On this fine day in Kansas City, our immersion group was given the opportunity to serve dinner at two Ronald McDonald house locations. Having never actually been to a Ronald McDonald house, I had limited knowledge of what the employees would need from us. We walked inside and I was instantly taken back by the generosity that had built this home for families. The Wylie home is one of the new Ronald McDonald branches and provides a warm environment for families.
After getting acclimated to the kitchen, we began preparing brownies and completed household chores. A group member named Mary, noticed a hallway table that held notes of encouragement from past families while exploring the home. Pictures line the walls of children whose lives were impacted by the empathy and love produced by the home. There is redemption everywhere.
A group of Missouri State alumni joined our mission and helped prepare a meal for the residents at the home. The kitchen was alive with the sounds of timers and the running magic dishwasher that’s full cycle was only three minutes. We engaged in conversation with our collegiate ancestors about their education and were inspired by their commitment to service. The public service mission does not leave at graduation.
Once the meal was prepared, we created a buffet line of spaghetti and assorted sides. Most families stay at the hospital until late in the evening and rely on the leftovers packed in the fridge. We cleaned up the mess and hoped that our service would find purpose at just the right time.
I have found friendship within the group of Missouri State students and I have watched as we have all grown together in the act of service. The alumni have been examples of the continuing legacy and our service will remain with those whose needs were met. Go bears.
-Emma J. Sullivan