3 Years Ago Today the Project Started

Submitted by victory_red_SS on Fri, 05/22/2009 - 18:40.

I realized that it has been three years ago today that I took the engine out of my car. It is hard to believe how much crap I have gone through in the past 3 years because of this project.

It is just as hard to believe all of the friends I have made on different forums and all the support that I have received, especially when this project has beaten me down.

I have received countless emails and PM's. Many have thanked me for the project and some have cussed me out because I am an idiot for doing this project.

I have been called many things and now I would like to share a post from a forum member. This quote and my response really touch on a lot about how I feel.

I want to share this from another forum. Forgive me for the long reply.

italianjoe1 wrote:
Rod, i'm very sorry to hear that this is the situation, I do understand, doing something as awesome as you have in mind is never a cheap undertaking, i've seen restoration/customization builds easily run into the hundreds of thousands, the money adds up quick. For most people, it just isn't realistic to keep throwing the money at what seems like a losing proposition.

Personally, I would want to see the car completed for your own mental health, just realizing the dream you have had for this car would be a reward for you that none of us could truly appreciate or understand. Hate to see something like this get cut down, especially due to a shop like that main one, making things worse on you. I wish you all the best, I hope this car does not die.

That one highlighted line sums it all up for me, this truly is a lifelong dream of mine.

I have always wanted a car that would be really fast, not just quick. I have had quick but nothing has ever made me go, WoW!

I have always driven every vehicle I have had to it's limit and I would always think that someday, I would have that really fast, rubber eating, power crazy, jaw dropping monster.

__________ really has stomped on my dream and I will never forget that.
I don't want this dream, my car, to die. I will never get this chance again.

Every once in a while I get an email or PM telling me that I am a pioneer, an innovator, a visionist. I even had one yesterday that said I was a hero for keeping the dream alive for those who can't do something like this.

I would never say I was a hero, those guys are out fighting wars, saving lives, making a difference. If there was a hero in this project it is everyone who donates to help see the dream come true. I have had donations big and small and everyone of them matter to me as much as the next one. The $2.20 donation is as cool as the $300. one.

Over on css.com in my RWD thread someone has accused me of having a great scam for getting quick money. Those who have been with me through this project know the truth and you also know that this has become 'our' car.

I will share this car with everyone that I can. I may have started this project by myself but I am finishing it with all of you. Without you guys & gals, this car would have died long ago. Everytime I get a word of encouragement, everytime a donation shows up, I perk up a bit more because I know that I am not alone in this dream.

Thank you all. :)

»