Two hands and two feet

Astrid Pelhan (53):“My grandmother was a wise woman. She always said: ‘No matter how difficult something is, you have been given two hands, two feet, and a set of healthy brains. Use them.’ She was illiterate herself, but very positive, creative, and happy. She could make something out of nothing. And she enjoyed the little things in life. Selling fruits, cookies, and candies ensured she always had a safety net. Her outlook on life helped me when I lost my job, after working full-time for twenty-four years in banking at ABN Amro. Saying goodbye is never easy, but I didn’t want to fall into a negative spiral. So I thought to myself: it is what it is. I accept that. I step out of my comfort zone and embrace everything that comes my way.”School Gardens & Sisters Theresa“A new job doesn’t just come along, especially when you’re over fifty, so in the meantime, it seemed like a good idea to do some volunteer work. I started working at the Community Center de Klinker, assisting with a drop-in session for people with various questions related to administration. Then, I began helping out at a school garden in the neighborhood, as I have a real knack for gardening. It was a form of cardio for me in an open-air gym, and I enjoyed the fresh, pesticide-free produce.
Now, I am actively involved with the Sisters of Theresa, where I serve the homeless. They are welcome here five times a week for meals; I assist with everything that needs to be done. I also engage in fun and creative activities with the elderly at two care centers. Additionally, I contribute ideas and help organize workshops at the Network Café.”That brings me joy“I know deep down that I am a valuable woman. But doing volunteer work also makes me truly feel that way again. This way, I can contribute to society, maintain my social contacts, and feel useful again. Yes, that brings me joy. Sitting at home all day is not for me. I am genuinely grateful that I can give something to someone else, that enriches me too.”I am allowed to take courses“I never say: I am unemployed anymore. No, I am having a healthy sabbatical period. I am now experiencing so many beautiful things that I would have never experienced otherwise. I am coming into contact with many cultures, able to take relevant courses, and developing all sorts of new skills. In short: I am growing. I consider that a blessing. Moreover, through my volunteer work, I am invited to outings, such as to the Theater and a trip to Italy during the canonization of Mother Teresa. I find that appreciation beautiful.”Dream big“Through everything I have learned during this period, I now know: I do not want to go back to the financial sector. I want to pursue my dream: setting up a children’s home and day recreation center for the elderly in Suriname. Because there are many vulnerable children there, and the elderly are often alone at home. This can and should be different. With everything I am doing now, I am working towards this goal. Sometimes it feels like I am being guided. I hope that my beautiful, big dream will come true within five years. After all, I have been given two hands, two feet, and a set of healthy brains.”Would you like to volunteer as well? Check outhere 1000 & 1 different volunteer vacanciesin AmsterdamMake an appointment for an exploratory mediation conversation.