Nourished by Love: Honoring the Hands that Serve

At MA Center Michigan, the spirit of seva came alive during our recent Volunteer Appreciation Lunch, a heartfelt gathering to celebrate the unwavering dedication of our Mother's Kitchen volunteers and sponsors.

Since its humble beginnings in 1997, when meals were lovingly prepared in home kitchens, Mother's Kitchen has grown into a powerful expression of compassion. Volunteers have cooked and served warm meals in shelters and transitional homes, reaching countless individuals and families in need.

When the pandemic made it unsafe to cook and serve meals in person, our volunteers adapted with the same loving commitment—shopping for and delivering groceries to ensure no one was left without nourishment. Even in isolation, the spirit of service continued strong.

This appreciation lunch brought together many who have been united in compassion but had never met in person. We sat in a circle, sharing why we serve, listening with open hearts, and recognizing how deeply connected we are through compassion and service.

We shared a simple yet meaningful meal—one we regularly serve to residents of Alpha House. Sitting together in gratitude, the food became more than nourishment; it became a symbol of the love and dignity we strive to extend through every act of service. Conversations flowed easily, full of laughter, stories, and quiet moments of recognition for all that has been given—and received — through this shared journey of seva.

As a token of appreciation, each volunteer received a small pail filled with seeds to plant, Amma’s prasad candy, and a note featuring Amma’s quote: “A one-word solution for almost all the problems the world is facing today is compassion.” These simple gifts served as reminders that, just like the seeds, our seva grows—quietly, beautifully, and with purpose. Rooted in compassion, every act of kindness has the power to blossom into healing far beyond what we can see.

To all our MK volunteers: thank you for nourishing more than just bodies. You nourish hearts, spirits, and hope.