Construction

Two things that I've learned from my new experience as a construction volunteer:

1. There WILL be blood
2. You learn something new every time

Safety is a top priority but it's nearly impossible that someone doesn't get a small scratch or cut on the work site. One day I wasn't even doing anything and I got scratched by some wood that was being moved. It's almost humorous. I looked at a guy's leg and told him he was bleeding. He barely looked at the spot and just shrugged. I think in the grand scheme of things the blood just represents that you put your whole self out there. Construction is a full body experience. There are more serious injuries that occur and that's not a laughing matter. However, the small things just come with the territory.

The most fun part about the work is learning new things. Since we are literally building an entire neighborhood there is always so much to learn about. No question [about the work or process] is off limits. Some days I learn about the ground and tress other days I learn about why you put vinyl siding on in a specific way. Some days I've learned multiple names that one tool has. I've learned about home care and maintenance. It's really incredible how much you can soak up by being around so many different people. We tell volunteers you don't have to know much and it's true because there are always so many other people around who have such a wealth of knowledge.

Oh and lastly, even though this isn't on my list, your SHOES will get dirty! I've managed to keep my body pretty clean in terms of paint and stains (no guarantees though). However, in 12 months even if I'm just coming to pick up papers I cannot escape the site without getting my shoes dirty and it's so annoying. Once I watched a reporter get her 3 inch heels stuck in the mud. Tisk tisk. It's like the ground has devised a rite of passage saying if you tread here you will remember it for the rest of the day.

The best is yet to come,
~Adwoa