I've met Mr and Mrs Iowabow and their wonderful son. They are kind beyond words, generous and trusting, and best of all genuine people. Gold ore is worthless until it is drawn thru a fire to refine it, to burn off the dross. Other things when drawn thru the fire burn up and leave bitter and caustic ash. With us people, it depends on where our hearts lie and where we put our efforts. John's heart was good and he came out of this like Job in the Old Testament, blessed.
LIke him, I've seen my share of misery. I lived in the oil patch in North Dakota when it went bust. I was out of work, 19 yrs old, no skills, and nothing to make me stand out in an area with 25% unemployment. I dumpster dived and ate other people's trash, seasoned with a large dose of humility. Oddly, I am proud of making rent every month and keeping alive despite what I had to do to make it. I didn't turn to crime or whine about how unfair it was. I knew it was fair.
Since then I have worn custom tailored suits and have been reduced to eating wild game and foraging for native plants to stay alive. It's all the same to me. Heck, I think I am one of the luckiest people in the world because I had 5 dreams when I was a kid in high school. I have acheived 4 of those dreams. All that is left is to go to Antarctica.
Iowabow, I consider you to be someone I could do well to emulate. I love the way you gently encourage and inspire.
Mr Wirwicki, I believe in you. Anyone that makes bows like you do has the grit and gumption to stick to it. Anyone that hires you is lucky to have you. Mr. Krewson, bonus points to you for sticking by your wofe for 30 years and seeing her thru this cancer.
Thank you everyone, for your friendship and your inspiration. Adversity allows us to show our best character.
