A great man once said that although character may “manifest” itself in great moments, it is usually “built” in the small ones.
The entire time we have been cutting individual boards, carrying single blocks,and driving in each nail, we have been reminded of the noble mission we have undertaken.
Personally, I have been both inspired by and impressed with my comrades – this Band of Brothers. I consider myself fortunate indeed to have been teamed with such dedicated men.
Rex (aka Fearless Leader) has shown us the ropes and looked out for us at every turn. His calm approach and work ethic make him an easy man to follow.
Ken (aka Rocky / Bruce Almighty) has kept us grounded with his sense of humor, his impersonations, and especially his musical renditions of the classics.
Rob (aka Junior / Son of a Preacher Man) has been the keeper of the “Team Spirit.” He has also been our practice dummy for first aid skills.
Jay (aka – well, he doesn’t have a nickname yet because as everyone knows, he is so quiet and rarely reveals himself). Seriously, “Bashful” has kept us all entertained with his observations on life and his opinions on all manner of topics. For instance, I learned that Dominican workers straighten and save all old nails! Why do I know that? Jay only told me that story seven times (so far)!
What more can be said about Yuri? He is all of how he’s been described to me, but multiplied times three.
Each day when I see Max, I get excited about the joy he will feel when he shows his new children their new home. Even more heartwarming, I am struck by his generosity and charity in saving a small piece of the world.
I have to thank my wonderful wife for urging me to make this trip. I have received far more in return than the meager contribution I have made. This mission has also served to remind me of how precious and beautiful our own children are.
Back to the Band of Brothers – actually, the phrase comes from Shakespeare’s Henry V (the battle of Agincourt in 1415): We few, we happy few, we band of brothers – for he that sheds his blood with me today shall be my brother.
I can say that in this life we have many acquaintances, but very few true friends. I feel blessed in that I think I have met four new friends.
I will close with another quote. This one from Miguel De Cervantes (of Don Quixote fame): Good actions enoble us, for in sense we are all the children of our own deeds.
Art Jacobs
