Thank you, Janice, for this centering post. I consider myself beyond fortunate to have few human adversaries in my life (most of us can identify one or two, right?) and I'm aware that, comparatively, I lead a life of privilege. To be gainfully employed doing work I believe is of value for others, to be able to plunk away on a computer from the safety of my home, that my home is situated in a place not imperiled by war or active civil unrest, to have friends and family who care about me -- it's all too easy to take those things for granted, but I try not to. I'm less reliably grateful when it comes to challenges and heartaches that test my foundations, even though I know that good can come from those experiences as well. (One of my favorite expressions: "Great. Another [redacted] growth opportunity...!"
Thank you for introducing me to Sam VanNest. I feel like our paths have crossed in the past, but if so the memory is thin. I did a bit of online searching and see some of his writings are out there to be enjoyed. Powerful perspective!
Maybe you already know that when we came to "these parts," we didn't expect to stay. Whether it's the energy of the people or the place, or some of each, I'm convinced there is a magnetism here that is itself powerful.
I'm thankful you came into my world this year, Elizabeth! Truly. Another blessing and a growth opp without the sarcasm....We have both subscribers and, I do believe, many traits in common. Paths do cross for a reason, just like mine and Sam's. He is the MOST skilled I have read at the local colloquialisms. Perfect Tilghman Island and vicinity. And the stories to go with them. Brilliant voice for certain.
We never do know where we'll end up, do we? Physically or metaphorically! lol.
Have an absolutely delightful holiday yourself! Best to your fab carpenter.
Having been crewing on sailboats since 1975 (deckhand/mate/engineer/captain), I have sparred with many an obstacle, but the last, and worst, was the Vetus diesel on 94' ketch "Odyssey". She had a good ol' reliable Detroit Diesel 6-71, but after a 5 year circumnavigation (she was engaged in sperm whale research) it needed a total rebuild. The office got an offer of a brand new Vetus diesel, about the same horsepower, for half price, so the Detroit was pulled and the Vetus put in. What a mistake! It was the most stupidest designed engine. Rudolf Diesel would have whacked the designers in the head with a pipe wrench, saying "What idiots designed this!?". It was more fuel efficient, smaller, and quieter than the Detroit, plusses there, but assinine to work on. I spent many an hour on that thing. Parts had to be ordered from Amsterdam, no mechanic was familiar with a Vetus engine. Constant overheating problems no one could figure out. Difficult to get to unprotected starter relay located right below a water hose, the slightest leak puts it out of commission. (I put in a JFS switch in the pilothouse). "What's a JFS switch you ask? It's a "Just Fucking Start" push button switch. Several years later the office told me "We should have stayed with the Detroit".
Adversaries come in many forms! We have a 1980 4-71 in our girl. Love that big green machine. Just talking of a backup starter so will share JFS with my own captain.! Thanks for the story, much appreciated. Happy Thanksgiving! J
What Sam VanNest is "sparring" with and how you were able to convey his life's story is rich in how His Lord and Creator is involved, touching other lives in ways that you and I could never achieve. On October 10th it was discovered that I had some serious cardiac artery blockages.
My disease damage is repairable with surgery and some diet changes; Sam's not so. His courage and commitment to using his time to reach others is a strength I can only hope I would have.
May God continue to bless Sam with His Peace that surpasses all understanding.
Always meaningful to hear from you Winston and you're in my prayers as you heal. I'm sorry for the struggle.
Sam is a teacher as well and so conveys his God-given talents and strength in many ways. An inspiration to many. Undoubtedly people pass into and out of our lives for reasons we cannot always appreciate. I'm thankful for you.
Thank you very much Jen. It's a busy rushing world and we lose track, sometimes of what's important. A common theme perhaps, but I know I needed the reminder. Enjoy the holiday! J
I spar with old age, but grateful for wonderful memories!
I’m thankful for the chance to spend the time with my family over the next couple days and I’m thankful for puppies.
I absolutely agree on all counts. framily, in my case!
Thank you, Janice, for this centering post. I consider myself beyond fortunate to have few human adversaries in my life (most of us can identify one or two, right?) and I'm aware that, comparatively, I lead a life of privilege. To be gainfully employed doing work I believe is of value for others, to be able to plunk away on a computer from the safety of my home, that my home is situated in a place not imperiled by war or active civil unrest, to have friends and family who care about me -- it's all too easy to take those things for granted, but I try not to. I'm less reliably grateful when it comes to challenges and heartaches that test my foundations, even though I know that good can come from those experiences as well. (One of my favorite expressions: "Great. Another [redacted] growth opportunity...!"
Thank you for introducing me to Sam VanNest. I feel like our paths have crossed in the past, but if so the memory is thin. I did a bit of online searching and see some of his writings are out there to be enjoyed. Powerful perspective!
Maybe you already know that when we came to "these parts," we didn't expect to stay. Whether it's the energy of the people or the place, or some of each, I'm convinced there is a magnetism here that is itself powerful.
Enjoy your holiday!
And yes, I confess, there have been a few worthy adversaries along my path....strong women have been known to, well, you know... J
I'm thankful you came into my world this year, Elizabeth! Truly. Another blessing and a growth opp without the sarcasm....We have both subscribers and, I do believe, many traits in common. Paths do cross for a reason, just like mine and Sam's. He is the MOST skilled I have read at the local colloquialisms. Perfect Tilghman Island and vicinity. And the stories to go with them. Brilliant voice for certain.
We never do know where we'll end up, do we? Physically or metaphorically! lol.
Have an absolutely delightful holiday yourself! Best to your fab carpenter.
J
Having been crewing on sailboats since 1975 (deckhand/mate/engineer/captain), I have sparred with many an obstacle, but the last, and worst, was the Vetus diesel on 94' ketch "Odyssey". She had a good ol' reliable Detroit Diesel 6-71, but after a 5 year circumnavigation (she was engaged in sperm whale research) it needed a total rebuild. The office got an offer of a brand new Vetus diesel, about the same horsepower, for half price, so the Detroit was pulled and the Vetus put in. What a mistake! It was the most stupidest designed engine. Rudolf Diesel would have whacked the designers in the head with a pipe wrench, saying "What idiots designed this!?". It was more fuel efficient, smaller, and quieter than the Detroit, plusses there, but assinine to work on. I spent many an hour on that thing. Parts had to be ordered from Amsterdam, no mechanic was familiar with a Vetus engine. Constant overheating problems no one could figure out. Difficult to get to unprotected starter relay located right below a water hose, the slightest leak puts it out of commission. (I put in a JFS switch in the pilothouse). "What's a JFS switch you ask? It's a "Just Fucking Start" push button switch. Several years later the office told me "We should have stayed with the Detroit".
Adversaries come in many forms! We have a 1980 4-71 in our girl. Love that big green machine. Just talking of a backup starter so will share JFS with my own captain.! Thanks for the story, much appreciated. Happy Thanksgiving! J
Janice, with much gratitude,
Switter.
What Sam VanNest is "sparring" with and how you were able to convey his life's story is rich in how His Lord and Creator is involved, touching other lives in ways that you and I could never achieve. On October 10th it was discovered that I had some serious cardiac artery blockages.
My disease damage is repairable with surgery and some diet changes; Sam's not so. His courage and commitment to using his time to reach others is a strength I can only hope I would have.
May God continue to bless Sam with His Peace that surpasses all understanding.
Always meaningful to hear from you Winston and you're in my prayers as you heal. I'm sorry for the struggle.
Sam is a teacher as well and so conveys his God-given talents and strength in many ways. An inspiration to many. Undoubtedly people pass into and out of our lives for reasons we cannot always appreciate. I'm thankful for you.
J
Beautifully written Janice..sweet gratitude & gratefulness.
Thank you very much Jen. It's a busy rushing world and we lose track, sometimes of what's important. A common theme perhaps, but I know I needed the reminder. Enjoy the holiday! J
You too!
Grateful to be friends for 40yrs+ with you 🍻🙏😎 Have a blessed thanksgiving 🍁⛵️