As woodworkers, we all know and understand the value of working with our hands. But not everyone does. So it was refreshing to see an article in the New York Times on its importance. It’s written by a former political philosopher who has taken up motorcycle repair. Some of what he has to say might sound familiar if you’re read Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintainence.

And if you need more encouragement to give the article a read, then consider that the author had the good wisdom to quote none other than furniture and box maker Doug Stowe in the opening paragraphs. Although he isn’t mentioned by name, it’s still him. Look for the “shop teacher” quoted in the sixth paragraph. Click the link and you’ll be taken to Doug’s very good blog “Wisdom of the Hands.”

Give Doug’s blog, and the article a good read. As rewarding as woodworking is, there’s no harm in occasionally stepping back and thinking about what it is we do.