"Keep all special thoughts and memories for lifetimes to come. Share these keepsakes with others to inspire hope and build from the past, which can bridge to the future."
- Mattie Stepanek
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Describe an experience that helped you learn more about yourself. How have you grown from the beginning to the end of your project?
Wow....three weeks can really fly by. (Now, if you would've told me this in the three weeks leading up to finals and APs, I probably would've called you crazy). As soon as my senior project started feeling routine and comfortable, it ended. It reminds me of a similar feeling I've been having: as soon as high school started to feel comfortable and drama-free, it ended. But, I guess that's how life is...there must be a reason why everyone says, "life begins at the end of your comfort zone" ... right?? Anyway, although I can't believe project is over, I've learned so many things that will stick with me long after our presentations, graduation, and the oh-so-close summer vacation. I could talk a variety of life lessons I've encountered during my time at Menorah Park, but I'll focus on one in particular: outlook.
It could have easily just been the AP-stress slowly wearing off, but during my first few days at Menorah Park I had this feeling inside me that I was forgetting something. Not something like my keys or a doctor's appointment, but an unfinished assignment or college form. For the past eight-or-so months, I have been stressed. Sure, my stress-levels have fluctuated throughout out this time, but there has always been something to worry about: college applications, a test, a big-game, scholarships, etc. But, at the start of project, it all disappeared...and so I thought there must be something missing from my life. As I've quickly become accustomed to this more laid-back lifestyle, I've also become aware of a part of me that I don't really like... (we'll get back to this in a moment).
Over the past few weeks, I've met tons of residents at Menorah Park...and I wide variety, too. But, one thing that has really stuck out to me is that all of these individuals, regardless if they predominantly speak another language, have dementia, or are well into their nineties, is that they give very similar life advice. This piece of advice comes in many different phrases and forms - I've included some of my favorites below!
~~~After losing a game of bingo: "It's alright - I win when I get up in the morning!"
~~~"I'm good and bad and in-between, but that's all you can ask for."
~~~Doing her daily exercsizes, "Use it or lose it!"
~~~"Thank you for all that you do"
It took me a while to understand what all of these meant, but I think I've finally figured it out. Life throws a lot at you, and sometimes it's not all good. Most of the time in fact, there is something in our lives that we would like to change or get rid of entirely. But, you can't let these difficulties and inconveniences set the tone of the day. So, instead of hoping for a perfect life, instead hope to be able to endure a fairly decent life that isn't defined by the bad parts. In a way hope to be "good and bad and in-between." And, even when nothing seems to be going right, remember that we all have at least one thing going in our favor when we "get up in the morning." Also, if we dwell too much on what we don't have or what we want instead, we more than often forget what we already have; in essence we must remember to "use it or lose it" and tell someone, anyone, "thank you for all that you do."
Getting back to the part of me that I don't like (and hopefully have changed a little bit!). Looking back on that feeling of missing something during those first few days, I've realized that I have let stress become a part of my identity - something that I feel incomplete/unresolved without. And this, this attachment and almost need for stress, is what I don't like. And I know I might be drawing too much from these short phrases, but I have a new outlook on how I should be living life. Of course, there will be times in the future where I am stressed, worried, or upset. But, I need to remember that these small obstacles and disturbances aren't the center of my universe. In the end, life goes on and on and on until one day you find yourself at Menorah Park, wondering why you let a B+ on a history paper get in the way of enjoying every other gift of life.
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Based on your experience so far, what advice would you give to next year’s Hawken Project students? What should they do to make the most of their projects?
As graduation approaches (T-3 days!) and my project has drawn to a close, it's time to pass on the torch to the juniors as the next senior class and next project-members. I understand that everyone's journey is different and each project teaches different lessons, but here are a few of the recommendations I have for those just embarking on this journey...
Doing a project with friends can be incredible (I've heard so many awesome things from group projects!), but don't feel like you have to. I knew not many people would want to do a service project as their last hoorah in high school and decided to do it by myself. And, you know what, I'm glad I did. As a sometimes introverted individual, new social environments can be intimidating. If I was with my besties during these past three weeks, I probably would've stayed within familiarity and not fully appreciated the work I was doing and the residents I was serving. So, don't be afraid to take on your dream project- even if your friends end up going in another direction.
2) Accept that there will be things you don't like. Learn from them.
No matter what your project is, there are going to be less-than-ideal moments - usually ones that are unexpected. There's no way around it - you can only change how you respond to these moments. For example, when I decided to volunteer at Menorah Park, I didn't really envision myself cleaning out refrigerators or organizing spoons. I'll admit it, these tasks weren't my favorite. But, these less-than-ideal tasks and obstacles are a vital part in creating a successful, enjoyable project because tough moments make you appreciate ) the good ones even more. Additionally, realizing that each little thing you must do will make a difference in your 'final product' and it'll all be worth it in the end. So, overall, accept that Hawken Project won't just be a three-week-long party and learn to grow from adversity.
3) Don't count out a service project right away....
Okay, stay with me for a minute. Yes, for many seniors, Hawken Project translates into "Fun project where I can hang out with my friends" or "resume builder." These are two great options!! But, I wish service projects didn't get translated into "consequence if your project doesn't get approved." Service isn't for everyone - I get it. But, my hope for next year's seniors is that they give service-oriented work a chance. If you have read any of my other blogposts, it's obvious to see that although I'm helping elderly residents with arts&crafts and transportation, this work has also filled me with a happiness that only results from seeing your own positive change in the world. I'm convinced that there is an enjoyable service project out there for everyone, you just have to be willing to uncover it. So, be open to service - it more often leaves you filled with happiness and gives you a knew perspective on the world as you head out into it.
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