Rising Above the Flood: A Stonemason’s Plea for Westfield
How a Life of Crafting Beauty Leads to a Call for Urgent Action
Folks, I’ve had a good run. My life’s been all about making things with my hands—stonework, masonry, building. It’s the kind of work that puts a smile on your face and sunshine in your soul. I’m well aware that I’m one of the fortunate ones.
But let me take you back a few years to White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. I went down there to help out after a major flood had ripped through the town. They’ve managed to rebuild since then, but I still remember walking into a local diner and seeing three first responders, caked in mud from head to toe. These folks had been through the wringer, doing the kind of work that makes you appreciate just how tough some people’s jobs are.
Now, I’ve spent my life focused on creating beautiful things, but I know there are a lot of people out there whose work takes them into some pretty dark places—fires, floods, disasters. They’re essential, and they’re doing a job most of us would rather not dwell on too much. And frankly, I get it. It’s not exactly the stuff of pleasant dreams.
Usually, I keep things light-hearted, sharing tales about my latest stone project or the odd adventure on the road. But every once in a while, reality steps in and gives you a good shake.
Just this past August 5th, I was at home during Hurricane Debbie, kicking back with a good book and a solid cup of coffee. Out of nowhere, my phone starts blowing up with news of flooding in Tioga County, Pennsylvania. Now, I was born in West Virginia, but Pennsylvania’s got a firm hold on my heart, too. When I heard that several towns in Tioga County were underwater, with folks stranded on rooftops waiting for rescue, it hit me hard.
So, this isn’t my usual kind of post, but I’m asking you, my fellow humans, to join me in supporting the efforts to rebuild the town of Westfield. These are good people who didn’t ask for much out of life, and they sure didn’t ask for this. They just got up every day, did their work, and lived simple lives. Now they need a hand.
There’s an organization out there raising money to get these folks back on their feet. They’re not padding their pockets or buying fancy cars—they’re putting every cent toward helping the people who need it most. So do me a favor: click the link below and chip in whatever you can. Even if it’s just a few bucks, it’ll make a world of difference.
Thanks, folks.