Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.
I have to be honest—it wasn’t easy at first. Walking into that space for the first time, I felt deeply uncomfortable. I didn’t know what to say, how to act, or even if I had what it took to be present in such an emotionally charged environment. The weight of being near the end of life was heavy. Thankfully, we had a full 40-hour-week training to prepare ourselves for this amazing journey.
Yet, I’ve learned that discomfort is often a sign of growth. It’s in those moments—when I step out of my comfort zone—that I evolve the most. The fear of the unknown slowly gave way to deep gratitude. I realized that my role wasn’t to have all the answers or to fix anything—it was simply to be there, to listen, and to hold space for others.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned through this experience is the art of listening—not just hearing, but truly being present for another person. In a world filled with distractions and noise, there’s something incredibly humbling about sitting with someone, holding space for their stories, their emotions, or even their silence.
This has changed me—not just personally, but professionally as well. As a designer, listening is one of the most valuable skills I can bring to my work. Whether it’s understanding a client’s vision for their home or intuitively picking up on what they can’t quite put into words, deep listening is at the heart of creating spaces that feel truly meaningful.
Each visit to the hospice reinforces a simple but powerful truth: life is fleeting. Watching people at the end of their journeys has made me more intentional about how I live my own. It has encouraged me to take bolder steps, appreciate the present moment, and prioritize what truly matters.
We often get caught up in the rush—projects, deadlines, responsibilities—but being close to those at the end of their lives has given me a unique perspective. I want to create, love, explore, and savor every day as if it were my last.
I’ve always believed that stepping out of my comfort zone is necessary for growth, and this experience has reinforced that belief. Discomfort is a powerful teacher—it challenges us, forces us to confront our fears, and pushes us toward becoming better versions of ourselves.
Volunteering at the hospice is a gift I never expected to receive. It has deepened my compassion, strengthened my ability to listen, and given me a renewed sense of purpose—both in life and in my work.
In the end, they give me far more than I could ever offer them. And I am endlessly grateful for the incredible volunteers I’ve met along the way.
No matter where you are or how busy life gets, I encourage you to find ways to give back—even when it feels like there’s no time to spare. I promise, the reward is beyond gratifying. You may just realize that in serving others, you receive more than you ever imagined.
