(VIDEO) Shut up and Rake

Click on Inspirational Video at the bottom of this page...  

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HYANNIS- Drove around our “city of contrasts” yesterday seeking inspiration…  It seems like it’s rough times ahead for the people of Hyannis, especially if you don’t have a job or are homeless.  Visited all areas of town to see if there were any answers to this situation and concluded that if you don’t already have a job that pays a livable wage, it would be highly unlikely to find one here locally.

For myself and other business people the future doesn’t seem too bright either after what appears to have been a slow summer season for many.

About ten years ago I found myself technically homeless in the Fall after winning shared physical custody of my daughter and a pit-bull terrier during a battle at Barnstable “Family Courts.”  I also managed to walk away from the proceedings with an old ten dollar rake and a tarp, along with an old white pick-up truck... I was younger then and free, the future seemed wide open... and it still does!

I knew then that it would be nearly impossible to find a job that would pay a livable wage so I took to raking leaves for a living.  It barely paid the bills, but I managed to find a roof for my daughter and dog "News Mutt"… it was a miracle.

Today, things are not much different… looking forward to a long Cape winter with a rake, tarp, daughter, and dog.  Inspiration has been the major key to my success. 

I love writing for Hyannis News and that will continue as long as I’m able.

As for inspiration I look to the homeless and disenfranchised, people who have lost everything, even hope... and I feel blessed that my hands can still hold a rake.

I look at the contrasts that this town has to offer.

The “haves” and “the have-nots.”

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These realities motivate me for some reason.

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Hard work has always been my dearest friend.

I pray for good health and dry leaves.

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May you find yourself today with hope, hard work, and able hands.

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I know it's not easy but prayer, hope, and a sturdy rake have never failed me! 

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God bless.