The last two or three days, I’ve done some things I rarely do and that I’m not good at. I’m on a study break and I’ve had a visit from my daughter’s boyfriend who’s staying with us for a few days. The difference between us is that he’s handy and knows how to fix just about everything and well… I’m not.
So as I’ve been studying in the mornings and popping in and out of the office to get some things done, we’ve been working on some projects together around the house. We’ve done some electrical things like replacing lights that didn’t work, and fixing a sprinkler system valve head that was gushing out water. We went to Home Depot at least two or three times and finally got it fixed. There were some repairs on the roof along with some areas that needed to be patched and painted—all areas in which I have no expertise. But I do have to say it was really a lot of fun. Just having someone else in charge who knew what they were doing allowed my mind to completely shut off from what I normally think about; it was really encouraging. I don’t think you need to hear any more details about my “fix it” jobs around the house, but I did learn a few things:
1. You really get to know someone a lot better working with them and trying to accomplish something bigger than yourselves than you do by just sitting around a table talking.
2. Learning is fun; never stop learning—especially in areas that you don’t know much about. I was fascinated and amazed at some of the tools that are out there and just how things work.
3. God certainly has gifted all of us quite differently. What was so simple for this young man was completely overwhelming for me.
4. It’s good to get out of your area of expertise or work and let your mind completely shut off and do some things that are not part of your normal routine. It informs you and causes you to look at the world in a completely different way.
So try something different this week. Get with a friend or family member and do something you normally wouldn’t do. Maybe you’ll discover some of the same lessons I did while working around the house.
Keep Pressin’ Ahead—Chip
The desire to learn and grow is something I also feel strongly about. I beleive that embracing that desire early in life and submission to the Lord's will can have a huge compounding effect in the life of a person.
Daniel Del Real
DelRealProperty.com
Posted by: Daniel Del Real | June 22, 2007 at 01:52 PM
Great piece.
I am horrible at doing odd-jobs as well. Sports and academics are no problem; but any "fix its" around the house that aren't elementary are out of my comfort zone.
It is a great testimony that you teamed up with this guy and got out of your comfort zone.
Now the pressure is on me to do the same.
Posted by: NCApologist | June 21, 2007 at 06:39 AM
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God Speed,
Phil Smith
Posted by: Philip Smith | June 20, 2007 at 08:53 AM