Last day at the Sinsinawa Mound

Today, Friday November 17th was my last day at the Sinsinawa Mound. I've had such a great experience working with the Sisters and it gave me a great feeling knowing that I helped them, as they have also done for me. I was sad knowing that tonight was going to be my last night at the Mound. Working so closely with Sister Sarah, I've realized how much I looked forward to my visits and service hours at the Mound. Tonight, Sage and I helped her with a few tasks and we also joined her and Sister Mary Owen for supper afterward. We helped her gather the leaves outside in the garden into garbage bags. There were also more than a dozen bags of rock that were piled in the rock garden. She told us she thought they would look better if she put them in the back of the garden, so we moved them for her. For the remaining time, we continued cleaning the rocks for the garden. Tonight I realized how much we had accomplished in a little over 10 hours of service. Sister Sarah said she will most likely wait and finish the remaining part of the rocks for after winter, and that we are welcomed to help. I'm glad that I chose to do my service learning at the Mound. It was something different and I've learned a lot about myself and others. Both Sister Sarah and Mary Owen are such kind and caring women. I feel that are so aware of everyone around them and will make time for everyone. It reminds me of the parable of The Lost Sheep in Luke 15 that I had discussed in class. We talked about how many people are quick to judge others based on their past mistakes, and how we should be more forgiving. Sister Sarah and Mary Owen are great examples of individuals who are so giving to others. They never expect anything in return, but yet are so willing to be of themselves. And I don't necessarily mean this with physical objects, but more of their time, patience, and sincere care for others. They see good in everything, if something is bad, it doesn't have to stay that way. I feel so grateful to have worked with them and got to know them. At supper we visited with them both and Sister Mary Owen made an announcement to the group of sister eating that we were done with our volunteer project and they all thanked us by applauding. Some sisters even came up to us at our table and thanked us for what we had been doing. Many told us how great the rock garden looked. I was so appreciative of their hospitality and general care for us while we were there. I have gained so much for this experience and I know that I will go back to visit those I met.