At 85 years old, Ron has lived a full and meaningful life. He has had many rich relationships and wonderful times, but also has experienced significant pain and suffering. Ron’s journey of facing his own grief and wrestling through the challenge to forgive has helped shape him into a kind and caring man.

Life’s experiences have made Ron a teacher. Not a typical teacher with a classroom and curriculum, though. Ron’s classroom is ordinary, everyday life and his curriculum flows from who he is—his character, values, and wisdom. This is one of his lessons:

For many years, Ron has enjoyed woodworking. He has used his skills to do many projects. He has built decks, cabinets, doorways and even remodeled an addition. This craft has meant a great deal to Ron for a long time. It’s no surprise that it wasn’t easy for Ron to realize that, as he grew older, there were some things he wasn’t able to do when it came to his passion of woodworking.

Recently, Ron heard about Open Door’s need for some wooden doorstops. As a person who cares deeply for this place, Ron is always looking for ways to help out. With a smile on his face he recalled what he thought when he heard about this need; “While there is a lot that I can’t do anymore…I can do that!” The next week, he presented Open Door with twenty of the best doorsteps ever created—perfectly fit to the doors and even exact staining to match the rest of the building.

Ron says, “I want to be part of the church…not just someone who goes to church! Because, when you are part of something, you develop a love for it.” In this case, being a part of the church meant hearing a need and saying, “YES!”

We can all learn from this simple lesson from a wonderful man, teaching us that no matter our ability, age or aptitude, we can be part of something bigger than ourselves—even in the smallest of ways.

If you see Ron, say “hi”, ask to hear his story and don’t forget to thank him for his little gift that literally makes us Church of the Open Door.