The Grace of Great Things

The greatest object in the universe, says a certain philosopher, is a good man struggling with adversity; yet there is a still greater, which is the good man that comes to relieve it.

–Oliver Goldsmith
Words of Wellness
Joseph Sutton (1991)

I just got back from the COBA Remodelers 2009 Ramp-a-thon in Bend Oregon. The event brought building professionals and other volunteers together for a day with the shared goal of building access ramps for Central Oregon citizens in need.

Teams of volunteers headed up by experienced “Ramp-Captains” used donated materials and their labor to build ramps; which empowered wheelchair-using residents with the freedom to enter and exit the home on their own terms.

Our “Ramp Captain” was Mike Davis, who along with Keith, Brian, James, and Claudia, showed what it means to give of one’s expertise in the service of others. The goodwill was palpable.

The Silence Between the Notes

There are few things in life more meaningful to experience than the harmony of humans working together for a common purpose. It’s been said that the silence between the notes is what makes the music—these pros were like a symphony. Each knew intuitively what needed to be done and between the sounds of saws, hammering, drilling and good natured ribbing, there was the kind of silence you get when experienced builders work as a team; as James noted.

As an outsider to the profession of building/remodeling, I’m guilty of romanticizing what these guys do day-in-and-day-out; however this was different…As we watched Mike (the home owner) run his wheelchair up the ramp for the first time you could not help but be moved.

At the end of the day the team stood back to admire the work; it was beautiful. We posed for group photos and exchanged good-byes, then unceremoniously went our separate ways.

As the memories of this day will fade away (like the sore muscles and blisters) there is solace in knowing the gift of increased quality-of-life for this family, as well as nine others, will continue for many years to come.

The Mythologist Joseph Campbell once said that life is without meaning. You bring the meaning to it. Thanks to all the Ramp-a-thon participants for a meaningful weekend…

 

See
Congratulations to Susan Duncan your vision was realized: The ABCs of Accessibility inc.
If moving or retiring to Central Oregon contact Mike Davis for aging in place remodeling at TMT Home Remodelers
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