I wanted to come here to share something from the bottom of my heart. Don’t always think that after getting sick, you become a burden to others. Even doing small things to repay those who care about you can help you reconnect with the world.

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I worked as a cook at the community canteen for over 20 years, hanging around the stove every day. The neighbors loved chatting with me when they came to get meals, and my life was quite fulfilling. But who would have thought that rheumatoid arthritis is a genetic disease in my family? It caught up with me when I was in my forties—my wrists and fingers swelled up so much that I couldn’t hold a spatula. My cooking skills, it seemed, were suddenly useless.

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Because of this, I became someone who needed special care. Fortunately, my old colleagues and neighbors are all kind; they often come to help me out, sometimes even moving things for me. They also didn’t let me continue working as a cook, telling me not to do too much work. But I felt awkward about it. I used to be the one helping others, but now I had to trouble others to take care of me, and I always felt like a burden.

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One day, Sister Zhang from the neighborhood brought me a bowl of freshly cooked millet porridge. She also told me there was a community initiative to support women with illness and invited me to participate. At first, I didn’t dare go, fearing that my stiff hands and feet would cause trouble. But since I had nothing to do anyway, I went to check it out with Sister Zhang. When I first arrived, the staff poured me a glass of water and invited me to chat with everyone and join the activities. I told them, “I feel so ashamed. I can’t do anything, yet I’m here taking advantage of your kindness.” When they heard me say that, they suggested that if I was free, I could help make some snacks, since everyone loved homemade food. I was so excited then. After that, I often cooked warm porridge and small steamed buns for the sisters there. Knowing that some of their kids didn’t like eating, I even figured out how to make animal-shaped foods to give them to bring home to the kids.

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This place is like a little haven for us to keep each other company—people gather here, and it’s always lively. I’m a bit embarrassed to admit it: I have a bad memory and can’t remember the name of this community. But I’m just happy staying here. Now I often do what little I can for everyone, and that makes me feel really at peace. Before, it was always others helping me, and I truly felt ashamed. But now I know I’m still useful and can still help others, and that feels so fulfilling.