March 15, 2022: Even in the darkest of places, we can see life growing. Between towering edifices of gray and beige, half of our group set to planting a garden of flowers, fruits, and vegetables. The garden was placed in a corner of a property where refugees were staying. The other half of our group continued painting the interior. Seeing the beautiful flowers grow in that gray environment reminded me so much of the refugees we came here to help: beautiful flowers in a dark setting. But even in that there is something organic. Instead of the mass farms of industrial production using poisonous pesticides and gmo’s as in America, we used our hands and cooperation.
We were all together today, unlike yesterday when we went to two different locations, because one of refugees from the other location had a psychiatric episode. These children have been through a terrible series of events, but nothing made me realize that more. One of my friends spoke with a refugee who had walked by foot from Afghanistan to Greece, which, as he said, is why he knew he could make it to America. Nonetheless, I feel more awe towards these refugees than pity, as they’ve already come so far and done so much.
This work is not superfluous. Learning to paint is a useful if not essential skill, but helping them garden is invaluable. The shelter is surrounded by rows of lower income, colorless apartments, so bringing in the bright red flowers or the green cabbages creates a shimmering sense of life. Moreover, simply giving these kids a change of pace or someone to talk is a gift after such an intense situation.
After a short bus ride back, we enjoyed hanging around with friends and eating some delectable food, including Greek yogurt which remains far better with honey mixed in. Besides a few mishaps, as my roommate locked himself inside the room despite all impossibility, the Hotel London is a kind place to cool off after work. Though, I continue to think how the refugees do not have such a grand privilege.
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