A Day With Habitat!!!
On the morning of March 23, 2002 a group from Open Door Believer’s Chapel gathered at a Benbow Street address in Belize City. Our group varied from the young to the “young at heart”, males and females, students, teachers, accountants, secretaries and such. Despite our professions and schooling, we gathered for a different type of work - a work none of us were experienced in - CONSTRUCTION WORK!
We had all volunteered our time, strength and energies in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, to assist with the construction of a house. Even though we knew nothing of constructing a house we had genuine hearts and willing spirits to help this family build their home. So under the direction of two skilled architects we set to work.
Of our group, some were taught to mix cement (took a few tries but they got it!), others to cut steel, and some laid blocks. My first task was shovelling sand. We were instructed to move a heap-pile of sand from the side of the street where it was, into the yard. “Piece of cake,” I thought. Was I ever wrong! After filling the first wheelbarrow I felt my arm cramping. It was hard work! And the pile seemed to grow instead of decreasing. We had to try different tactics, so we started a competition. We formed two groups and raced to see which team could fill their wheelbarrow with sand first. It was a very exciting and hilarious game! I must say that my team was the ultimate champion (Ms. Arana, Ceis, Steph), despite the efforts and opinion of the other team (Sandra & company)J Before we knew it, more than half of the sand pile was gone. With the sun beating our backs, and sweat pouring down our faces due to our hard labour, we were forced to take several ‘5 minute’ breaks. Thank God for water!
We had hardly been out there for two hours and already our once energized group was looking sluggish! This construction business was definitely harder than we thought. I was certainly feeling weary so I moved on to a new task. The construction professional showed me how to “fill” the gaps in the cement blocks after they were laid. I learned certain techniques to get the cement mixture moist enough to make the job easier. This task was messy but fun. I was so absorbed in my work, I hadn’t realized it was noon. Was I ever so thankful for the burgers we were provided with (thank you Sister Yvette).
The food and the shade did us all well - almost too well. It took real effort to go back to work, but we did. We finished removing the sand from the street, laying another row of blocks, filling and such. Around 2 p.m., we were all ready to retire. We had a fun day, learned a lot and got a good work out. We said our goodbyes and gave our thanks to our supervisors. We all walked with something in common, besides our achy muscles and corned palms! We all have a new found respect from construction workers. I never imagined that the job was so difficult. We had ONE day of hard labour and barely survived.
I am now so amazed at those who do this for a living. They have the strength and stamina that is beyond most ordinary people.
As I reflect on that day, I smile and remember how much fun we had. The fun and feeling of accomplishment far outweighed the sweat and labour. I definitely encourage anyone who would like to volunteer their time to do good for our community and for a family, to work with Habitat for Humanity. (They always need volunteers.) The job is a lot of work but it is loads of fun and you feel great after contributing to a family’s home. Even if shovelling sand is not your deal, you could contribute by giving a mug of juice and some sandwiches. It will be greatly appreciated. (I know!)
There are some things you should know before you go to work, however. I had to learn certain things the hard way:
And it is always more fun if you’re working with a group of friends.
I will always remember my construction experience and will definitely volunteer again. Hats off to Habitat for Humanity, and to all the construction workers and volunteers!