I am lucky that I live 6 blocks from work. I have often thought about how many times I have walked or ridden my bike those 6 blocks in the past 40 years. It is a perfect break and gives me time to reflect on my life.
One day this thought came to me as I walked home from a very fulfilling day at the bench:
A strong man knows when to quit.
A great man goes beyond what is possible.
A wise man knows his limits, paces himself, and realizes his full potential in the time he has been given.
It is curious how the mind works. I am not a poet, but I often reflect on how words can create ideas. I enjoy writing, and part of the meaning of the above thought for me is that I need to start working on my book. This blog has given me purpose, and I hope others see in it something of value.
For years I watched Roy Underhill perform on his famous show, The Woodwright's Shop on PBS. I was impressed with his style and his knowledge of the trades, as well as his passion for life. When he asked me to participate in his show in 2008, I was honored. Working with Roy reinforced my opinion as to what a great man he was. We became close friends, and when he announced the opening of his school earlier this year, I sent him a "woodworker's toast."
May Your Chisel Rest Sharp.
May Your Saw Stay Straight.
May Your Plane Prove True.
And
May Your Feet Rest On Shavings
All The Days Of Your Work.
I ask all woodworkers who have been enthused by watching Roy over the years to contact him and tell him how important his work has been. He deserves it.
5 comments:
Agreed, I'm a huge fan of Roy. What was the name of the episode you were on?
Roy and I worked together in season 2008. The episode was named "Marquetry Master Patrick Edwards." It was not my idea; Roy named it.
Working with Roy was amazing. We taped the show 6 times, and each time either Roy or I would suggest little improvements. It took 2 days. We finally got it right, and even though we cracked the same jokes 7 times it still sounds spontaneous when you watch it.
Check out Roy's new hand tool school.
Thanks for commenting.
I have a copy of the VHS that was purchased from PBS. Unfortunately it is no longer available. The episode is Season 20, Episode 8 and was aired in 2000. I used this video several times in presentations on marquetry for the Northeastern Woodworkers Association as a lecturer at our "Woodworkers Showcase" woodworking show in Saratoga Springs. The video was far better than any of the photos and arm waving I could muster. I will get it transferred to DVD one of these days.
Roy was a presenter at Showcase a few years ago. He is capable, affable, and draws a great crowd!
Chuck Walker
I have DVD's available of this episode for sale. Roy donated them to the school years ago, and the proceeds go to support the American School of French Marquetry. I will ship a copy post paid anywhere in the US for $25, payable to "ASFM."
It is a fantastic episode. Roy and I play "good cop, bad cop" really well. The question is who is which?
Patrick
If you still have dvd’s available, I would like to purchase. Thanks, Fred
vanetten@yahoo.com
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