Jerry Fricke and I have made a pretty good team. Our work has been consistent all week. We have been digging a two-stage septic system. In essence, we’re digging a couple of pretty deep holes. One is about four feet wide and will go, upon completion, to about 18 feet! The second, which has been our primary job, is the larger square hole.  It is about eight feet long by five feet wide and about five and a half feet deep. It has been pretty intense work.  We break up the heavy clay with a pick axe and then shovel and toss. Think of it as an extreme workout…

Many in the group offered to spell us, but Jerry and I took a lot of ownership of this project. By day three, we nearly had the large hole complete when it was quitting time. Jerry and I pleaded that none of the “professionals” finish it after we left. When we returned this morning we were able to finish the task. We felt so happy and satisfied that such a big job was done. Our team was so supportive of us. We felt bolstered by their enthusiasm every scoop of the way!

Habitat for Humanity works to ensure that each family has a sense of ownership for their home. Families put in “sweat equity” as part of the process. We got to meet the homeowner and even visit their current home. Most houses are very humble in the Gesemani neighborhood in which we are working. Dirt floors, open air walls and no modern facilities are the norm. I sense how much this family is ready to make their house a home.

Management experts understand that a sense of “ownership” is vital for success. We are seeing this in El Salvador. Our entire team is living this in El Salvador. When we leave, our love will stay and we will have received so much that will fill the hole in our heart.

~Pastor Greg Bouvier