As
the volunteer at St. Helena’s Residence in New
York City, it is my responsibility to plan
weekly recreational outings for the residents.
Whenever I plan a house trip for my girls, one
resident in particular is always willing to come
out and have a good time. Nefertiti, is hands
down one of the friendliest and most considerate
residents in the house. For example, there was
a time during the fall that I wore flip flops on
a house trip to the movies (I’m from CA…we wear
flip flops all year round!). I mentioned how my
feet were cold in the theater, and when we got
home she ran upstairs and brought me a pair of
her socks so my feet would be warm on my walk
home. I love it when she comes on house trips
because she brings a lot of positive energy, and
helps me to keep the other girls in check!
Our
recreational outings have allowed for Nef and I
to get to know each other better and talk about
what’s going on in her life. Nef has had a
difficult time graduating from high school, but
fortunately all of her dedication and patience
has paid off; she plans to graduate in June 2007
and will go onto a work readiness program. I
admire her positive attitude and determination
to pass high school and start a career. Through
her actions, Nef has taught me patience and
reminds me to treat others as they want to be
treated. We all have our struggles, and I am
reminded by her actions to have patience and not
lose hope even though it may come easy to
everyone else.
