Salvation Army

When I first put on the money-collecting bag and began to find a spot to stand, I was very shy because I didn’t know Cantonese. My friends tried to teach me a Cantonese phrase. But after two awkward attempts, I decided that the bag showed what I wanted and smile and a kind approach would get the message across.

It was a good feeling when the people donated – even a few coins –, and especially when they looked me in the eye and smiled, or donated without me even prompting. I felt hurt and kind of insulted when people glared at me or just brushed past me without even acknowledging that I am there. Sometimes it was difficult because at every turn I saw people who already had the stickers or looked really grouchy or busy. But some of the grouchy-looking people donated, which shows not to judge a book by it’s cover.

This experience has really showed me the other side of the story. I feel really bad for every time I have ignored a volunteer or not donated. I always hoped that they would not approach me because it would be awkward. But now I realize it is just as awkward for them as it is for me, and they have to do this multiple times per day.

I sold two-and-a-half pages of stickers. Some of my friends sold five or even six pages of stickers, but I am content with what I sold because I really stepped out of my comfort zone and I think I did well for a foreigner.