Asma: Journal 4

Day 4 (November 3):

This morning, we had quite a lot of time to work on our movie, which we're almost done with. But honestly, the funner part of the day was when we went to the Ronald McDonald house. We were given a few jobs - first, we disinfected the stairways and doors, then we stuffed envelopes and labeled them. Before we came to the House, I had a completely different understanding of what it's purpose was. I was under the impression that the Ronald McDonald house was sponsored by McDonalds to care for children with health problems. My assumption about the place was completely wrong, though. I was surprised to find out that it was an actual house, where families lived when their son/daughter was sick in the hospital. It was basically a hotel, but without the fee. It's a really nice concept. I liked how the house had a warm and welcoming atmosphere. All the amenities that would make a person comfortable were present- computers, big TV, toy room, comfy couches, and even a breakfast table.

As part of the cleaning, we had to go downstairs to the basement. It was a big, open space where kids could run around and play. The second we walked in, I saw a father and his young son. For a moment, he hadn't noticed us and continued to be absorbed in an Xbox game with his son. It was one of those moments where you were able to see the power of family at work. I knew that the father and son had a story that brought them to the house, and it made me happy to see them making the best of their situation. Once the man noticed us in the doorway, he smiled and said hello. I was glad that despite the circumstances, he was still taking the time to be happy and bond with his son. I can only imagine the stress he and his family must be going through with a child terminally ill in a hospital.

I enjoyed this visit to the Ronald McDonald house. Next time, though, I hope we get to interact with the people a little more- maybe help them directly or help them out with something a little more personal. I understand that our help in cleaning is greatly appreciated, but maybe I'd get even more out of the experience if it hadn't just been the standard clean-up/organizing jobs. I'd probably feel prouder of the work if I saw how much these people appreciated it, too. Anyways, I think during our next trip to Ronald McDonald house we'll be baking, so I'm looking forward to seeing how that turns out.