It was indeed an interesting morning. The screen in front read "Being A Friend, Helping Others". The hall packed with students was literally buzzing with excitement as we awaited the arrival of our special guests and wondered what those words meant. We were soon about to find out.

As soon as they arrived, the Sunshine Ladies made their presence felt. True to their name, these bubbly and sunny middle-aged women burst onto stage, raring to talk about their cause. According to Council Member, Mrs. Keats Markandu, this gregarious group of women has been around for 15 years, and they do volunteer work at various locations. One of the places that they help out is the Selangor Cheshire Home, which is located behind the Selayang Pasar Borong. Its president is Puan Khatijah.

The Cheshire Home was founded in 1963, and is 44 years old. The home's president is Puan Khatijah, who was also there to talk to us that day. Residents of the home are handicapped, but that does not prevent them from being active and productive members of society.

Two members of the home, Yuk Choy and Nagama, were carried up onto the stage, where they proceeded to enlighten us further on the Cheshire Home, and their daily activities. Interestingly enough, the pair met at the home and fell in love, which then led to marriage. They are truly a match made in heaven.

Both Nagama and Yuk Choy have jobs, the former being a telephonist. They talked about having many great friends at the home, and enjoying life just like others. Residents at the home are just like you and I. They enjoy shopping and often go on visits to malls and other recreational places. It was pointed out to us that they are particularly happy when they visit places that are handicap friendly. It was then that we realized how lucky we really were.

After that bit of seriousness, it was time for fun! It turns out that residents at the home are every bit just as talented as our Cempakans. We giggled merrily and sang along to many old favourites, such as Top of The World. Many of us did not know the lyrics to some of the songs, and hadn't even heard of a few. Nevertheless, their infectious enthusiasm had caught on, and everyone was soon clapping along to the rhythm and bobbing their heads.

The assembly ended on a high note, with many students pledging to visit the home and help out a little there. Who knows, perhaps we may even have our own Sunshine Kids in Cempaka. Hopefully, they'll be every bit as good as the Sunshine Ladies.