The phrase, “misery loves company”; means that people who are unhappy often find comfort in being around others who are also unhappy or experiencing similar struggles. It suggests that shared misery can create a sense of solidarity or make ones own troubles feel less isolating. Volunteering at the Pasadena Senior Center impacted me in an unexpected way.
Back in 2012, I was having a rough year. I was in the middle of a $5 million lawsuit with a former employer, attending Glendale Community College after being academically dismissed from two universities, and, to top it off, I had to pay a hefty amount for school. It was an uncomfortable and uninspired time in my life. The only thing that brought me any joy was Kanye West G.O.O.D. Friday music series, which he released to promote his album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and when Kendrick Lamar dropped his classic Section.80 mixtape.
I remember my mom subtly asking, “Hey, would you like to help out at the Pasadena Senior Center?” I thought about it for about 2-3 seconds and said, “Sure.” At the time, I didn’t feel like I had the capacity to serve others, let alone the patience to do so. But for some reason, it felt like the right thing to do. So, I agreed to help for Thanksgiving, not really expecting that the experience would impact the rest of my life.
One of the biggest takeaways from my first time serving was the relationships I formed with so many individuals from different walks of life. The first person I connected with was a gentleman named Don. I don’t remember if he ever actually told me his full name, but he was incredibly charismatic and full of life. Don always had a great outlook, and even though he was 76 or 77 years old, he never let his age hold him back from being present in the moment.
On the other hand, there was a woman with bright blue hair who had the complete opposite personality. She came off as cynical and almost pessimistic—just really negative when she walked in. I decided to ignore it and treated her with even more kindness. As it turned out, her attitude was more of a defense mechanism. Eventually, she started making sarcastic remarks, but then she’d crack a grin to show she was joking. She ended up sitting at a table with people she didn’t know, but by the end of the day, she was laughing, joking, and making friends.
All these different personalities—almost like cartoon characters with their own unique outlooks on life—came together for one common reason: to enjoy a delicious meal and feel a sense of connection and fellowship. Many of these individuals exemplify gratitude for life itself. They are truly appreciative of the simple opportunity to live and breathe another day—small things that are so easy to take for granted as we get lost in the shuffle of our day-to-day activities. For me, the most meaningful part of the experience was hearing their stories and learning from their life experiences. Their perspectives gave me a sense of clarity and gratitude. Listening to these wonderful people—many of whom have decades of life experience—was a gift. Sometimes, all they need is someone to hear them out. Giving them a space to share their opinions, ideas, and stories is incredibly valuable.
I also volunteer during Christmas at the Pasadena Senior Center, and the holiday season always brings a unique vibe and energy. New volunteers join in, familiar faces return, and the atmosphere feels even more festive. This Christmas, our chef decided on a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring kabobs, rice, hummus, salad, and pita bread. Apple cider and champagne were served, adding to the holiday mood. The decorations were more elaborate than usual, Santa made an appearance, and the piano player filled the room with classic Christmas tunes which sets the tone for what the event is all about.
I didn’t write this article to exploit the seniors I’ve met at PSC or to guilt-trip anyone into giving back. I wrote this because, in more ways than one, the Pasadena Senior Center has made a significant impact on my life. I’m grateful for the chance to give back to those who have paved the way for me, and I want to make sure I pay it forward.
The Pasadena Senior Center offers plenty of opportunities to get involved and volunteer—not just during the holidays, but throughout the year. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can contact the Pasadena Senior Center and ask for Mrs. Annie. Let her know that Reekz referred you and that you’d like to get involved.
