Senehase Nagam – Visit of September

Celebrating Elders’ Day: A Tribute to the Wisdom of the Ages

As a recently joined member of the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, I had the privilege of visiting the Karuna Elderly Care Home as part of the ongoing project, “Senehase Nagam.” This visit, filled with emotion and connection, left a lasting impact on both the residents and us, reminding us of the deep importance of honoring the elderly.

Elders’ Day, observed annually on October 1st, is a reminder to express gratitude to the older generation, who carry with them a wealth of wisdom, experience, and life lessons. These individuals have contributed immensely to society in various ways, whether through their professions, their families, or their role in preserving cultural heritage. Their stories are a living history we must cherish, and by honoring them, we strengthen the bond between generations. This celebration encourages society to recognize the value of our elders, combat ageism, and ensure they are treated with dignity and respect.

For us as Rotaractors, participating in such events goes beyond merely organizing an activity. It’s about embodying the core values of empathy, compassion, and service. Through projects like this, we aim to give back to the community, particularly to those who are often forgotten or neglected. Rotaract, after all, is not just about developing ourselves as future leaders but about serving the society we are part of.

To mark the upcoming World Elders Day, we wanted this visit to be more than just an ordinary outreach. We sought to create a moment that would not only celebrate but also leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those we visited. Each resident received a handmade card and a small bouquet of flowers, simple yet meaningful gestures of love and respect. But the true value lay in the time we spent together, the shared smiles, and the memories we created. As we handed over these tokens of appreciation, their eyes lit up with joy, and we saw just how much it meant to them.

The event itself was a simple yet profoundly meaningful day. We were warmly welcomed by the elders, who were clearly excited to have visitors. After introducing ourselves, we sat down with them and engaged in heartfelt conversations. Some shared stories of their youth, while others spoke of their families and the world as they had seen it change over the decades. These conversations not only brought smiles to their faces but also gave us, as young students, a glimpse into lives lived fully, despite challenges and changes.

One of the highlights of the day was the afternoon tea we organized for them. As we served tea and snacks, we shared more light-hearted moments, with the elders expressing their appreciation through laughter and smiles. It was clear that this small gesture of kindness went a long way in brightening their day.

Spending time with them reminded us of the simple joys in life such as a cup of tea, a conversation, and a sense of belonging. It reinforced the idea that sometimes, what people need most is not material assistance, but time, attention, and companionship.

The visit to the elders’ home was a success, but more than that, it left a lasting impact on both the elders and the students involved. It was a reminder of the value of community service and the importance of honoring the older generation. Moving forward, the Rotaract Club aims to organize more such initiatives, ensuring that we remain connected to the community while growing as individuals and future leaders.

By celebrating Elders’ Day and spending time with those who have witnessed the world change over the years, we acknowledge the significance of the older generation in society. As Rotaractors and university students, we take pride in giving back to the community and recognize the role we play in fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Penned by : Rtr. Senaya Mahaliyana