Hey Jed, here to say I love what you write. That's been true since years ago when I came upon something you had written, and I was all in for all the words then, and all the words to come. To me the value of that feeling inside my heart/mind/body holds more value than many things including "more money." I have more than I need and when able, my husband and I give away money to organizations and people who have unmet needs that are important to meet. Have you read "Shop Class is Soul Craft". I just learned about it, and have ordered it for an upcoming read. I think it speaks specifically to what you mention about Japan. In the meantime, I send you every good wish wrapped in love. xo
I have seen that book before but never read it! I’ll pick it up. Karen… you’ve been a support to me and my writing since the fledgling crack of anything. I’m so lucky to know you. Truly you bless.
You know how much I have always loved you Jed. You are a magical human, a bit angelic with a side of something else entirely, your words are a deep resounding beautiful comfort. That we met back online and then at the DO is a highlight of my life, truly. You, and a handful of other people all so generous, wise, and loving, and a few writers particularly (Kelly Corrigan, Maggie Doyne, Joyce Maynard, Louis Zamperini, Miki Agrawal, Liz Gilbert, Glennon Doyle, and more) have filled my heart, made me think, enriched and broadened my understanding & perspectives. I root for you always, and love you forever. xx
Great piece, Jed. Like one of the commenters, I recently started reading “Shop Class as Soulcraft” by Matthew B. Crawford (published shortly after the economic downturn in 2008). The focus is indeed on craftsmanship and how America has been gradually looking down its nose at the trades and the talented people who work in them. The description on the back cover says it best: “Shopclass” rouses us from the passivity and dependence of consumer culture with a bracing call for self reliance.” Finding the book a bit slow as it is densely packed with research and references, but I am soaking it up with a smile. This topic is closely tied, obviously, to our relationship with money and what we choose to do with it.
“Cultivate taste, not luxury.” This is good. or, gold. Both work. I love the focus on craftsmanship and quality as a goal in and of itself, not a means to a financial end in Japan. How incredible refreshing and different than the hustle and strive for more culture here.
This is fabulous! Thank you for the reminder that money is meant meet human needs (food, shelter, medical care, car, school, etc) and not to be worshipped. Money can’t comfort in the loss of a loved one or share a beautiful sunset or laugh in a game of scrabble. When is enough, enough? More, bigger, and keeping up with wealthy socialites are slave masters.
Walking out the door to work with a better sense of clarity this morning thanks to this
Hey Jed, here to say I love what you write. That's been true since years ago when I came upon something you had written, and I was all in for all the words then, and all the words to come. To me the value of that feeling inside my heart/mind/body holds more value than many things including "more money." I have more than I need and when able, my husband and I give away money to organizations and people who have unmet needs that are important to meet. Have you read "Shop Class is Soul Craft". I just learned about it, and have ordered it for an upcoming read. I think it speaks specifically to what you mention about Japan. In the meantime, I send you every good wish wrapped in love. xo
I have seen that book before but never read it! I’ll pick it up. Karen… you’ve been a support to me and my writing since the fledgling crack of anything. I’m so lucky to know you. Truly you bless.
You know how much I have always loved you Jed. You are a magical human, a bit angelic with a side of something else entirely, your words are a deep resounding beautiful comfort. That we met back online and then at the DO is a highlight of my life, truly. You, and a handful of other people all so generous, wise, and loving, and a few writers particularly (Kelly Corrigan, Maggie Doyne, Joyce Maynard, Louis Zamperini, Miki Agrawal, Liz Gilbert, Glennon Doyle, and more) have filled my heart, made me think, enriched and broadened my understanding & perspectives. I root for you always, and love you forever. xx
Great piece, Jed. Like one of the commenters, I recently started reading “Shop Class as Soulcraft” by Matthew B. Crawford (published shortly after the economic downturn in 2008). The focus is indeed on craftsmanship and how America has been gradually looking down its nose at the trades and the talented people who work in them. The description on the back cover says it best: “Shopclass” rouses us from the passivity and dependence of consumer culture with a bracing call for self reliance.” Finding the book a bit slow as it is densely packed with research and references, but I am soaking it up with a smile. This topic is closely tied, obviously, to our relationship with money and what we choose to do with it.
Definitely getting this book. 💕
“Cultivate taste, not luxury.” This is good. or, gold. Both work. I love the focus on craftsmanship and quality as a goal in and of itself, not a means to a financial end in Japan. How incredible refreshing and different than the hustle and strive for more culture here.
This is fabulous! Thank you for the reminder that money is meant meet human needs (food, shelter, medical care, car, school, etc) and not to be worshipped. Money can’t comfort in the loss of a loved one or share a beautiful sunset or laugh in a game of scrabble. When is enough, enough? More, bigger, and keeping up with wealthy socialites are slave masters.