Ozanam Home kids enjoy a day of strikes and floats

Oct 04, 2024

By Cheryl Kristine
Each quarter, the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (AOHD) organises a teambonding outing to foster camaraderie and connection. This time, we chose to spend the day with the children of Rumah Ozanam. For many of them, it was their first experience bowling. It was an afternoon of fun at the Endah Parade bowling alley.

As we stepped into the bowling alley, the atmosphere was electric. The sound of balls crashing into pins echoed through the air, mingling with the infectious laughter of people gathered around us. The energy was palpable, and we could feel the excitement bubbling up among the team and kids. We eagerly selected our bowling shoes based on our sizes and moved to the bowling lanes assigned to us. A total of six teams were created, comprising five persons per team.

The ritual of choosing the perfect bowling ball was an adventure in itself. Some of us gravitated towards the heaviest balls, seeking power in each throw, while others opted for lighter ones, preferring precision. It was a moment of playful camaraderie, filled with laughter. The game began with a few shaky throws as we found our rhythm, but soon strikes and spares were being celebrated with exuberant cheers.

As the game progressed, the competitive spirit within us ignited. Each strike was met with high-fives, and even the near-misses were celebrated with encouragement. We shared tips, traded tricks, and even devised ridiculous victory dances for every spare. The afternoon was not just about the game; it was about the bonds we were strengthening with each roll of the ball. We saw how the kids were encouraging each other, helping out and cheering for one another. These kids were fully pumped up and had the spirit of “never giving up” until the end.

What truly made the evening unforgettable was the sense of togetherness. It was not about who won or lost; it was about the laughter, the shared experiences, and the mutual support. We were there for each other, lifting each other up with every pin knocked down. The joy was in the journey, not the destination, and the game became a symbol of our friendship — a reminder of the simple yet profound pleasure of being surrounded by people who care.

After the final strike, we ventured out for a meal at A&W to enjoy chicken, crispy fries and root beer floats, followed by continuous laughter and sharing of stories. The food was delicious, but it was the company that made the meal truly special. Upon returning to the Home, the children were asked to write about their experiences; their reflections were truly touching to read. The word “grateful” stood out in nearly every piece. Coming from challenging backgrounds, they appreciated this simple outing which had brought them immense joy, fun, and cherished memories.