On Tuesday, I went to a talk given by a member of an NGO organization called NICE .Since April 11th, this individual has been doing supporting work for Rikuzen-Takata city. Helping out at one of the evacuation shelters.
As she has been doing volunteer work there for two months, there was much I learned from her talk.
Going into the devastated areas to volunteer, many people have strong feelings to be of help in any way possible. And although this is great volunteer spirit,at times it can be too much.
For instance, she pointed out that at times the people may not want you to do anything. So I learned the importance of being in their shoes first. To prioritize hearts (feelings) over anything.
She also emphasized not to forget the fact that the people who were effected by the natural disaster-they are all normal everyday people.
So don't treat them differently,or in a special way. Laugh with them if they laugh, cry with them when they cry.
Maybe what she mentioned in her talk was all common sense.
But seeing the situation in the devastated areas, it's easy to forget. You just get this urgent feeling to help in any way possible.
But next time...I'll be more careful. And when I'm lost, I'll have this talk to look back on :)
Good job!!
返信削除I remember a UN person told me, "not sympathy but empathy". I still find it difficult to grasp this idea and actually do it.