I have now spent two months at Villa Guadalupe, and it has been one of my most memorable summers. I have had the privilege of becoming part of the Villa Guadalupe family in my short time here. I was a little nervous when I first arrived, but I quickly learned the daily routine and how to best serve each Resident. I especially enjoy taking part in the daily exercise, coffee hour and afternoon activity. The Residents are always friendly and happy to see me, and the Sisters and staff are some of the most dedicated and selfless people I have ever met. The elderly poor are generally a forgotten and marginalized population in society, but the Sisters, employees and volunteers here make sure that the Residents always feel cared for and loved. I feel truly blessed to have been able to serve here this summer. Through my daily interactions with the Residents, I have come to understand their diverse backgrounds, and I have built strong relationships with each of them. I have also discovered a few things about myself during my eight weeks of service. I have learned to be more open to new experiences and to be more outspoken and patient. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to serve at Villa Guadalupe and will miss everyone when my period of service ends.
