NYC based pilot and blogger, Scott J.
My mom used to say, “Do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” And while it’s rare to find experiences that are more meaningful and purpose-giving than making a difference in the lives of others, even more rare is the opportunity to pair doing something you love that also has meaningful purpose. The Habitat for Humanity build here in Chiang Mai is the epitome of both. Yes, our build site feels like it’s ten degrees from the center of the sun, and humidity is our constant partner, but we’re sustained by the joy and satisfaction we’re witnessing as a community grows from the ground up in mere days.
Our third day on the project was decidedly less hot and humid than the previous ones—a quite welcomed break. The first two days spent laying brick and mortar today gave way to working with steel, as we placed each metal truss that will become the roof.
The work was sometimes tedious but highly rewarding. This was the third day in a row I’ve felt the communal pride that’s formed as strangers with little knowledge of each others language unite as friends and coworkers in common purpose.
The Thai people we’ve met are of remarkable and uncommon humility and graciousness, and we all know the families are pleased with our work and progress. The Delta teams’ houses are taking shape much as the rest of the homes in the village are, albeit at a slightly faster pace than the majority. Tomorrow the shelter will be evident, and as this community of concrete, bricks and steel take shape into livable personal spaces, you witness sweat equity bringing tears to the eyes of the families—and our teams.
An anecdotal note: Thai chili peppers completely live up to their reputation! The food we’ve had on this trip has been delicious and flavorful—making Thailand worth a trip, from top to bottom, just for the love of amazing food.
Scott J., NYC based pilot