“Maybe you’re
right, but maybe it will be different. It’s okay to be different; your family
will always be a part of who you are no matter what.”
“You see, Michael, think of this
lesson like a building. In many ways buildings have changed. In many ways
buildings have remained the same. Sometimes a vision changes and that’s okay, but,
it is important to appreciate the past as we create the future, because the
past is a part of what makes the future.”
“So Grandpa, I
don’t have to do exactly what Daddy did to be like Daddy? Construction is
teaching me a lot!”
“Yes, that is exactly right. That is why
construction is so much fun for myself and many others. Another important
lesson comes from giving back to the community by doing more than just
construction. The community has given us so much, our giving back to the
community in more ways than one helps to create a healthy future.”
“How did you contribute to the community,
Grandpa?”
“I found a
company that had the same values as I did. That is why I worked with PCL for
many decades. We did many things to contribute to the community; I have some
really good stories I can tell you about if you would like.”
The boy smiled, “I would love that!”
“I remember it
like it was yesterday. My friends and I at work used to challenge each other to
see who could raise the most money towards projects in the community. The best
part was that PCL would match what my coworkers and I raised dollar for dollar.”
The grandfather continues with pride.
“I could tell you many stories about all of
the smiles. Some of my most valuable memories come from my time spent with PCL.
Raising money for projects in the community was important to each and every one
of us. We would sponsor safe places to play for children, and even gazebos for
the seniors at the seniors’ homes, kind of like where Great-grandma and Great-grandpa
are now.”
“Grandpa, I think Mom and Dad would really
like these stories too.”
“You’re right, in
fact since they are joining us for Canada’s 150th anniversary celebration at
Parliament hill, your Dad can tell you even more stories of PCL’s history. Ask
him to tell you about the fin from the Canadian War Museum that points directly
towards the Peace Tower at Centre Block right on Parliament Hill. He may even
have more stories than I do. He has learned a lot from his 20 years spent with
PCL too.”
The End