So, I'd have to say we missed my goal of getting the job done before lunch. But we did accomplish something much more important. We shared in a heartfelt victory party. And, most important, we made a memory, a bond, one of many that I hope will help cement our relationship in the turbulent teenage years that are ahead. Later that afternoon as we cut more wood, I thought about how so much of what passes for entertainment in today's world is solitary, lonely activity.
Video games are an obvious example.
Even if you play them with someone else you're not relating to each other while you play. You're attention is on the screen in front of you. After my experience cutting wood, I realized that the best way to relate to my family is to make something with them. And, to do it without expectations of performance. Making wood is my secret joy.