In the "Home of Peace Kuala Lumpur," a shelter for children from low-income families, we wanted to provide some holiday cheer to the kids there. Nonetheless, we were prohibited from interacting personally with the kids because of the continuing pandemic.
We obviously couldn't let it finish there in the spirit of the holidays, so we called Ms. Justine, the caregiver, and spoke with her over the phone. I must say, she is a very gracious lady. Ms. Justine gave her authorization to share information about the 17 children they now house, whose ages range from 3 to 19, as well as their Christmas wish lists.
So we set out to complete this crucial task, equipped with a list that was divided up specifically so that no one was forgotten and dressed in festive hats to give the impression that we were Santa's elves (yeah, we took it very seriously).
Although with sore feet and perhaps less calories, we completed the entire List in around 4 hours (we hoped). Yay!! Great accomplishment!
In our very own "Santa's Workshop," each present was painstakingly wrapped before being topped with a unique handwritten greeting for each child.
Two days before Christmas, a three-person crew and I visited the House to provide gifts, some underwear, and everyday necessities.
The opportunity to meet Ms. Justine was an amazing honor. Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to the kids are remarkable and inspiring.
We briefly discussed their holiday preparations. According to Ms. Justine, it will be a calm one this year, beginning with a virtual Christmas Mass and concluding with some indoor activities for the youngsters. The next day, she'll also be whipping up a feast in the kitchen.
The fact that they did not have to wake up early to prepare for an excursion—a somewhat hectic occasion that would demand a day's worth of preparation—was a positive. Although she recognized that they were sorry that they would not be able to continue their yearly ritual of taking the kids on a bus excursion through the city to see Christmas lights, she also expressed her relief at not having to wake up early.
She expressed her gratitude to us all and expressed her joy at our visit.
Even if we won't be there to see and participate in the kids' Christmas celebrations in person, Pierre Cardin Lingerie sends its best wishes for a happy and prosperous holiday season to the kids!
Even if things may have gone a little differently this year, we're just glad we were still able to make someone smile because sharing, giving, and caring have always been and will always be important aspects of Christmas.
Cherish your time with loved ones while you can, and let's all wish for a better year for everyone in the upcoming year.