Finding Connection and Warmth at Seongsu-dong Nursing Home
Entering a Place of Quiet Meaning
Volunteering at a nursing home might seem simple at first, but it is often in these quiet and gentle moments that we discover the deepest lessons about empathy, presence, and human connection. Last weekend, our Spiritus team spent a heartfelt day at a nursing home in Seongsu-dong, where we shared stories, offered companionship, and spent meaningful time with elderly residents.
This experience was different from our previous volunteer work at the library. Instead of organizing books or arranging spaces, we focused entirely on people — holding hands instead of shelving books, and listening to stories instead of sorting materials.
From the moment we entered, the calm atmosphere carried a quiet depth. Beneath the silence, we could sense lives unfolding slowly but meaningfully, filled with memories, emotions, and countless untold stories. This was not just a building. It was a home, alive with the journeys of those who lived there.
Listening, Helping, and Sharing Moments
Throughout the day, we spent time connecting with the residents in small but significant ways. Some were eager to share stories from their youth. Others spoke fondly about their children and families. Many simply wanted someone to sit beside them in silence, holding their hand as a form of comfort. These moments reminded us that care does not always need words. Presence alone can speak volumes.
We also supported residents with limited mobility, offering our arms to help them move safely and comfortably. After meals, we fetched items they needed, made sure blankets were wrapped around those who felt cold, and tidied up shared spaces to make them more welcoming. These tasks may seem small, but they made a real difference in each person’s day and deepened our sense of purpose.
One moment stood out vividly. A resident held my hand tightly and said, “Thank you for coming. I don’t remember the last time someone held my hand.” That sentence carried immense meaning. It reminded us that our presence was not just about assistance. It was about affirming someone’s worth and letting them know they matter.
Reflecting on Community and Looking Ahead
This volunteer experience was more than just giving time. It was about bridging generations and creating genuine connections. In a society like Korea, where the population is aging rapidly and many elderly people face loneliness and isolation, the importance of building a caring community is greater than ever.
We realized that being part of a community means standing alongside one another, not just helping from a distance. While our library volunteer work taught us the value of caring for physical spaces, this experience showed us the irreplaceable warmth of human touch, eye contact, and heartfelt presence. Both experiences revealed the same truth: that living together with empathy and care is essential.
Spiritus is committed to continuing these kinds of meaningful engagements. We aim to turn one-time activities into ongoing practices that build stronger bonds within our community. We hope our visits leave warm, lasting memories for the elderly residents and help create a society that values living together — supporting, respecting, and caring for one another across generations.
With this hope in our hearts, we look ahead to the next chapter of our journey, ready to keep learning, sharing, and connecting.
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