A Heart Warming Experience

There is an old saying that goes, "it is better to give than to receive." I have just truly realized how powerful that saying was after I have done my 12 hours of community service and my other completed hours from the past years. There is no greater feeling of fulfillment when one dedicates their time to someone whom needs some caring. In my 12 hours of community service, I had volunteered in my church, gift wrap gifts at the Agnew center, and helped at the Christmas party that the Portuguese threw for the under privilege children at Lyndale Elementary School. I knew that I made a difference somehow in someway in my community. I wish that each and every individual would find it in their hearts to give up themselves and sacrifice at least an hour for someone who needs to be fed, clothe, comforted, guided, and this could go on, but for someone who is grasping for help. There is definitely something very satisfying about giving one's time and one's sweat and dirty hand. An indescribable feeling of joy that lingers in our heart.

I know many people have volunteered themselves at their local churches and I am glad I that was one of them. Every Monday, I go to Our Lady of Peace Church in Santa Clara to help the teachers with the catechism program.

I would stay form quarter to seven to quarter to nine. I would start out the night helping prepare for classes by organizing the kids and making sure that they are in their right classes. Then I would go up and down the tiring stairs to take attendance of each of the classes that are being held. Afterwards, I would call the kids who are absent, ask them for the reason of their absence, and remind them to go to class the following week. I also had to watch over one of the class for 15 minutes or so because the teacher had to take care of personal business. That was a fun experience: I felt like a substitute teacher, who was treated with respect. There were times when I just felt like I couldn't help out due to my stress and lack of sleep from school, but realizing that I'm not only helping out my community, but also dedicating my time to God. Through that, I gain strength, perseverance, and will power. I was able to endure the work that was given to me. During my service, I got to know Vickie Rosario, another volunteer member. Having her there made my community service hours fun and faster. I had fun chatting and getting to know a new friend and at the same time helped in my community.

On Friday, December 8, the Portuguese club and I went to the Agnew center in Milpitas to gift-wrap. We wrapped the presents that the residents who lived there were going to receive for Christmas. I had so much fun. Then on Wednesday, December 21 during lunch, we went to P-2, Ms. Bettencourt's room and wrapped the gifts that we gave the little kids at the Christmas Party that we threw them. During the gift-wrapping session, I got to know my fellow member, talk and hangout with my friends, practiced my giftÐ'--wrapping skill, and helped the Agnew Center. What a great package deal!

A person who only signs a check for the under privilege little children, no matter how large, could not have the same kind satisfaction as to a person who is actually there, present, dedicating their time for the children, and seeing the children's bright genuine smile. On Friday, December 22, Portuguese club and I went to Lyndale Elementary school and threw a party for the under privilege children. These children do not get to celebrate Christmas like the other fortunate kids out there. I was assigned to work with two little boys who were Indian and Filipino. I helped and guided them with planned

activities. They started by creating their nametag and making it as creative as possible and then, they decorated their gingerbread. This two activities took quite a while. Then we continued by passing the goodies that we brought them such as: cupcakes, cookies, cake, and drinks. While eating their food, I could tell that they really appreciated what we were doing for them, and that they were having a blast. Last but not least, we distributed each of their presents one by one by their name. When they opened their gift all together at