In learning how to be both of these, I have deduced and committed to a few things:
Business:
If business is first about money, growth, and the bottom dollar, I thing that is a sad thing indeed. I have found business to be an enjoyable thing, but the lure to sacrifice all for the dollar is a fierce struggle. I know my integrity is not worth any amount of money. I am a fan of small business, and I w
ant to run mine with full honesty and disclosure. I am not a success at business based on how much income I create, but on these: if I have provided for my family as God calls me to do, if I have loved my work and gone home tired at the end of the day, if I have dealt well with people and uplifted those around me, and if I have brought glory to God by my integrity and vigor. If I have done anything even the slightest bit sketchy or dishonest, let me know, that I make make amends. Craftsmanship:
The word "craftsman" is a rare word these days, though it is making a comeback. A craftsman is not a person who builds things, or one who can slap something together and make money. A craftsman is an artist, a skilled worker at his particular craft. A craftsman is someone you pay to do something that you can't do yourself. It is my goal to be a master craftsman in the field of woodworking, though I may never feel like I get there. Woodworking is an incredibly large field of skill and technique, and I continue to learn and practice in every area. My desire is to inspire the customer to think of great things, to push the limits of what wood can do (as many are currently doing), and to make peoples dreams reality, even in small pieces. It doesn't have to be epic proportions to be worthy of skill and excellence. At the Shop of The Hungry Saw, development, experimenting, and learning are always happening. There is a sign over the door that dedicates all things in the Shop to God. He will use the shop for His glory and purpose. I simply get to be a part of it. So if you choose The Hungry Saw, know this: you are a blessing from God to me, for the joy of my work and the provision of my family. I will strive for the utmost honesty and fairness in my business dealings. I will strive in my practiced skills to give you a finished piece that you and I are both fully pleased with. I will strive to learn, and to teach, as each are appropriate. Thank you for choosing The Hungry Saw
Soli Deo Gloria
