Retirement seems like a dream that most of us can’t wait to achieve. What we fail to consider is how it will feel to stop doing something we love so much and know so well.
A crane operator learned first hand how important loving his job is when he met a man who was no longer able to work, but who still had valuable lessons to teach.
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Crane operator Shawn Beveridge was just getting into the swing of things at a new job site when he noticed that an elderly man in a wheelchair was watching his team work.
At first, he thought nothing of it. However, the days passed, and he realized that the man was a loyal visitor.
A Man Who Missed His Work
Every day, rain or shine, he would show up to the jobsite at 7am. He would leave for lunch when Shawn’s team did the same, and then only leave for the day when the work wrapped up. After a while, Shawn’s curiosity got the best of him and he went over to chat with the man.
Shawn’s quick chat with the elderly man turned into an hours-long conversation. He found out that the man was named Harold, and that he had fallen out of touch with his adult children since he’d moved into the care home close to the job site.
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Harold had worked for over 50 years as a crane operator and missed his work every day. He was getting serious enjoyment out of watching Shawn do his work every day.
Shawn described their encounter on his social media, writing: “We had a long conversation, 2 and a half hours' worth, but long story short, Harold is nearing the end. His heart valves are clogged, and some disease has been eating at him for years. (I don’t know the name of it) and when he was able to work before everything had happened to him health-wise he was a crane operator. He said he enjoys seeing what he used to love to do for a living and never thought he’d ever be able to see or be around a crane again and let alone be so close to see one in action."
The Two Men Struck a Deal and a Lesson Was Learned
Shawn wanted to help Harold make the best of his remaining time on earth, so he asked his new friend what he would like to do.
At first, Harold asked to get onto the payroll of Shawn’s company. Shawn let him know that wouldn’t be possible, but suggested a great alternative.
Shawn explained: “Our deal is this, Harold ran cranes for over 50 years and no matter how good you think you are at something there’s always more to learn. So I told Harold every day after work I’ll sit with him for a little bit so he can critique me and judge me on how I did for that day (give him something to talk about that he enjoys) while I also get to learn from him, and in return I would bring him a black coffee every morning for as long as I’m here and buy him lunch twice a week from wherever he chooses…”
Of course, Harold happily accepted Shawn’s deal. Over the next few weeks, the two learned a lot and enjoyed each other’s company.
Shawn and Harold’s connection is a lesson for us all: we all have a purpose. Whether that is our work or helping make someone’s remaining days as pleasant as possible– no purpose is better than another. Everyone’s contribution is important and can make the world a better place.
Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.