This initiative is part of “1,000 carnations for 1,000 older people,” an event organized for some time by Maximiliana (mobile phones for older people) to celebrate the Fiestas del Pilar and brighten the day of elderly residents. This year, instead of volunteers handing out the flowers, the task was carried out by primary school students from different schools in the Aragonese capital.
Along with the carnations, some children prepared drawings and letters containing affectionate messages, which they gave to the residents. In return, the residents told them stories about their lives and offered them advice. “They have to keep studying and not study just one thing, because education is very important for them, their parents and their future,” said Dolores, who told the students about the jobs she had from a young age.
The exchange of advice was one of the parts that most caught the girls’ attention. Photo: David Graner
Beside her, Carmen agreed that the most important thing is to “study.” Beyond that, the resident welcomed the initiative and the chance to see so many children together: “It’s lovely to see them.” In addition to receiving a flower, she was also given a bracelet by one of the boys.
A REWARDING EXPERIENCE FOR THE STUDENTS
The experience also left a lasting impression on the students. Paula described the initiative as “super lovely” because it gave them the opportunity to share “a pleasant morning” with the older residents. “They are very happy to be here with us and get very excited,” she explained.
Emma also placed particular value on the meeting between generations. For her, the visit was a way to thank older people for everything they contribute to younger generations: “They tell us stories and bring us joy,” she said. Among the students who took part were also Emma and Lola, who spent part of the morning listening to residents’ memories of childhood and work.
Beyond the flowers, the exchange of advice was one of the parts that most caught the girls’ attention. One of them took away a recommendation that sums up much of the spirit of the activity: “They told me to work very hard in life and that anything is possible.” For the students, being able to talk with the residents and keep them company served, above all, to “brighten their day.”
