It's hard trying to reinvent yourself in your 50's, especially after leaving a profession that you still love.
I've done a lot, learned a lot and want to learn even more but I know I have to slow down and focus my efforts and energy more efficiently and more selectively.
There are skilled activities that I can continue for the rest of my life but in trying to identify with one field I was still left with a handful to choose from. The economy killed off one so the decision wasn't mine. At least I can return and use my quality tone woods and acquired knowledge if that market ever returns.
About 8 years ago I started forging metal. Later, I spent four days with a skilled man and learned the foundation of proper techniques at the anvil. It still took me years to get comfortable and accurate to a level that I felt was proper but still pretty fundamental.
Most importantly though, I read and learned how to filter information from knife makers who willingly gave their secrets to all. I visited many "name" makers and spoke to so many established and incredibly talented craftsman and never...never felt like I was rushed, wasting their time or too insignificant to talk to. To the contrary I was welcomed, invited and encouraged.
In my primary profession this doesn't exist. In some of my other activities there is a veil of mistrust and secrecy. In this field all I encounter is hard working congenial people who honestly want to help others achieve. I have been fortunate to have pursued this field.
I know there are battles here and there but overall, people who choose this profession just seem to be grounded and tuned in to others...not aloof as is commonly seen in other skilled professions.
I am a member of the Idaho knife Association and find that instead of me giving too much of myself and helping others, I find myself in debt to others. This is an uncomfortable feeling but I'm sure it will balance out.
Now I've joined the ABS. I joined not so much for professional gain as I did as a gesture of gratitude to all the established giving members of that society.
Perhaps someday I will be the one helping the new guy make gains but at present all I can say is thank you...to all of you. This is a great tradition, skill, profession with no endpoint that I can see when it comes to learning. This and good people gives me satisfaction with my decision.
Regards,
Dean Lapinel
I've done a lot, learned a lot and want to learn even more but I know I have to slow down and focus my efforts and energy more efficiently and more selectively.
There are skilled activities that I can continue for the rest of my life but in trying to identify with one field I was still left with a handful to choose from. The economy killed off one so the decision wasn't mine. At least I can return and use my quality tone woods and acquired knowledge if that market ever returns.
About 8 years ago I started forging metal. Later, I spent four days with a skilled man and learned the foundation of proper techniques at the anvil. It still took me years to get comfortable and accurate to a level that I felt was proper but still pretty fundamental.
Most importantly though, I read and learned how to filter information from knife makers who willingly gave their secrets to all. I visited many "name" makers and spoke to so many established and incredibly talented craftsman and never...never felt like I was rushed, wasting their time or too insignificant to talk to. To the contrary I was welcomed, invited and encouraged.
In my primary profession this doesn't exist. In some of my other activities there is a veil of mistrust and secrecy. In this field all I encounter is hard working congenial people who honestly want to help others achieve. I have been fortunate to have pursued this field.
I know there are battles here and there but overall, people who choose this profession just seem to be grounded and tuned in to others...not aloof as is commonly seen in other skilled professions.
I am a member of the Idaho knife Association and find that instead of me giving too much of myself and helping others, I find myself in debt to others. This is an uncomfortable feeling but I'm sure it will balance out.
Now I've joined the ABS. I joined not so much for professional gain as I did as a gesture of gratitude to all the established giving members of that society.
Perhaps someday I will be the one helping the new guy make gains but at present all I can say is thank you...to all of you. This is a great tradition, skill, profession with no endpoint that I can see when it comes to learning. This and good people gives me satisfaction with my decision.
Regards,
Dean Lapinel
