A Journey of Compassion: My Time with Good Shepherd Services
In 2018, I embarked on a journey that would forever change my perspective on life. I joined
Global Shepherds Berhad and later, its sister company, Good Shepherd Services, stepping into
the role of Residential Coordinator at a shelter dedicated to providing shelter and support for
women and girls experiencing abuse.
It was a daunting task, one that I knew wouldn’t be easy. Working with individuals who have
endured trauma demanded a unique set of skills. The ability to empathize, communicate
effectively, and maintain a safe and supportive environment was paramount. Every day presented
its own set of challenges, requiring me to constantly push myself to embody the core values of
Good Shepherd Services – compassion, respect, integrity, gratitude, and zeal.
The work was often emotionally draining. Witnessing the struggles of these women and girls,
their resilience in the face of adversity, and their unwavering hope for a brighter future was both
humbling and inspiring. I learned to navigate the complexities of their lives, understanding that
seeking justice for these clients wasn’t a linear path. The road to healing is long and fraught with
complexities. My role wasn’t to fix their problems, but to provide them with the emotional
support they needed. I learned to listen without judgment, offer a hand to hold during difficult
moments, and celebrate their small victories.
It was a deeply rewarding experience, a constant learning curve. I saw firsthand the
transformative power of compassion and the strength that resides within each individual. I
witnessed firsthand the courage it takes to break free from abusive situations, the resilience it
takes to rebuild lives, and the power of community to provide support and hope. The mission of
Good Shepherd, to empower and uplift those in need, became deeply ingrained in my own belief
system.
As St. Mary Euphrasia once said, ‘I do not possess many talents, but I can do everything with
love.’ Her words resonated with me, reminding me that even small acts of kindness and
compassion can make a profound difference.
My time with Good Shepherd Services was more than just a job; it was a journey of personal
growth and a testament to the enduring power of human connection. The lessons I learned, the
relationships I forged, and the unwavering commitment to supporting those in need are
experiences I will carry with me throughout my life. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to
have been a part of this organization, and I hope that through my small contributions, I was able
to play a part in the healing journeys of those I had the privilege of working with.
I have learned to embrace the pain and turn every challenge into positives to gain strength. I
believe that ‘every cloud has a silver lining’. That is how I see myself and the women and girls
too. To face all these challenges, I constantly pray that St.Mary Euphrasia will always support
me and that I may be able to see the women and girls as God sees them, with full compassion
and love.
Gratitude is the memory of the heart.
By,
Theresia Yangkat
Residential Executive
Pusat Jagaan Seri Murni
Written on: 16 May 2024