Hitomi embraced the idea that the perfect time to volunteer might never come, inspiring her to connect with someone who shares her passion for music.
Hitomi Sato, BSRV piano tutor volunteer, says "enjoy the sound, play with your heart" and shares her journey to volunteering with BSRV below.
Someone once told me that volunteering is for somebody who has plenty of spare time.
I have always wanted to do volunteering but I have been unable to find the time. There are always plans with friends, holidays with family, a full-time job plus my own business, dog walks, and appointments for my nails…
I waited and I thought the right time would come. I realised I was now 40 years old and I still felt I had no time but if I kept waiting for it, I would become an age when I need someone’s help. So, I decided to do it. Just do it.
I'm not 100% sure why I really wanted to volunteer, but I felt it is the right thing to do. Maybe I wanted to be away from this loop of working hard, making and spending money, to forget about stress. Miriam, BSRV Program Manager, listened to my thoughts and feelings, and she introduced me to my piano buddy, Jermin.
Being with Jermin makes me feel very special. She is very independent and strong-minded. She has a strong passion for music. I feel that Jermin can "see" a lot of things so I often forget that she is blind. She surprises me every time I visit her.
I have only been volunteering for less than half a year. I am not sure if I am providing the lessons that Jermin expected. I have learned piano in an "old school way" with strict lessons. I want her to improve her piano skills like how I improved mine. Sometimes I put too much focus on the results, but I have learned that there are many different ways of teaching and learning and creating music together.
I am enjoying exchanging energy with Jermin through teaching piano. It is very special to me, and I hope she feels so too. I look forward to seeing Jermin’s smile. Thank you Jermin.
Hitomi embraced the idea that the perfect time to volunteer might never come, inspiring her to connect with someone who shares her passion for music.
“The learning curve was steep but I learnt quickly. Rick is patient, experienced as a runner and extremely motivated” said Carlos, BSRV volunteer.
"We became fast friends and have never been at a loss for things to talk and laugh about!"
Heading out most weekends, Annette and BSRV volunteer Andrew are sharing their joy of riding as they explore their local area.
