A Day of Joy and Sorrow at Mandiram

Community Service day -III

Our third day at Jubilee Mandiram began with the news that the residents had gone on a special tour. This outing had been eagerly anticipated by them, and though we were unable to accompany them, we could sense their excitement through the stories shared by the staff. It was heartwarming to know that the institution arranges such trips to bring joy and variety into their lives, allowing them to experience the world outside their usual surroundings.

However, amidst this excitement, a moment of deep sorrow also struck the Mandiram. While the residents were away, one of the elderly men, referred to as Appachan, passed away. His wife, who also resides at the Mandiram, suffers from dementia and was unaware of what had happened. The grief among the other residents was evident, as they processed the loss of someone they had lived alongside for years. The air was heavy with emotion, and we witnessed the deep bond that the people at the Mandiram shared.

Despite the sadness, we continued our activities for the day. In the morning, we visited the hospice section, where we spent time with the bedridden residents. These interactions were always special, as each Ammachi had stories to tell, emotions to share, and experiences that gave us a new perspective on life. One particularly touching moment was when Chinnu Ammachi sang for us—her voice carried a depth of emotion that filled the room with warmth. These moments reminded us of the resilience and spirit of the elderly, who found ways to express their feelings despite their challenges.

After our time in the hospice, we headed to the kitchen to assist with meal preparations. Cooking and serving food had become a familiar part of our daily routine, and we were happy to contribute in any way we could. We worked alongside the kitchen staff, helping with tasks like cutting vegetables, preparing ingredients, and ensuring the meals were ready on time. By noon, we served lunch to the residents, ensuring they were well taken care of. Although the atmosphere was still tinged with sadness due to the loss of Appachan, the Mandiram community stood strong together, providing comfort and support to one another.

The day was a mix of emotions—joy, grief, and a sense of service. Witnessing both the excitement of the tour and the sorrow of loss on the same day made us reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. Our experience at Jubilee Mandiram was becoming more than just an academic requirement—it was turning into a journey of learning, compassion, and human connection.