A Bridge of Words and Warmth
This month, our Spiritus team took part in a very meaningful volunteer activity as part of the Gidae Writer program organized by Korea Food for the Hungry International. The name “Gidae Writer” comes from the combination of “Gidae,” meaning hope, and “Lighter,” meaning someone who spreads light. The idea behind this program is simple yet powerful. Volunteers help sponsors and sponsored children communicate by translating letters filled with care and gratitude.
When we first received the letters, they looked like ordinary pages covered with handwriting. But as soon as we started reading them, we realized that every line carried a story. Some were filled with a child’s excitement about starting a new school year. Others were written by sponsors sharing encouragement, advice, or small updates from their lives. Translating these letters was not just a matter of switching words from one language to another. It was about carrying emotions across two different worlds and helping them meet halfway.
Translating with Heart
Each of us focused on translating not only accurately but also gently, making sure the warmth in every sentence stayed alive. Sometimes, we stopped for several minutes on a single phrase, trying to find a word that could express the same feeling. It was surprisingly emotional work. Reading a child’s message like “I want to become a teacher so I can help others like you helped me” made us pause and smile. Seeing how sponsors expressed pride and hope reminded us of the quiet strength in kindness.
One of the most touching parts was realizing that even though we never met these people, we could still help them connect. Our work became a bridge that allowed two hearts to understand each other beyond language. It reminded us that communication is not only about words but also about sincerity.
Volunteering Beyond Borders
Before the pandemic, many volunteers gathered in person to translate letters together, sharing laughter and coffee while working. Now, most of the activities take place online. At first, it felt a little lonely sitting in front of a screen. But as we typed each translation and uploaded it for review, we realized that we were still part of something bigger. We imagined the letters reaching the children, then being read aloud with smiles, or sponsors opening their inbox to find an update from a child they’ve been supporting. Even without meeting anyone directly, the connection felt real.
What We Learned
Through this experience, we discovered that volunteering doesn’t always mean going somewhere or doing something grand. Sometimes it can be quiet, thoughtful work that happens through words. Translating letters taught us patience, empathy, and appreciation for the small details that make communication so human. It also reminded us that language is not a barrier but a bridge when used with care.
Every sentence we translated carried a little piece of hope. Every word helped build understanding between people who might never meet in person but care for each other deeply. We finished our translations with a sense of calm satisfaction, knowing that our small effort could make someone feel seen, supported, and valued.
This experience left a strong impression on all of us. It showed how powerful kindness can be when shared through simple words. Spiritus will continue to take part in activities that connect people and bring light to others’ lives. We hope our next volunteer story will be another step toward creating a more caring world, one letter at a time.
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