2011年7月24日星期日

It's The Little Things That Count

Trying to wrap your mind around the scope of the destruction left behind in the wake of the April 27 tornado is almost impossible. So today was spent on the little things both figuratively and literally.Prior to Aion Kinah I leaned toward the former,


The day got started with a clinic for nearly 20 underprivileged kids who were displaced by the tornado. With a big assist from Holly Hart and her Toomer's for Tuscaloosa group, we met the kids at a local high school for some football, friendship and fun.he believes the fire started after the lift's hydraulic hose blew,


Three hours later, I think it's safe to say that both groups came away all the better for the experience.These girls have never had a Cold Sore in their lives!The additions focus on key tag and plastic card combinations, The kids picked up some football fundamentals while hearing from the players about the hard work, dedication and the necessity of staying on the right path in order to achieve your goals and dreams. Meanwhile, the players saw firsthand that you can't ever take anything for granted and to cherish your blessings.There are RUBBER MATS underneath mattresses,


After saying goodbye to the very appreciative kids and signing quite a few autographs, the players headed across town for one last volunteer activity through Temporary Emergency Services. On a wall in the orientation area, there was a map showing the various cities, states and countries from which the scores of volunteers had come over the past three months. It was truly humbling to add our names to the list.


Just as we had the day before, we had the great fortune of working with another group of fine people. Our work today reminded us of all the little day-to-day items that most of us take for granted. We spent the afternoon sorting boxes in a warehouse that included everything from clothes, to bedding, to bottled water all of which had been donated. We even hauled 15 bags of stuffed animals from another location.


Helping build a house was a special opportunity Friday, but in many ways today was just as eye opening because it drove home the reality that thousands of people, while fortunate to escape the storm with their lives, lost everything they had.


After a quick tour of the University of Alabama campus, including a stop at Bryant-Denny Stadium where the Golden Flashes and Crimson Tide will square off on Sept. 3, it was back to the hotel for a shower and some down time.


Then it was off to Dreamland for the only part of the day that wasn't little. An iconic part of the Tuscaloosa landscape, Dreamland serves up hearty portions of ribs, sweet tea and quite possibly the best banana pudding you'll find anywhere.


As we have for the past two days, we encountered a number of people in the restaurant who were extremely grateful for what we were doing. It was truly heartwarming to hear their comments and really reinforced that while our contribution was a seemingly small one, it was making a difference in the lives of many.


As the table next to us got up to leave, one of the gentlemen said "Roll Tide and Go Flashes!" Thanks to all the wonderful people we've encountered over the past couple of days for making us feel right at home. It's an experience we'll never forget.

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