inHABIThAT

I recently took a position with Habitat for Humanity, and I have to say that it is the coolest job on the planet! It combines the best aspects of construction (skilled craftsmanship, manly tools, working outside) and the best aspects of the non-profit world (helping others to better themselves, sustainibilty, job satisfaction), and it attracts quality people in the process - people who give of themselves for no other reason than it's right to do so - people who aren't simply collecting a paycheck - people who may be at a disadvantage but who have the integrity to not simply put their hand out for what they think they are entitled to, but rather agree to give considerable time and effort to the task of bettering their lives, and the lives of those in similar circumstances (after their required "sweat equity" is completed, home owners often continue to volunteer with Habitat).
A month ago I was doing commercial construction for a company that put profit above all else, and while it allowed for increased responsibility and career growth, I was completely miserable. Now I work for a company that puts meeting people's needs above all else, and while it also allows for increased responsibility and career growth, it fosters empathy and personal growth and I can't imagine wanting to do anything else. It's neat to build a house. It's fun to use power tools. It's great working with men and women who aren't convicted felons, and don't cuss every second word or blow cigarette smoke in your face, and who really care about what's going on in their world - enough to give of their time or even pass on the promise of greater riches to shovel dirt or drive nails or haul concrete. It's humbling to see a person work their butt off to build their own home and in turn regain their sense of pride, and it's awesome to be a part of it.