Firsthand account by a visitor
Pristine air and an open ambience greeted me as soon as I stepped into the gates of MCRD. I was enraptured by the breathtaking simplicity and wholesomeness of the surroundings, which gave me a taste of what was to be. I wondered if I would be intruding into this calmness with my presence: The overpowering silence, the songs of the birds, loud and shrill, the breeze swaying majestically through the tall palms, and the patter of a few drops of rain. It was paradise, and sheer ecstasy. It was like looking at a delicious pie that was so tempting, it seemed sinful to cut it into pieces and destroy. And so, with careful steps, I ventured into the heart of this shelter for special souls, amazed at what I saw: Examples of human devotion, sincerity and passion, which far surpassed all the man made wonders that I had ever seen. I realized then, what the human mind is capable of-with a little guidance and motivation, it can work wonders and create masterpieces. Strange, that this fact should be driven home to me, here, in this place.
The entire area was testimony to the hard work and creativity of the group of happy little faces that greeted us, and spoke a tale of unity, togetherness and enthusiasm. The students there were special and would always remain so. They were quick and eager to show me around the place and detail me about their activities. “This is where we eat our food,” said a robust ten year-old, wistfully looking towards the table to see if it was time for the next meal. “And this is where we play.”
As he led me further into the campus, another little boy came running up to me, tugged at my dress and said: “I like you.” And ran back as fast as he could. Before I could call him back, another student tried to explain to me the way the whole place was run.
Clearly, the children were eager and enthusiastic to welcome me into their midst. In a matter of a few minutes, I had become their friend, someone whom they could confide in. And perhaps play pranks on. I loved their innocence and naivete and realized that here, for one, was pure pleasure, where giving and taking were matters of the heart. Pleasure unadulterated. I felt liberated, loved and secure.
And so it was with a heavy heart that I retraced my steps and said goodbye to my most genuine companions. The experience was unforgettable, and one that drove home some of the deeper truths in life. Peace
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