It is interesting to work in a shop that is messy versus one that is clean. Even as I think of a very messy shop in California, I find myself reveling in a shop that is clean in Tennessee. Just a few days ago it was anything but! The difference was the work of a friend determined to make a difference. His work, patient and methodical, restored the shop to a clean working condition.
As I find myself working in a clean shop, I find the contrast interesting. There is no logic to what follows. In a chaotic shop, I tend to work by myself. I am not sure why. Perhaps it is as if I am going at my own pace. If I am stuck, I ask for help from another. The emphasis is on being solo. In a clean shop, I am open, soliciting, and curious. I want others to be involved. I am looking for their creative ideas. I am sure we can do more than I.
On reflection I realize that the key difference is not clean or chaos. The variable that has changed is one of sight. I can see the available tools, workspace, and the project. I realize that “what we have is one body with many parts, each its proper size and in its proper place. No part is important on its own.” (1 Corinthians 12.20) This realization opens the door for more, especially the input from others.
As others pitch in, the piece has taken on a life far more interesting than I imagined. The laminated walnut and maple stripes multiply. The shape takes a turn towards interesting. Whatever it may become, it is so much more because it others have been involved.
I am looking forward to tomorrow with more sanding, refinement, and a coat of orange oil. It will be an interesting piece of art. While I may get the credit, I will always see the prints of those that made a difference.
Thinking about it, the shop in California could use some cleaning and organizing.
