A couple weeks ago had the opportunity to take my sawmill to Western NC and give back a little. I grew up in Western NC, it's a pretty special place to me, and its where I fell in love with nature and learned to follow my natural curiosity. I enjoy helping people I don't know, selflessly helping others and sharing my gifts and talents are fulfilling to me. I feel like anyone can give money, but money doesn't always make problems go away and money doesn't always inspire people. Helping people by sharing your talents can help psychologically, both you and the receiver. Since I have been back, I've had a chance to reflect on the experience.
It made me sick when I first saw it:
As I drove around, I noticed if people lived within a couple hundred feet from a body of water it was total destruction. This included small creeks and streams as well. The post office in Micaville, NC was completely gone. The amount of destruction and debris everywhere I turned made me feel like I was in a third world country, and made me sick. I thought, how could this happen here and who is going to clean this mess up? This is a mess and nature clearly has limitless power and we sapiens still think we can outsmart and build to withstand natures fury. A definite takeaway for me was to never build anything near a body of water. As I took in the scene, I knew I needed to focus on what I was there to accomplish.
Showing humility:
Restoration of Dignity: When you offer help through your skills—like turning fallen trees into usable lumber—you empower others to rebuild their lives rather than simply receiving charity. This can restore a sense of control and self-respect.
A Sense of Hope: While I've always thought hope is a terrible strategy in life it does have a place. Practical help brings tangible progress, reinforcing the idea that setbacks can be overcome. Seeing someone use their talents to help creates an inspiring narrative of resilience.
Human Connection: Beyond the physical aid, acts of service foster a sense of community and belonging. Knowing someone genuinely cares can combat feelings of isolation or helplessness.
Rich was helping me, I will never forget him, he was so grateful to be working and have the opportunity smell the sawdust. For me as the giver:
Purpose and Fulfillment: Using your talents to help others aligns your actions with deeper values, which can foster a greater sense of purpose and personal satisfaction.
Spreading optimism: Witnessing the impact of your efforts on someone else’s well-being can boost your own mental health. It’s a reminder that your skills and time matter in a profound way.
Strengthened Community Ties: By engaging directly with others, you build lasting relationships, fostering trust and mutual support within the community.
Below is Dr. Azra Bertrand and his daughter. His property was hit pretty hard with high winds. I was amazed to see huge yellow pines pushed up hill on nearly a 30 degree slope. I was even more amazed at how they were able to cut and break the logs free from the root balls, pull the logs up hill, and stack properly.
What an amazing experience, I'm happy I have been so blessed on this journey that I have the time, knowledge and health to go out, and give back. I want to thank everyone that helped me.
Best!
Jason
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