These old boots were made for ... everything
As I was lacing up my old boots the other week, ready to clear the snow from the latest Nor’easter, I couldn’t help but think about the adventures these old boots have seen. These rugged steel-toed beauties were originally purchased for my first trip to West Virginia as part of the Appalachian Service Project mission trip a decade ago.
I was told I needed rugged boots in preparation for the unexpected. A quick-moving copperhead or a stubborn wooden joist, uncooperative in its removal, or perhaps a large arachnid or the unforgiving terrain on which some of the construction sites are located — a good pair of steel-toed boots would definitely come in handy in each of those cases.
Since this trip was for just one week out of each year, I was advised to try the local thrift shop when purchasing my gear. So off I went, dubious that I’d be able to find what I needed and in my size.
But, miracle of miracles, there they were — an unused pair of steel-toed hiking boots in a petite size 6, all for the modest sum of $3. Thus began our journey together — me and my boots. We were obviously meant to be.
These old boots have walked many a weary mile in the execution of hard work and adventure. They were fearless and, by default, made me fearless, too. I have always felt empowered in these old
boots, like I could conquer the world. I become a warrior and show no fear even when faced with daunting tasks.
I can remember demolishing rotting walls and pulling apart decrepit joists, extracting moldy asbestos insulation and digging postholes in the rockiest of terrain. I recall replacing ceilings and handling a variety of power tools. These old boots have been muddied, saturated, covered with sawdust and drywall dust, paint-splattered and battered. And with every adventure, they came out with just a little more character.
These old boots tell a story. They are a reflection of the best part of me — the part who is willing to give to others, to sacrifice and work hard to improve the lives of people in need.
When I look at these
boots, I have to smile. The long days put in while wearing these old boots resulted in many aches and pains and blisters and scrapes. But mostly, long days in these boots resulted in a joy that is nearly unmatched. It is a joy that comes in giving. It is a happiness that comes in generosity.
The best part is that I know our adventures will continue. There are more houses to repair, more snow to remove, more gardens to till, miles and miles of ground to cover. Together. Me and my old boots.
We await 2021 and better times. How about you? Ready to break new ground in the new year? Just don your favorite footwear and make some strides!
A happy and healthy and safe New Year to you all!