Client 76: Learning to Learn
“I’m learning more about myself every day. I don’t care how old I get, I never want to stop learning.” - David
When we met David, client #76, what stood out was not his stage of life or his circumstances. It was his willingness to grow.
David came to OnRamp DFW through his advocate Latavia at Metrocare. As an older adult living on a fixed income, getting into a new vehicle after his other one finally went kaput was not simple. His budget left little room for an unexpected car payment or the ongoing costs of keeping an unreliable vehicle on the road.
Without a vehicle for over 2 years, everyday life became considerably more difficult. Like most of our clients, David endured long hours of travel by foot out in the Texas heat. Getting to work, attending medical appointments, and taking care of the everyday needs of himself and his wife required planning, patience, and sacrifice.
David is remarkably articulate and thoughtful. He listens carefully to the people around him, including those who challenge him or encourage him to make changes. Rather than settling into the idea that he has lived long enough to know everything he needs to know, he remains interested in learning and developing.
There is something remarkable about that kind of humility.
Life can make us more comfortable in our routines. We can become resistant to change or assume that growth belongs to younger people. David seems to have chosen a different path. He remains curious, receptive, and determined to make the most of the years ahead.
A New Chapter
On giveaway day, David received a Toyota Corolla generously donated to OnRamp DFW.
The significance of the car goes beyond simply having a reliable way to get around. For David, it means being able to continue working, make necessary medical appointments, and care for his wife without the physical and logistical burden that came with relying on public transportation.
David told us that at his stage of life, independence can look different than it did when he was younger. It may not mean chasing bigger opportunities or starting over. Sometimes, it means having the ability to keep doing the things that matter: working, caring for your spouse, taking care of yourself, and continuing to learn.
David, we are excited to welcome you into the OnRamp DFW family, and can’t wait to see how you use this vehicle in the years to come.
