As we are debating hugely on the issue of the National Cathedrals, let me tell you about the story of a far more impressive cathedral. The Cathedral of Milan!
Commonly known as Duomo di Milano the Cathedral of Milan is the largest Gothic Cathedral in the World. It spans a length of 157 meters, an area of 11,700 m2 and a capacity of more than 40,000 people. Aside from its ornate features, the cathedral of Milan houses another impressive feat. It was built within a span of 500 years! 500 GOOD YEARSSSSSSS!
Side note: Gothic cathedrals are churches / religious buildings created in Europe between the mid-12th century and the beginning of the 16th century. They are largely characterized by 5 key architectural elements: large stained glass windows, pointed arches, rib vaults, flying buttresses, and ornate decoration.
But my message today isn't about grandeur. It is about the lowliness of the labourers who built it. In his "Letter From The Cathedral Of Milan," Bill Shore is quoted as saying
"When construction commenced on the Milan Cathedral, craftsmen came from across Europe stonecutters, sculptors, master masons, blacksmiths and carpenters and cooperated to an unprecedented degree. While nobles made large financial donations, contributions came from all citizens, sharing whatever their strengths happened to be. Weavers, bakers, butchers, tanners, millers, and fishermen took turns donating their services, without salary, as did physicians and apothecaries. It is said the Vicar worked in the stone yard. Groups of young women dressed in white went through town and countryside collecting offerings."
A lot of input came from a lot of people from all walks of life but you would realise that the people who built the cathedral in that 500-year span largely went unnamed. Their efforts weren't even acknowledged individually but in groups. Weavers, bakers, butchers, tanners, millers, fishermen and what have you. The world might not necessarily pick you out to acknowledge you, but it doesn't mean that you shouldn't put in your best.
Your seemingly insignificant hammering of the nails in the cathedral's window frames would probably go unnoticed, the water you fetched for the concrete mixing would not be remembered, and even worse, the concrete you lifted as a "kpɔnkpɔ" labourer would be deemed insignificant! But still, give in your best!
My message today goes to the unknown, the workers in the background, the lowest-ranked people. You are loved and appreciated. Your work is needed to run things. Do not despair, you are relevant. Your unseen works and doings make great and mighty things possible.
Don't give up. True, your name might not be on the huge plagues and acknowledgement documents, but here's the assurance. Your work would not go unnoticed. The cathedral cannot be built without your strength and effort!
To all the superhero dads out there, true, we might not acknowledge you or your input in our lives, but we really really really love you! This is to you. Happy Fathers Day!
