:17 am
This is an institution dear to my heart and one I offer service to as well since first being introduced to it. I am very happy to see such a gesture being given reminding us that we too can fall on hard times, and that we all age and if we live long enough may end up in need of care too. Much props to the team who I now know do this on an annual basis.
January 3, 2013 at 10:43 am
Absolutely agree Matthew. To whom much is given, much is expected. Was so excited to what Brian and Stephanie and all of the others have continued to do over the year and happy I was able to be a part. Looking forward to doing it again next year! And awesome that you too do the same.
January 1, 2013 at 2:58 pm
Lovely post. The real spirit of Christmas!
January 2, 2013 at 5:59 am
Thanks Linda. It really was a great time and besides being with my family, I can’t think of any better way to spend my day.
January 1, 2013 at 11:46 am
Awww…this is really great! I want to help others on a major holiday some day.
January 1, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Awesome! Just pick one and go for it!
December 28, 2012 at 9:57 am
Really enjoyed reading the post and seeing the pics. Looks like a wonderful time was had by all. Will have to remember what you say about saving the world by starting with one person. I always have big ideas that never come to fruition…need to think small…well, smaller, anyway…lol.
December 28, 2012 at 11:22 am
Thanks so much Stephanie! Really appreciate you! Nothing wrong with big ideas at all. They all just have to start somewhere.