Today, happy 4th

In the shop I'm inlaying 27 boxes while out back folks are regrouting the flagstone patio, and playing ethnic music. I am thankful for skilled workers as we all could best be. How do we change things so that all would be afforded the dignity they deserve? Let's welcome all those who work to make the world and their own (for it is ours too) a better place.

Otto Salomon had suggested that the manual training Sloyd had two effects. One was economic in that it made us better workers. A second effect was formative, meaning that it had more general effects in making us more human. For that reason, it was offered to all people, including those going on to advance degrees, or jobs in religion or politics, for it would generate a respect for all labor, and sense to assess whether or not it was suitable work. As John Ruskin had said, Plane a plank or level a brick in its mortar and you'll have learn things that the lips of man could never tell. Though here, I'm making a feeble attempt  to tell.

Are you worried about the world? Do something about it. 

Make, fix and create...