Lindsay Marciniec's Blog - March 2009
I cannot believe this is our last day here. I feel like I've spent a lifetime with these people. It, all in all, has been an amazingly rewarding experience, and I have met so many amazing people. It is so great to go somewhere and be surrounded by like-minded people in terms of wanting to give back to the community.
While I'm exhausted and falling asleep at random times, I am so not ready to leave. This is definitely something I could see myself doing for the rest of my life. Not building ramps (because I would go through all too many drill bits) but definitely being involved with non-profits and being out in the community, grassroots level.
There is nothing better than to say that I have helped someone gain his independence by building a ramp allowing him to get out and do some things on his own. I remember when I was a senior in high school, 4 years ago, getting foot surgery and not being able to do anything on my own. Being constantly dependent on other people to do everything for me was the worst feeling I have ever felt. Being able to do things for myself and be independent once I healed was amazing. I cannot imagine how it felt for Jason, being in a wheelchair for a much longer period of time than my healing when I had my foot surgery. To be able to get out and do things for himself will be great for him. For myself to be able to be a part of this has been a fantastic experience.
Recreating the image of Detroit has also been very important to me. Like Jeanette pointed out behind the Spirit of Detroit, the emblem inspired by the Detroit fire which says that once again Detroit will rise from it's ashes. I feel like this story of rebirth and recreation is a parallel with my life. I have a tattoo of a Phoenix, referring to my own rebirth from it's ashes, bursting into flames. This is why this has touched me, because I have been able to be a part of dismantling the current image of Detroit. We all have done very positive things in Detroit this week with ASB. We have all contributed to the rebirth of the city. And, we should all be very proud of that.
While I'm exhausted and falling asleep at random times, I am so not ready to leave. This is definitely something I could see myself doing for the rest of my life. Not building ramps (because I would go through all too many drill bits) but definitely being involved with non-profits and being out in the community, grassroots level.
There is nothing better than to say that I have helped someone gain his independence by building a ramp allowing him to get out and do some things on his own. I remember when I was a senior in high school, 4 years ago, getting foot surgery and not being able to do anything on my own. Being constantly dependent on other people to do everything for me was the worst feeling I have ever felt. Being able to do things for myself and be independent once I healed was amazing. I cannot imagine how it felt for Jason, being in a wheelchair for a much longer period of time than my healing when I had my foot surgery. To be able to get out and do things for himself will be great for him. For myself to be able to be a part of this has been a fantastic experience.
Recreating the image of Detroit has also been very important to me. Like Jeanette pointed out behind the Spirit of Detroit, the emblem inspired by the Detroit fire which says that once again Detroit will rise from it's ashes. I feel like this story of rebirth and recreation is a parallel with my life. I have a tattoo of a Phoenix, referring to my own rebirth from it's ashes, bursting into flames. This is why this has touched me, because I have been able to be a part of dismantling the current image of Detroit. We all have done very positive things in Detroit this week with ASB. We have all contributed to the rebirth of the city. And, we should all be very proud of that.
INTENSE. My one word to describe today. Twas the first day on site. I've been freezing, toes so cold they hurt, but it was all SO worth it. A great thing about this trip thus far has been the humor of my group, it has been incredibly encouraging during the intense cold. It gives you that extra push you need. I feel like many of us really bonded today, I feel really comfortable around just about anyone here. Because I know we are all like minded people, we are all here for the same reason. To help someone in need.
While building the ramp, I anticipate things to come along nicely - but the most difficult part I think was likely today. Just getting the basic things ready. Lots of leveling of the ground, and I hammered nails like I've never done before. I'm looking forward to the days ahead.
Pizza has never tasted so good.
While building the ramp, I anticipate things to come along nicely - but the most difficult part I think was likely today. Just getting the basic things ready. Lots of leveling of the ground, and I hammered nails like I've never done before. I'm looking forward to the days ahead.
Pizza has never tasted so good.
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