Geburtstag Insight

(Cienna)

April 30th, besides being a regular Thursday, was my birthday (or Geburtstag as they say here in Germany). Despite the special occasion, I had to stick to my weekly routine and go about my usual local work. This meant leaving the house at 8:30 in the morning to go to the Methodist church in town that has a food distribution and low-priced meals for the homeless people on Thursdays. Helping at this activity is one of my favorite things to do each week so I actually didn’t mind going there on my birthday.

I think what I like most about this place, is the other volunteers that I get to interact with while I’m there. I use the word interact, because I can’t say that I really talk to them. Sadly, most of these lovely parishioners don’t speak English and as of right now, I still don’t speak German. However, that doesn’t seem to be much of an issue. We still find small ways to communicate and laugh together.

On this particular Thursday, we arrived just in time for their opening prayer meeting. We were greeted by our usual hearty welcoming of “MORGEN!” and to my surprise we were also welcomed with the singing of Happy Birthday. They had remembered it was my birthday! As if this wasn’t enough they had written me a card and bought me flowers. Although this was very cute and toughtful, I was more touched when I started to think deeper about these people that i work with every week. They’ve prepared this meal and served those in need of food every week, rain or shine for the past five years. Most of them are retired and now volunteer with their spare time. They always try to give little gifts to each of us. Usually it is food or chocolate but once, one particularly friendly woman gave us these handmade flower dolls. While they work they are focused and know exactly what needs to be done. Everyone has their role and they work like a well oiled machine, smooth.

I doubt I have accurately portrayed them. so here are some pictures. maybe this will help.

peeling

working in the kitchen

Maria, the head chef

Basically, I really admire these volunteers. As cheesy as it sounds, I want to grow up to be like them. They have so much inspiration even after all their life experiences, they still want to keep giving.