There are things that do not need an explanation. How This stranger Magnetism that public work has for pensionersThe field is enough for a trench, a mechanical shovel or an operator that appears, so that a little little, they begin to arrive. They are located nearby, silent or with a critical commentary, with their hands in a jug or crusaders on their chests, sometimes behind them, and a fixed look, as if they were controlled by a surgical operation.
IN WillantA small city north of Milan is a phenomenon, as common as universal, took a step: The city council decided to “professionalize” this hobbyMaking this voluntary civil service. From this moment, a group of pensioners participates in rotating shifts for two hours a day to control public work, prevent possible failures or violations and, above all, introduces its valuable experience. They do not receive salaries, but institutional recognition and accidents insurance.
“How do you see tiles? Are they not a little high? “
The scene can be repeated in any corner of Spain. Jose, one of the usual in the Madrid district of Moratalaz, comes in a timely manner every morning. “Even if it is only five minutes, I have to look at”speaks. Paco, another veteran, analyzes the rhythm of work with a critical look: “Look at the taps … they are fine.”
The conversation between them flows with a mixture of technical analysis and partnership. “How is work, boss?” “Well, so good”The operator replies as if he was talking with another master.
Among the workers, they already have a name for them: “Los Vigilantes”, “Los Controladores”Their field is not for obligations, but for something more difficult to determine. For nostalgia, by vocation, for this impulse to continue to feel useful.
“It reminds me of my time”Eduardo admits. “I distract me, I say that I think it’s right and what is wrong … even if they ignore me,” adds Alfonso. “I loveThe field is a mistake that I have to see how they work now, when we are retired, ”says Jose with a smile that generalizes everything.
Barrier … for the official role
The fact that in other cities it can be considered as curiosity or even nuisance, in Villasant, this has become a policy of participating in municipal citizens. Pensioners who are registered as “civilian volunteers” receive identification, legal coating and schedule. And even if they do not make decisions or have powers, operators already consider them part of the landscape … and almost a team.
“Yesterday I started a tree, and this man expressed his opinion all the time,” says Diego, one of the workers. “They tell you where to put the fence … and You must listen to them, because if not, they do not leave“The other laughs.
Sometimes your comments laugh: “Eight uncles and one work!” But there is experience behind every joke. Many of them worked in this sector: Masons, electricians, plumbing, equipmentThe field and although they no longer process the tools, they retain a sharp look.
“You must listen to what they say to you, especially the elderly, that They have more experience than ours“The young operator recognizes.
An idea that could be exported
The initiative of the city council not only improved the environment around the work. It also strengthened the sense of community. “This is our area”Says Fernando. “And if there are failures, we must say that. It is also our house. ”
In addition to jokes, Villasanta found a way to integrate their elders into public life in active, useful and emotionally significant. This offers them a role, routine, a small duty. Because, as summarized, one of the operators: “Someday, I will also come here to see them after me”Field
And who knows … Maybe he also crosses his handsIn silence, observe: “This is not very good.”
