Compassionate Waste-Free Etiquette: An Inspiring Example from the Jesus Youth Movement

I would like to call it an extraordinary work rather than etiquette. My experience during the 2015 campus program of the global Jesus Youth movement is one that has stayed with me for years. As part of this mission-driven movement, I have learned what it truly means to practice compassionate waste-free etiquette.

The Journey to Compassion and Etiquette

Back then, I was a student pursuing my BTech degree. However, one of the most impactful events took place during my participation in a program organized by the Medical Engineering Students Ministry of Jesus Youth. Held at a small school in Angamaly, Kochi, this event was my introduction to a world where every act, no matter how small, carried a significant moral weight.

Volunteerism and Community Integration

Instead of just attending the program, interacting with volunteers who were there to help the participants was a highly enriching experience. After registering and securing our wristbands, a group of helpful volunteers led us to the kitchen, where we were served a simple meal of bread and vegetable curry. This act of service was just the beginning of a day filled with opportunities to witness and learn from the compassionate practices of others.

The Indoor Basketball Court: A Setting for Lessons

The day's events took place in an indoor basketball court. Covered with rubber sheets to ensure a safe playing surface, the area was transformed into the dining hall and focal point of the day. This space was thoughtfully prepared for the participants. Two water purifying machines, hand washing stations, and informational boards were strategically placed to ensure cleanliness and education.

Additionally, the walls were adorned with posters and board displays, showcasing the lives of renowned scientists such as Sir Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein. These symbols of learning and discovery created an inspiring ambiance, preparing those in attendance for a day filled with both physical and intellectual challenges.

The Boy and the Wasted Food

Throughout the day, one particular moment stands out in my memory. During the lunch break, a young boy approached the waste bin, his face clearly showing his disappointment at being unable to get fish fry, a meal he preferred. As he hesitated, a group of volunteers gathered around the waste bin, one of whom took the boy's plate and began to eat the remaining rice and sambar within it. This scene of sharing and compassion struck me deeply as it unfolded.

It was remarkable to witness such display of etiquette, especially when one considers the backgrounds of the volunteers. They were college students, representing various families, yet their actions were humble and selfless. This sight stayed with me as a testament to the power of unity and the importance of ensuring no waste was created, no matter how unintended.

Understanding the Larger Context

Later, I approached one of the volunteers to better understand their actions. She shared a profound quote: "Even Jesus told his disciples to collect the remaining food after feeding thousands of men and women, so why should we waste food when there are people in this world who are dying of hunger?" Her words were simple yet powerful, driving home the importance of conserving resources for those in need.

The reflection on this incident provided me with a new perspective on food and responsibility. I realized that no matter what is served on my plate, it is my duty to consume it, reflecting on the significant impact of such small actions in a world where food security remains a critical issue.

Conclusion

For anyone involved in charitable works or simply seeking to make a positive impact, the Jesus Youth Movement offers a unique insight into the power of compassionate etiquette. By observing and embodying these principles, we can create a world where waste is minimized, and resources are conserved for those in dire need. It is through such small yet meaningful acts that we can truly make a difference.

Keywords

etiquette, Jesus Youth Movement, waste-free