Sometimes, you’re the first one there – clearing rubble, naming the problem, laying the foundation.
Sometimes, you’re the one holding the line – fixing what breaks, keeping the standard from slipping.
And sometimes, you’re the one who walks away, exhausted, wondering if it made any difference at all.
But it did.
Because culture isn’t just what you build.
It’s what remains after you’re no longer there to fight for it.
You’ve probably heard the old story:
A traveler passes three laborers at work.
“What are you doing?” the traveler asks.
“I’m hauling rocks,” says the first.
“I’m building a wall,” says the second.
The third one wipes their brow and says,
“I’m building a cathedral.”
Accessibility can feel like hauling rocks.
It’s repetitive. Frustrating. Thankless.
You’re pushing for change that’s long overdue.
Fixing things you didn’t break.
Writing guidance no one reads.
Chasing problems no one else sees.
But if you’re building something bigger – something that lasts – then every rock matters.
You might leave before the tower rises.
You might never see the stained glass go in.
You might not even know whose lives got better because of your work.
But the foundation is stronger because you were there.
The culture is kinder.
The path is clearer.
Remember:
When it feels Sisyphean, when you’re tired, unseen, or ready to give up… you’re not just hauling rocks.
You’re building a cathedral that will stand long after you’re gone.
So go haul some rocks.
We’ve got cathedrals to build.
KID, YOU’LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!
Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting.
So…get on your way!Oh the Places You’ll Go