I. First Encounter

Sunny beaches, ocean waves, and cacti—with a heart full of anticipation for this foreign land, I set foot on this foreign soil.

A month ago, summer was just as hot. The lower latitude brought even more humid weather. On this small peninsula, I saw for the first time torrential rain, an icy sky, and the glow of a painting-like sunset, along with an exceptionally clear rainbow. From the very first encounter, there were so many surprises, so many indescribable wonders.

II. A Family

Tracey and Ridley are relatives, living next door to each other. Their houses together are like a luxurious townhouse. I was supposed to stay at Tracey's, but because of a weak water pipe, I ended up staying next door. Although Ridley lives alone in a large house, the two families often cook dinner for each other and share things, and this home never feels lonely.

Since I moved in, I've become a small connecting thread. I get ice from Tracey's and pet their dog; I eat and rest at Ridley's. It's truly comfortable and enjoyable. I'm so lucky to be a part of this big family. The feeling of slowly getting familiar and being accepted is subtle and wonderful, like a satisfying burp after drinking a full glass of orange soda on a summer day—full of joy and excitement.

I almost forgot, the backyards of both houses are connected. There's a large mango tree that attracts insects and people alike; the mangoes are big and sweet. You have to drink water after eating a couple, otherwise, you might get a sugar rush. The fruit is so sweet, it must be because of the double care it receives. It's truly enviable.

III. Vitality and Vigor

During my first week waiting for the TB test results, I participated in a summer camp organized by my host family. The whole week felt like being enveloped in a primeval forest, surrounded by lush growth and solid ground beneath my feet.

During this week, they learned how to use basic cooking skills to prepare a simple meal, how to set the table correctly, and most importantly, what recycling and sustainable practices are.

By having them turn food scraps into fertilizer for trees and reuse leftover ingredients from previous meals—small and concrete actions—they grasped the broader concept of recycling.

I never thought a summer camp for 5- to 12-year-olds would teach such profound topics, but on second thought, it is indeed an important and necessary topic to teach. Children's understanding is often stronger than you think. Perhaps teaching them these concrete concepts earlier is more beneficial for shaping their future values.

In just one week, I wasn't just volunteering to help these children; I was trying to see the world through their eyes again. Whether it's their colorful graffiti or their naive handicrafts, they all carry their unique feelings about the world. They seem to care more about the details of life and find joy more easily.

IV. Wisdom and the Rings of Time

I spent most of my time in the US with these elderly people, playing games, doing quizzes, watching movies, and listening to music.

From initial nervousness to eventual ease, I increasingly enjoyed this work and lifestyle. The elderly are always kind. While they usually smile kindly and are tolerant of minor mistakes, there are times when criticism and reprimand are necessary. Don't feel wronged or resentful; apologize proactively, take responsibility, and strive to make amends. This is the most important thing I learned here.

My favorite activity was Happy Hour. The facility invites singers or musicians to perform for the elderly every week, and we also provide drinks and snacks (the kitchen's variety of snacks always made my mouth water). Watching the elderly immersed in familiar music, laughing and singing along, is like returning to a carefree childhood. Perhaps growing older also means growing younger; after letting go of worldly possessions, happiness becomes simpler and purer.

Over time, I gradually got to know each elderly person. Being able to call them by name when greeting them each day gave me a sense of pride. The elderly also gradually recognized me, and during breaks in activities, they would chat with me.

In less than a month, I heard so many stories and learned so much wisdom. It was like eating highly concentrated canned food; every bite was nutritious, and I felt fuller and more enriched than ever before in my eighteen years.

Before leaving, I said goodbye to each elderly person. Seeing their reluctance and hearing their praise and affirmation of my work filled my heart with reluctance and reaffirmed the significance of my busy weeks. Time gave them years, and they repaid me with smiles and songs.

V. Farewell

On the day I left, it rained lightly, not heavy, but just the right amount of sadness. We hugged, said goodbye, and wished each other well. This month passed so quickly, it ended before I could savor it, yet it felt so long, fulfilling and beautiful. It may not be the most special experience of my life, but it was memorable enough.