Why Did the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Cook 60 Bowls of Samgyetang at Changwon Veterans' Hall?
These days, it seems like the internet is filled with shocking headlines and negative news.
Then I happened to come across a heartwarming story about a meaningful community event held in Changwon.
It didn't happen in my hometown, but when you come across good news like this, you naturally want to share it with others.
So I thought I'd share it here.
The event took place on the 23rd at Changwon Veterans' Hall.
This year marks the 76th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War.
To commemorate the occasion, the
Shincheonji Volunteer Group Changwon Branch hosted a "Love for the Nation,
Sharing Peace" event to honor Korean War veterans and other national
honorees.
The event was held to express gratitude to those who devoted their youth to serving the country by treating them to nourishing bowls of samgyetang, Korea's traditional ginseng chicken soup.
Around 60 people—including disabled war veterans, war widows, and volunteers—participated in the event.
After reading more about the event, I realized that preparing dozens of servings of samgyetang in the middle of summer is no small task.
Before the event even began, the volunteers thoroughly cleaned the Veterans' Hall and cooked the samgyetang from scratch. One volunteer shared that she hardly noticed how exhausting the work was because she kept thinking about the veterans enjoying the meal and regaining their strength. Reading her interview, I was truly inspired by the volunteers' dedication.
The volunteers also provided free haircuts, beauty services, and aromatherapy before and after the meal.
Some of the elderly participants were moved
to tears, saying that the soothing aroma helped them feel calm and comforted.
Even reading about the event online deeply touched my heart.
There were also simple hands-on activities, such as decorating fans with handprints, alongside a photo exhibition depicting the devastation of the Korean War.
The volunteers and veterans spent time
together reflecting on the painful history of the Korean War and sharing their
hopes for lasting peace, which perfectly reflected the purpose of the event.
Before heading home, each participant also received a thoughtfully prepared gift package containing everyday hygiene essentials such as toothpaste and toothbrushes.
In addition to hosting this annual
veterans' event, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group's Changwon Branch has
consistently supported the local community through activities such as sharing
kimchi and delivering care packages.
Regardless of the different opinions people may have about the organization, quietly and consistently caring for elderly members of the local community—especially veterans whose service is too often forgotten—is a volunteer effort worthy of recognition.
I sincerely hope that all of the veterans
who enjoyed the lovingly prepared samgyetang will continue to enjoy good
health, comfort, and peace throughout the rest of the year.
Comments
Post a Comment