Earlier this week, I was invited to a political rally for one of Iowa’s state candidates. This is not typically something I would attend, but the request came from a person whom I respect and like, so off I went to the rally. I must say, what I expected and what actually occurred were two completely different things. I expected a loud, cheering crowd and what actually presented itself was the candidate sitting down with twelve of us. It was a very interesting conversation, one that made me think about those days when politics worked; but those are thoughts for another time and a different article.
Anyway, when the rally was over, I had an opportunity to speak with a man I know only in passing. Our businesses intersect and I know very little about him personally. I do know, however, that woodworking is his hobby. I asked him what he had been working on lately and he told me that since his children had gotten older he really didn’t have much time to spend in his shop.
Then, the miracle happened.
His face brightened as he began to tell me about his weekend. One of his daughters had asked if they could make a birdhouse together, so they had gone to the shop to do just that. It was obvious in his face and the inflection of his voice that time in the shop with his daughter had been joyous. As we talked about the project, thoughts of times with my children in the shop washed over me, bringing a flood of emotions.
This is one of the things seldom talked about in woodworking - connections. There are connections you make with your family and friends as well to others who work in the hobby. Our hobbies are one way we humans truly connect, in a time when many of our connections to the world seem superficial. A speaker I heard a few weeks ago said your passion is the thing that you have insight about. I believe him. When you talk to others who are truly passionate about woodworking, you discover they have come up with solutions and plans that are often inspired and many times surprising, even to them. These are true signs of passion.It should be obvious that one of my true passions is woodworking. As you finish reading this, I hope you identify your own personal passion; something that brightens your face when you talk about it, something that creates a fire in your belly. I encourage you to do more with it.
Today I am inspired to do something more with my passion. I hope you find inspiration to pursue yours.
Have a miraculous day.
