Word of the Day: Ambition

The biggest difference between our projects in Arkansas and Texas is definitely the feeling of accomplishment that they bring. In Texas, we were basically told that our work is very much appreciated, but there are enough salt cedar trees to cut down to last the next 25 years. What we did for them was important, but when put in perspective, it was miniscule.

In Arkansas, on the other hand, we have a list of projects that, when completed, have tangible results. From building stairs on the trail to clearing park areas and starting giant fires, from building tent pads and bridges to cleaning up tools and the maintenance shop, our progress can be seen throughout the park. For the very first set of stairs that we completed, I was lucky to be there from beginning to end. When we finally finishes, I compared the feeling of accomplishment to having received my Bachelor's degree. I know it sounds pretty crazy, but building something from the ground up, something that people will use for years to come, something that I can point to and say "I made that," brings a great sense of accomplishment.

Our first staircase project at Lake Ouachita State Park

We spend the days working in a beautiful state park, the backdrop for our project sites ranging from views of Lake Ouachita to the parts of the forest that were destroyed by the 2010 tornado. Even then, it's still amazing to be outdoors, in the sunlight, making coal baked potatoes for a snack. In addition to having a variety of great projects to work on, we also have the best trail crew and maintenance crew I could have asked for. They're helpful, funny, and they have yet to judge me on how I have absolutely no idea what I am doing with power tools 95% of the time. However, five weeks into the project and I have used a chainsaw, chopped wood, used drills and a whole variety of saws, and am an expert on ensuring things are level!

Typical Sunday morning - chopping some firewood

The last few weeks have really made me realize how unfit I am for the cubicle lifestyle that seems to be shoved down our throats as the only option for success. It takes the people in the white collar workforce years to have an office with a window, and they will be lucky if the only thing they see is not the wall of another building. In the blue collar world on the other hand, you get to work in a relaxing environment, set your own pace, and avoid the stress that comes with your boss breathing down your neck.

Finishing up our first trail bridge :)

First bridge and second staircase, completed

Interestingly enough, making half in an entire day than I used to make in an hour, I am happier than I ever was. I suppose a part of it has to do with the absence of work-associated stress, but most of it can be credited to a constant shift in my priorities. Those who know me best know that I was never one to think that material things will bring happiness, but I never had a chance to truly attempt that lifestyle until now. Living on the strict AmeriCorps budget while paying student loans has brought my weekly allowed spending to around $20 - enough for a cup of good coffee in exchange for some free wi-fi, some sour patch kids, and one item I decide to splurge on. Last week, it was a yoga mat and a new deck of Magic cards (yes, I am now a nerd). This week? We'll see.

Another question that remains unanswered - why does society dictate our lives in a way that makes us believe that we have to be cubicle slaves to be successful? Why are so many people turned into zombies that go about their daily lives without experiencing all the beauty this world has to offer?

Namaste :)