I am a guy who enjoys doing home repair. It isn't so much that I'm cheap (well, I guess that is arguable), but I just like doing stuff myself. Along with that, I also like building projects, which forces me to use my horrible math skills (I use this word loosely) and arcane construction knowledge.
Recently, I constructed a small shed that I am particularly proud of, despite my friends referring to it as an "outhouse." It serves its purpose, which is storage of a few yard maintenance tools like my mower and weed eater, as well as several other smaller implements. Cathy named my shed Aengus the Strong after my friends ragged me for its tiny construction. To them I say, "Build it and they shall come!"
Another project that I have undertaken is the construction of a lean-to on a different shed. I realized the numerous mistakes I made along the way, including a lack of support features due to its size. Friends and family warned that it would sag in the middle, and after some pride swallowing and consideration, I realized how right they were. As such, I have modified the lean-to in order to include some additional supports to keep it from becoming a punching bag by those I consider "friends."
The purpose of this particular entry is not to espouse my spectacular knowledge of shed and lean-to construction, nor is it an effort to offer up self-congratulations each time I change out an electrical outlet, repair a leak, or change out a wax ring under a toilet (one ring to bind them). Sorry for my Tolkien reference--I do that often.
My point in penning this short post is to say that I have much respect for those people in the "trades." The construction workers, the electricians, the plumbers, the concrete finishers, block layers, etc. The masters of these tradecrafts have my undying respect and gratitude. I stand in envy of your abilities and creativity and think they are oftentimes overlooked in America for their contributions.
We like to award trophies and awards to architects for designing buildings, but rarely congratulate the people who actually laid the foundation and built the tower. These guys and gals are the ones who should be celebrated. They realize the faults in design and bring solutions. Those in the trades bring dreams to life.
The next time you encounter someone masterfully skilled in the trades, I suggest telling them how much you appreciate them. They are the reason you have a roof over your head and the ability to power up you laptop or phone. Yes, these builders are America and we should let them know how great they are.
No comments:
Post a Comment