When I Grow Up

I talked with my sister by phone this week. We had shared similar experiences recently.

My sister is one of the most resourceful people I know. She's been knitting and crocheting as long as I can remember. A few years ago, she learned to spin yarn. At that point I told her, "Next you'll be raising sheep."

Now she runs the whole process. She raises sheep and sheers them. She cleans and dyes the wool. She spins it into yarn. She knits it, and she also weaves.

She recently had a couple of her weavings accepted in a juried art exhibit. She's not only resourceful; she's good.

She told me about the compliments she had received from other exhibitors. These were people who have been spinning and weaving a long time, folks who were masters of the craft, and they took the time to tell her that they like her work. What a great feeling it is to receive praise and encouragement from people you respect!

Last week I attended a gathering of the Indianapolis Guitar Society for the first time. The IGS is a group of pickers that meets in one member's garage on a Sunday afternoon three or four times a year.

Comer "Moon" Mullens, a former national champion thumb-style guitarist, was the featured performer that day, but several folks took a turn at the mic. These were really good, experienced musicians. Some have toured and done extensive musical work.

I arrived late, so my "reward" was that my turn on the stool was immediately after Mr. Mullens. [Note: I have a new musical high point. It's the day that Moon Mullens opened for me.] Later, a few of the fine pickers paid me compliments like how cleanly I played. Now that will help a fellow keep practicing!

When I grow up, I want to be a respectable player. I would be nice to be the kind of guy who made folks wonder, "What was he like back in the day?" But more than that, I want to be the kind of player that can offer compliments, support and encouragement to the younger folks coming along behind me.

That would make life worthwhile.