Stories
Young at Heart
For six weeks, our center was a buzz with chatter and laughter from the women who joined our “summer camp”. The women took part in different activities, from arts and crafts to games and learning sessions. Each woman brought her own story, but one woman, has left a lasting impression on all of us: 70-year-old grandmother, Douhouk—a name that means “laughter.” And she truly lives up to her name. Although she is the oldest among the women, she has one of the youngest spirits. She walks with the help of a crutch, but it has never stopped her from participating, learning, helping, and spreading happiness around her. She never missed a class and was often the first to arrive. Her life has not been easy. She has lived through the hardships of the Syrian war and the challenges of raising her daughters, each facing struggles of their own. Douhouk now helps to care for granddaughter to help her divorced daughter. Despite everything she has experienced, she continues to bring light wherever she goes. While the women are busy with an art or craft activity, it is not unusual to suddenly hear her begin singing—and within moments, everyone joins in with excitement. Her presence reminds us that learning has no age, joy can be found in the simplest moments, and strength can take many forms. Douhouk came to the center looking for opportunities to learn, but she has given us something just as valuable in return: the reminder that a joyful spirit can inspire an entire community.
–Pamela
