DAY 13 - SHELTER

Today's recollection is a little different. It’s not about bragging—I truly believe in giving quietly, where your left hand doesn’t know what your right hand is doing. But today, I want to make an exception, and here’s why: I just returned from a shelter, and the experience left me deeply moved and full of gratitude.
It all started with gathering gifts for the shelter, something that came together much faster than I expected. I’m so thankful for the people who responded so generously, opening not just their hearts but their wallets as well. It reminded me of the beauty in collective effort—how it’s not just one person but many, working together to make something good happen. Packing those parcels into my car was no small task; they were heavy! And when I arrived, they even needed a cart to unload everything. But what truly filled my heart was knowing we did this together. I was just the one delivering the final step in a chain of kindness and generosity.
I didn’t name anyone in the process because I didn’t want to leave anyone out or make it about individuals. So the gifts are simply registered under “me and friends,” and that says it all. This whole experience has melted my heart because it shows how much good is possible when we open our eyes and reach out. A year ago, I wouldn’t have imagined being the one to initiate something like this, but it just shows that anyone can. So my message today is simple: be present in your community, look for ways to help, and don’t be afraid to start something. There are so many people willing to join you. To everyone who supported me in this, thank you—you’ve reminded me just how good people can be.