A Master Craftsman
- At May 21, 2018
- By Write in Community
- In Blog
9
The following essay is a salute to my father and to all fathers who make a positive difference in their children’s lives.
Although my father was a private person, his beliefs were evident in how he treated the earth as if it were holy, and the many ways he applied the wisdom of nature to his life. He didn’t just think about how he valued the planet, he lived out that basic precept in the activities of each day, his life exemplifying what he believed. Coming from the old school of farming, he knew that all things mattered.
I don’t remember if I ever heard him say that everything is connected—that even a stone has a presence—but I saw it in the way he paid attention to the changing moisture in the soil, the symmetry of the terraces he carved. And in the gentle way he cupped the amber seeds he planted. These were his meditations. Wherever he went, he carried with him what he learned about honoring the earth.
For over fifty years, Dad worked the land, keeping his family afloat when times were rough. Like many farmers that had to make do, he used his imagination–rigging baling wire, sheet metal and assorted pipes to repair equipment. Using the same method to mend gates and outbuildings. Everything was recycled. He figured out how to use an old sundial, re-purposed a leaky bucket into a watering can, a discarded mailbox into a tool shelf, and before it was fashionable, found creative ways to collect rain water.
Thinking, creating and making thoughtful choices were his modus operandi. He accepted the infinite capacities of the universe, and yet, acknowledging a bigger truth, possessed the insight to realize his own finiteness. Once he said that “this land is not mine, not yours. We are only passing through.” Another afternoon, as dark clouds gathered in the west, he told me, “This is our time. We better learn how to take care of this earth, or we won’t have it for long.”
That moment we both turned and looked in appreciation at the ripe corn fields. Gold spreading like gospel before us. Stitches of fine, yellow threads connecting green quilt blocks of land. Every spring Dad looked forward to reweaving the fields. He was, after all, a master craftsman, contributing to the makings of the universe. – Becky
Marge Saiser
This is a fine tribute to a man, and also a statement of what is/was so fine about his reliable consistent truthful passionate generation. American values we do well to be reminded of.
Michael Stinson
Your father would be pleased to hear such a sound, respectful homage to his life and the values he held prominent. He done good!
And kudos to you for utilizing your talent as a writer to share his legacy.
Peg Carpenter
A wonderful tribute to your father! The farmers of that age were very special!
Mary K Stillwell
Thank you, Becky. My stepfather was a lot like your dad. He taught me a new way to be in the world and it sounds like your dad did too.
Lin Brummels
The description of your father pretty well describes my dad. He went to great trouble to create terraces, and farm with the contours of the land. In recognition of his efforts he received a conservation award. I’ve lost the newspaper clipping of the award, but know he was proud his work was recognized. Thanks for bringing back that memory.
Charlene Neely
What a wonderful tribute to your father. He sounds like a wise man and he raised a beautiful and wise daughter.
Brian Breed
Becky,
I’m moved to respond. You have a knack for affecting me that way. Amazing Dad. Beautifully written. Clear memories. Deep meaning. You’ve reminded me of a lyric I often recall: “How do you know what you know?” Your salute paints a rich picture of you and your dad, living and learning together. Thank you for your masterful bounty of insight and perspective.
Always,
Brian
Monica Breed
I love the image of Grandpa reweaving the fields, their fine, yellow threads and green quilt blocks. It’s perfect for right now as craftsman everywhere lay down their crops and garden seeds. Grandpa’s meditations in nature are mine too.Thanks for capturing his essence with your words, mom.
Nesha
Becky: this is a beautiful tribute to your father and all men and women who love the land. Your love is obvious and heartwarming to your readers. Thank you for sharing.