Wisdom for Those Concerned

Jack of all trades, master of none.

My Grandad’s resonating voice falls over me with a calming presence echoing this phrase over and over.  His master work ethic was a thing of marvel.  There was a way to do things right and patiently.  This man knew so many things it blew me away.  He knew all walks of life and experienced it all.  Worked with his hands and was incredibly sharp.

As I approach my return to civilization, I’ve been planning and preparing for reentry into society.  The mindless blanket mandatory “training” is only helpful for a select few.

I don’t want to work for anyone.  Take orders from yet another entity.  I don’t want my children to see their father take orders.  Regardless of stature, nobody has the right to control your life.

Take pride in your work.  Yet another phrase that echoes but this time with the voice of my father.  Am I proud to provide the means to someone else’s end?  Employment at will?  I’d be proud to have my own thing.

When I return, I’ll be setting up my first company.  Sure, I’ll start small.  Eventually I’ll be able to provide experiences to enrich the life of myself and the public.  Free reign on my future.  I’m not impressed by titles and certificates.  Rather, value brought to those in your presence.  Who’s better off because they find themselves in your company?

I have a plethora of ideas and can’t wait to get started.  Unfortunately, I still must wait a short while.  I feel my feet on the blocks, steady at the starting line.  Awaiting the crack of the starting pistol to release the demon waiting to wreak havoc.

I seek the knowledge of many different crafts and experiences.  Spending more time in nature.  More time with those I can impact positively.

I wish to document my new findings and endeavors to offer an insight into life lived otherwise.

The following are a few things I seek to learn and experience: 
Wood working, metal working, restoration, bushcraft, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, biking, health, longevity, exercise, travel, photography, sailing, and of course many others I’ll remember conveniently after I post this entry.

In some way, I’ve always known people that concern themselves with the interests listed above.  Never have I approached and asked to participate.   I look forward to finding solace in these activities.  Eventually I’d like to run an organization that offers these kinds of experiences and services.  Weekend getaways and retreat from life’s hard demands.  A place to go to clear the mind.

Offer the chance to associate with other walks of life and become a jack of all trades like my Grandad was.  He led a fulfilling and humble life of service to others.  I hope he knew I always kept his legacy alive within me.  He would do things as simple as returning the garbage pails from the end of his neighbor’s driveways for those less able than himself.  Stop by for a short afternoon teatime with his friends and family to check in.  Offer the wisdom gathered from all the experiences encapsulating his existence.  I still remember helping him mind the garden people would travel for miles to come see.  He did all these things among countless others without seeking recognition.

Boy, do I miss the days out in Scotland experiencing life the Grandad way.  The walks out in town, golfing and time at the 19^th hole, hiking the countryside to go fly fishing on a loch, walking the old ruins of castles, trips out to lighthouses and small teahouses.  Experiences too many to count and place on this page to do his memory justice.

What do I want to do when I return?

Everything.

Jack of all trades.

Master of none.