At the end of each term, the students and I would gather around the front bench, and talk about life after school. We would talk about gathering the wood, tools, and machines, and all the bits and pieces that contribute to the work of an impractical cabinetmaker. I would read the final chapter of A Cabinetmakers Notebook, and in doing so, reaffirm my commitment to teaching and to our craft. The students and I would then honour the significant others in our lives who continue to carry the other end of the plank and support us in our work. 

Today I sit at the front bench alone, reflecting back on the nearly two decades of our small family operated craft school, which is now closed. In my morning yoga and meditation practice, two words frequent my thoughts, faith and gratitude. Faith, that if my health continues to improve, that perhaps one day, I might take on a student. And gratitude for my soulmate, and the so many people who contributed to and shared in our school’s history.

We continue to live a good, yet simple life. In the past I have used the words of James Krenov and John Brown to describe the aspirations, I have always had for our students. Today I would like to use the words of someone who remains dear to me, someone who has influenced so much more than my work. He and his wife Julie showed so many of us how to live a truly beautiful life. 

“Be happy in your work.”  – Michael Burns