Great perspective, and it reminds me of a great book on the tension between grit and quitting - "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away," by Annie Duke. She makes a case that we often stick with stuff longer than we should (i.e. corporate jobs). Definitely worth a read. But as someone learning a new musical instrument right now in middle age, I realize that an essential part of growth is continuing well beyond boredom and frustration, and insisting on finding a way to get yourself to do it.
I saw a young girl with only just part of right arm. Her love of woodworking was amazing. She did use a hand saw. With the help of her brother to hold a piece of wood or help place a clamp. She never gave up. When I make stupid mistakes I remember what she must be going through. It makes stupid errors l make more an opportunity for change. Not to get upset.
I was in the saw making class with Michael. I remember how almost everyone at some point offered to “help” him. He very politely but firmly said “thanks, but not thanks “.
"Stubbornness and a little luck will get you farther in life than brains, any day of the week". That was from my very smart dad, a life lesson to be sure.
Woodworking may be conducive to a happier, longer life.
I remember this blog entry Chris. Thanks for the update on the real human spirit.
Chris, if you can let Michael know about Plane Wellness. He may like some of the courses we offer and they would be free for him!
Great perspective, and it reminds me of a great book on the tension between grit and quitting - "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away," by Annie Duke. She makes a case that we often stick with stuff longer than we should (i.e. corporate jobs). Definitely worth a read. But as someone learning a new musical instrument right now in middle age, I realize that an essential part of growth is continuing well beyond boredom and frustration, and insisting on finding a way to get yourself to do it.
Woodworking has such a profound, positive impact on the psyche, I understand his stubbornness! Thank you for sharing!
I so needed to read this today as second thoughts about this chosen journey have crept into my head and won't go away.
Thank you for deciding to share this story today.
I saw a young girl with only just part of right arm. Her love of woodworking was amazing. She did use a hand saw. With the help of her brother to hold a piece of wood or help place a clamp. She never gave up. When I make stupid mistakes I remember what she must be going through. It makes stupid errors l make more an opportunity for change. Not to get upset.
This got me unexpectedly choked up.
My wife has determined that my stubbornness is one of my least desirable qualities.
I’ll have her read this later.
Good word. He is an inspiring person.
Wonderful story. Thank you and congratulations to Michael.
Cheers.
Beautiful stuff, thanks for sharing this.
All these years I thought I was just stupid.
Now I can say I’m stubborn!
What an inspiring story.
I was in the saw making class with Michael. I remember how almost everyone at some point offered to “help” him. He very politely but firmly said “thanks, but not thanks “.
Very inspiring. That's also good reminder for me to not wait until retirement to start doing the things I want to do.
"Stubbornness and a little luck will get you farther in life than brains, any day of the week". That was from my very smart dad, a life lesson to be sure.