Everyone we encounter in our life is there to teach us a lesson, and is an opportunity for us to teach a lesson. This is why the Hebrew word “to teach” is spelled the same as the word “to learn.” When we teach another we learn so much through the process and when we learn something and ask questions, we become the teacher. Not only did Shawn and Harold learn that they have so much to give and receive from each other, but their friendship shows that the seemingly smallest action, like saying hello, can lead to huge changes in each other’s lives. And even more importantly, never delay in reaching out to someone today if you can. We never know how many more opportunities we will have…
This is Shawn’s story:
This is my friend Harold! Not the guy in the man lift but the one behind him in the wheelchair on the sidewalk. He stays in the nursing home across the street from where we’re building. Since day 1 when I arrived on this job site I’ve noticed him sitting there every morning from 7am he takes lunch when we do and doesn’t leave until I shut the crane down and head out. I originally had thought to myself, “he’s just a curious old man and wanting to enjoy his days outside vs being cooped up in his room.” Well after a couple days, I myself got curious, so I walked over and introduced myself to him. We had a long conversation, 2 and a half hours worth, but long story short Harold is nearing the end. His heart valves are clogged and some disease has been eating at him for years. ( I don’t know the name of it) and when he was able to work before everything had happened to him health wise he was a crane operator. He said he enjoys seeing what he use to love to do for a living and never thought he’d ever be able to see or be around a crane again and let alone be so close to see one in action. He has family, 2 daughters and a son who haven’t seen him for the last 7 years he’s been in a nursing home. So I made Harold an a deal! He originally wanted to be put on payroll 😂 as I explained to him that wasn’t possible I quickly came to what I thought was a fair agreement. Our deal is this, Harold ran cranes for over 50 years and no matter how good you think you are at something there’s always more to learn. So I told Harold every day after work I’ll sit with him for a little bit so he can critique me and judge me on how I did for that day (give him something to talk about that he enjoys) while I also get to learn from him and In return I would bring him a black coffee every morning for as long as I’m here and buy him lunch twice a week from wherever he chooses….. he didn’t skip a beat before ABSOLUTELY! came out of his mouth ❤️ I guess I’m writing this post bc if i would have never walked over to him i would have never gotten to know him. I’m thankful to have the opportunity to make this mans last days enjoyable. Filled with purpose and to be able to help him smile again. I challenge any of you on here to not be like I was in the beginning and don’t be afraid to make someone else’s day better. Always try to enlighten someone’s spirits. When God chooses to take this man home I’m happy knowing that I’ve been placed here at this location to make his days better. I’m happy with that❤️ (Facebook page: Shawn Beveridge)
Source: Facebook page of Shawn Beveridge
