I represent the tin man character this evening because I can draw a lot of parallels from him to our YMCA of the Coastal Bend. Our YMCA in the Coastal Bend Area actually has history dating back to 1886, formally chartered in 1939 and our YMCA building in which we are currently housed in has a rich history, the cornerstone is inscribed 1942. The building, like the Tin Man…is aging and rusted, yet so revered. Tin Man needs to be oiled and this life-giving oil has to be pumped “by others” to keep him moving and flexible or else he is stuck and alone…From the moment you step foot into the YMCA…you receive that motivation…that vital oil, pumped by others, encouragement to keep moving. No matter your age, religion, socio-economic status…or what you are here to participate in…swimming, basketball, cooking class, body pump, childcare, we are surrounded by a team of supportive individuals so we are never stuck. In fact, we all need others, I feel that God created us to be social, to need one another…underlying themes throughout the Wizard of Oz and at the YMCA & we can all feel Like We Belong.
The Tin Man, kind and gentle…always searching for a heart. That was the Tin Man’s weakness…He felt that without a heart that he was hollow. Remember how he knocked on his chest and there was an echo?
The YMCA, even though a revered building, standing strong on the hill withstanding hurricanes…so mighty…it’s still just a hollow building.
It’s the people of the YMCA that give it heart. Our great founders had the vision, strength and wisdom to carry out the very mission work that we still do today. The members…from a goal of 300 back then to nearly 3,000 today. The Board Members with a Budget of $360 Back then to a Budget of $1.5 Million today. Our Staff that carry out the vital programming with the areas of focus of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility…
The Tin Man doesn’t realize how he gives so selfishly and instinctively. He touches the lives of nearly everyone he meets with genuine generosity and loving kindness. Can you see our YMCA’ s heart there?
“It’s not where you go, it’s who you meet along the way.” The Wizard of Oz
George Roesler the YMCA General Secretary in 1939 wrote an article published in the Caller Times. “The youths of Corpus Christi are ready to assume any fair financial charge for the services the YMCA offers. But if the group which needs our programs most is to be able to participate, the community must provide part of the cost. The services of the Y have been needed and the youths of the community have amply demonstrated their readiness to engage in the activities provided. The Y was created to be a new outpost for character building in Corpus Christi and the results attained the first year of service have justified the faith of those unselfish leaders who have given their time, energy, influence and money to make it a reality. Under the leadership of our able Board of Directors, our Young Men’s Christian Association is destined to serve increased numbers of boys and young men who seek to grow in spirit, mind and body.” Mr. Roesler, by the mercy of God, I stand here 85 years later reading your words. Thank you.